Cabin rental options near Medford, New York extend beyond the main state parks to include accommodations at Watch Hill on Fire Island and Cedar Point in East Hampton. These lodging facilities range from rustic accommodations to fully-equipped cottages with modern amenities. Seasonal availability varies, with most cabins operating during the peak summer months between April and November.
What to do
Beach access: Walk-in cabin sites at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground put guests steps from the ocean. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," notes one visitor, who adds that recreational programs are available: "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
Hiking trails: Rentals at Kettletown State Park Campground provide access to woodland paths. "The shorter hiking trails in the area were really beautiful," reports one camper. Many trails connect to the Long Island Sound shoreline, where a visitor notes "high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water."
Water activities: Fishing spots are available near cabin sites at most locations. Riverdale Farm includes a swimming pond and river access. According to a reviewer, "There is a playground, game room, 'adult' lounge, a laundry, a swimming pond, and river access for fishing and swimming."
What campers like
Bayfront views: Cabins at Heckscher State Park Campground provide waterfront settings along Nichol's and Great South Bays. A reviewer describes the experience: "The beachside cottage has a full kitchen and large bathroom with a walk-in shower. The cottages are a short walk from the beach and also include a fire pit with Adirondack chairs and an outdoor shower."
Convenience to attractions: Wildwood State Park Campground cabin rentals offer proximity to regional destinations. "Close to the Hampton's and Fire Island National Seashore. A great family campsite right on the Long Island Sound," mentions one visitor. Another adds that there are "lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away."
Nighttime tranquility: Fire Island cabin rental areas promote stargazing opportunities. One camper recommends getting a backcountry permit for Watch Hill: "You can choose where you want to set up camp. There are many spots along the dunes and allows to really space out from other campers. It felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves."
What you should know
Insects: Bug protection is essential at Fire Island cabin areas. "The mosquitoes are extremely potent and plentiful. Take the good stuff," warns one visitor. Another camper agrees: "We were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long. Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net."
Reservation requirements: Booking in advance is necessary for most cabin rentals. A Hammonasset State Park Campground visitor advises: "The camp sites do fill up FAST over the summer up until school starts back up so if you plan to camp, BOOK AHEAD!"
Transportation logistics: Some cabin locations require ferry access. A Watch Hill camper explains: "Fire Island is a great spot in the summer, but can be busy. It is a little less than a half mile walk from the ferry dock and located behind the dunes which offer some protection."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverdale Farm Campsites cabin areas include recreation facilities. A regular visitor mentions: "The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice. They did a show on the beach one night that was fun too. We did bingo too." Another adds, "Great place to hang with friends and family, lots of activities, clean bathrooms."
Organized activities: Cabin rentals often include scheduled events for younger guests. A Riverdale Farm camper reports: "They have activities for the kids on weekends and holidays. They are close to local beaches and hiking trails."
Fire safety: Fire restrictions vary between cabin areas. While some include fire rings, a Watch Hill camper notes: "Two-night minimum on weekends, and no fires. You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For those bringing RVs to parks with cabins, choose locations carefully. A Wildwood visitor shares: "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Spacing considerations: Review site layouts before booking cabins or RV spots. One Wildwood camper warns: "The sites were large and loud, but I hope that was only exceptional nights!" Another notes: "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to camp."
Bathroom access: Rental cabins have varying bathroom facilities. At some locations, shower buildings may require improvement. A Kettletown visitor notes: "CT should really invest in better quality bath houses. This is the only reason why I didn't give it 5 stars."
