Wildwood State Park Campground provides traditional and yurt camping near Kings Park, New York, located along the Long Island Sound. The park spans 600 acres of hardwood forest with campsites positioned on varying terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler nights that often require additional layers.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: Wildwood State Park features multiple hiking paths through forest terrain leading to the Long Island Sound. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," explains one Wildwood State Park camper.
Wildlife observation: Mountain Lakes Park offers opportunities to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," notes a Mountain Lakes Park visitor.
Water recreation: Indian Island County Park provides access to water activities including kayaking from easily accessible launch points. "The beach was within walking distance, lots of little trails, and plenty of activities for the whole family. The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot," according to a camper who stayed at Indian Island County Park.
What campers like
Beach access: Smith Point County Park campsites offer direct access to ocean shores. "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," shares a visitor at Smith Point County Park.
Proximity to local attractions: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. "I've been there during a full on thunderstorm and watched as the trees swayed in the wind. Lovely campground with lots of activities to entertain you," notes a Wildwood State Park camper who mentioned visiting the nearby Splish Splash waterpark.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently highlight well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms and showers were a big size. Rangers were driving around often but had no issues with drink in red cups," comments a visitor about Indian Island County Park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Many Long Island campgrounds feature varied site layouts and privacy levels. "It's a fun campground, has a great beach & great bathroom facilities. It doesn't have that much of the camping feel, though, as there's not many trees in the campsite area and the sites are so close together," advises a Wildwood camper.
Fire pit policies: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings as standard amenities. "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there," notes a visitor at Indian Island County Park.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternative accommodations, yurts are available at select locations. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain Lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in," shares a Riverdale Farm Campsites visitor about yurt camping near Kings Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreational areas specifically designed for children. "A great place to stay. Lots of friends and family. Very clean and has a lot of activity," notes a Riverdale Farm Campsites visitor.
Swimming options: Water features range from ocean beaches to small ponds suitable for family swimming. "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this is an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice," shares another Riverdale visitor.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs and wildlife viewing add educational value to family camping trips. "Great Value and Nice Family owned business. They did a show on the beach one night that was fun too. We did bingo too," mentions a camper about structured activities at Riverdale.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Utility options vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering full hookups. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," notes a camper at Wildwood State Park.
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "Sites were level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. No sewers sites that I could tell, and water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening," advises a visitor at Collective Governors Island about seasonal considerations for yurt camping near Kings Park.
Seasonal restrictions: Operating schedules impact available services throughout the year. "Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving (2 night visit) and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there," shares an RVer about off-season camping limitations.