Campgrounds near Long Beach, New York provide alternatives to oceanfront options with varying accessibility and seasonal considerations. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with most parks closing during winter months. Beach camping opportunities range from basic tent sites to elevated cottages, each offering different levels of beach proximity within a 30-mile radius of Long Beach.
What to do
Beach access with fewer crowds: At Blydenburgh County Park, visitors can enjoy water activities without beach congestion. "There is a large dog run so the fur babies will have a great time too. Staff is super nice. Bathrooms are just okay. Sites are close and very buggy but 'tis the season,'" notes camper Karen N. The park features a lake with fishing but no swimming permitted.
Historical exploration: Camp Gateway Sandy Hook offers military history alongside beach access. "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes, including a mini-sized glider which we were granted personal access to get into," reports Susan B., highlighting educational opportunities.
Biking and water activities: The beaches near Sandy Hook feature dedicated paths for cyclists. "There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride. There is a cost to enter the park (unless you bike in) but it's free after 5:00," explains Maggie A., providing a budget-friendly option for evening beach access.
What campers like
Manhattan skyline views: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban proximity with iconic views. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," reports Joe R. The park offers convenient public transportation into Manhattan, with "the light rail a block away, and the path train about 8 [blocks away]."
Natural diversity: Camping at Cheesequake State Park provides access to various ecosystems. "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations," notes one reviewer. Despite highway proximity, the park maintains natural appeal.
Group-friendly setups: Heckscher State Park accommodates larger gatherings with open layouts. "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun," explains Giselle P., noting the consistent maintenance of facilities.
What you should know
Site boundaries: Many campgrounds near Long Beach lack defined site borders. At Heckscher State Park Campground, "The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site's to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc." according to Jessica C.
Weather conditions: Late season camping brings fewer insects but cooler temperatures. "We had 2/6 days with part sun" during a late-season stay at one campground. Fall camping requires additional layers and rain protection for nor'easter season.
Limited parking: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access. At Camp Gateway Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" advises Christy K., highlighting a common logistical challenge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row Campground features recently updated play areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes katrina M., making it suitable for children needing recreational options.
Beach proximity considerations: Beach access often requires walking or driving from campsites. "It's a good 10 minute walk to the beach through a concrete parking lot and basketball courts," at one oceanfront park, making strollers or wagons necessary for families with small children.
Safety measures: Regular ranger patrols increase family security at many campgrounds. "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base," notes Susan B. about Sandy Hook, while Jessica C. shares that "Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe" at Heckscher State Park.
Tips from RVers
Height restrictions: Alternate routes are essential for larger vehicles. "Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. about navigating to Liberty Harbor RV Park, confirming the need for specialized route planning.
Electrical hookups: Limited full-service sites means advance booking is crucial. "Sites had provided electric and water and are kept so clean," reports Lexis N. about Battle Row Campground, though many parks offer only partial hookups.
Site selection: End sites provide more space at crowded parks. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S. about optimizing the parking lot setup at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
