Tent campsites near Manorville, New York extend beyond coastal locations to include riverside and woodland options. The region sits on Long Island's pine barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil and mixed forests of pitch pine and oak. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions between 55-75°F with lower precipitation rates.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: At Selden Neck State Park Campground, accessible only by water, visitors can explore the Connecticut River. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags," advises a camper who visited with their 5-year-old.
Hiking trails: Explore the network of trails around the campgrounds. At Gillette Castle State Park Campground, one visitor notes, "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
Fishing and swimming: Riverside camping provides water recreation opportunities. "You can swim and fish and relax all day!" shares a camper who stayed at the south end of Hurd Park accessed by boat.
What campers like
Beach proximity: The island camping locations offer unique shoreline experiences. At Chapman Pond Preserve, campers appreciate that the "CT river [is] within view" from the "good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse."
Secluded camping spots: Many campers value the privacy of certain sites. "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites," reports one visitor who found "plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit" at site 2, Hogback.
Natural surroundings: The region offers camping immersed in nature. "Gorgeous quiet campground," describes a visitor to Battle Row Campground, adding that "the sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many campsites require special transportation. For backcountry camping at Fire Island National Seashore, a camper explains, "So it's about a mile to three miles to the closest campsites on the western side. Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water."
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly. "The bathrooms are run down and not well kept," noted one Battle Row visitor, while another reported, "The bathroom was very clean and well stocked."
Reservations required: Most sites need advance booking, especially during peak season. "Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between march 15 and labor day," advises a Fire Island visitor.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes remain a consistent challenge. At Hidden Lake Farm, the "quiet and private" setting requires appropriate insect protection during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," reports a Selden Neck State Park visitor.
Beach activities: At riverside locations, low tide reveals play areas. "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," notes a parent who camped with their 5-year-old at Selden Neck.
Foggy morning awareness: Weather conditions can affect departure schedules. "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back," shares a Selden Neck camper.
Tips from RVers
Fire container requirements: Battle Row has specific fire regulations. "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," explains a camper who gives this tip despite the shortcomings they found.
Site spacing considerations: "The lots are near an expressway that constantly has loud traffic," warns a Battle Row visitor, suggesting RVers should select sites further from highways when possible.
Local camping convenience: For residents of Long Island and surrounding areas, local options provide quick getaways. "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites... It's great if your local easy in and out," shares a Battle Row camper.
