Tent campsites near Melville, New York offer convenient camping options within 30-75 minutes of driving distance. The area features a mix of coastal peninsulas, woodland reserves, and state parks with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,289 feet at Bailey Mountain, the highest point in Westchester County. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Beach swimming and hiking: 5 miles from Watch Hill Campground on Fire Island, campers can enjoy both ocean and bay swimming. A visitor shared, "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean."
Boat rentals at AMC Harriman: Access The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center for lake activities. One camper noted, "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity. Highly recommend if you are in the area!"
Urban exploration at Gateway campgrounds: Camp Gateway at Staten Island offers unique historical attractions. A reviewer explained, "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building."
Movie nights and community events: Some parks host regular entertainment. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean! I had such a great stay and this is deffinatly one of my top favorite campgrounds."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent camping sites near Melville offer surprising solitude. At Mountain Lakes Park, a camper reported, "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."
Proximity to NYC without crowds: Some lesser-known sites provide quiet experiences despite their location. One reviewer at Battle Row mentioned, "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."
Variety of accommodation options: Beyond basic tenting, several campgrounds offer alternatives. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance standards. One camper at Battle Row noted, "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Some sites require special access planning. At 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!"
Insect preparation: Coastal camping areas can have significant insect activity. On Fire Island, a camper warned, "Come with deet repellent as mosquitos are vicious. Over all great weekend."
Fire regulations: Fire rules vary significantly between sites. At Battle Row, "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."
Reservation systems: Each campground has different booking procedures. For Croton Point Park, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A reviewer at Croton Point Park mentioned, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Ranger programs: Some parks provide educational activities. At Watch Hill, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
Beach camping alternatives: For families wanting more amenities than primitive beach camping, consider options with more facilities. One visitor to Sebago noted, "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping. The cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge."
Weather considerations: Plan for variable weather when tent camping with kids. A camper at Mountain Lakes shared, "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery. We will definitely be planning a trip back to Mountain Lakes when the weather gets nicer though!"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Melville have restricted RV facilities. At Fire Island National Seashore, "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."
Campsite selection: Choose sites carefully based on your needs. At Croton Point, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise. A camper at Croton Point noted, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
