RV camping near Lakeview, New York presents unique challenges for accessing key destinations. Long Island's proximity to the coast affects camping options, with sites generally open from April through November. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while spring and fall bring 50-65°F conditions, requiring different preparation approaches depending on timing.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides an uncommon opportunity for bow hunters or target practice enthusiasts with hay barrel targets. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," notes Patrick M. about this Turkey Swamp Park activity.
Beach swimming access: Nickerson Beach Park Campground offers direct beach entry for swimmers during summer months. "They recently installed a path that goes all the way down to the beach area so you don't have to walk on the sand for so long. There is also fantastic food in the area as well," explains Ethan K. about the Nickerson Beach Park Campground amenities.
NYC sightseeing trips: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides strategic access to New York City attractions. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8... There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F," notes Joe R., highlighting transportation convenience from this location.
What campers like
Wooded sites with privacy: Turkey Swamp Park offers spacious, naturally-separated camping spots. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest... There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," explains Katheryn N.
Off-season tranquility: Beaver Pond Campground transforms from busy summer destination to peaceful retreat in fall. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available," writes Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Reasonable pricing: Military facilities like NWS Earle RV Park offer budget-friendly camping with full amenities. "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet," reports Jeffrey about the NWS Earle RV Park.
What you should know
Tick exposure: Some wooded sites present significant tick hazards. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns Laura Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Campsite limitations: Battle Row lacks traditional camping amenities. "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground. The sites all have a table and raised BBQ 'pit' for cooking only," explains katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Location inaccuracies: Skyline RV Camp has moved locations, invalidating promotional materials. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property... There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV," warns John T.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Heckscher State Park provides extensive child-friendly facilities. "This place is the best around for group and family camping... There is a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach," notes Giselle P. about Heckscher State Park Campground.
Bug management: Plan for minimal insect issues at certain times. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too," shares Jaewook P. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Water activities: Rental options make family water recreation accessible. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," explains Dan W.
Tips from RVers
Utility configurations: Be prepared for non-standard hookup layouts. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site... All roads and camper pads are dirt," reports Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
NYC access strategies: When visiting New York City from Jersey City, plan for alternative bridge routes. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Sewer connections: Some campgrounds have unusual dump station setups. "The sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains," warns Jessica D. about National Guard Training Center RV Sites.
