Cabin camping near Montauk, New York provides shelter options beyond tents, with locations scattered across eastern Long Island and into nearby Connecticut and Rhode Island. The region experiences moderate coastal climate with average summer temperatures around 75-80°F, while fall brings cooler nights often in the 50s. Waterfront cabin rentals typically book several months in advance during peak summer season.
What to do
Beach activities at East Beach State Campground: The shoreline offers opportunities for surf casting, swimming, and beachcombing. Located in Charlestown, Rhode Island, this primitive beach camping area requires self-contained vehicles. A camper notes, "Camping here REQUIRES a self contained vehicle, please respect the nature of this beach and pack out everything you pack in."
Hiking trail access at Niantic KOA: Trails lead directly from the campground to Rocky Neck State Park and nearby beaches. The campground provides shuttle service to local beaches and downtown Niantic. A reviewer mentions, "Nice that you can walk to the trails/beach and Rocky Neck. Bathrooms could be nicer, but not bad."
Water recreation at Burlingame State Park Campground: This large Rhode Island park offers pond swimming, fishing, and biking trails through wooded areas. The park encompasses over 700 sites and connects to miles of trails. A visitor comments, "Lovely location - it's in the middle of the woods, has a pond, has pond swimming. It's just minutes to the ocean by car. Hiking and biking for miles."
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites at Aces High RV Park: Premium waterfront sites include concrete pads and patios with space between neighbors. Sites feature multiple hookup options and well-maintained facilities. A reviewer shares, "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds. 20-minutes drive to Mystic and all the touristy stuff to see and do."
Affordable basic cabin options at Rocky Neck State Park Campground: The campground offers sites for around $14 per night with access to the camp store, playground, and fishing areas. Bathrooms are maintained but rustic. One camper reports, "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking. Bathrooms were clean. No electricity at the sites."
Seasonal variety at Hammonasset State Park Campground: This Connecticut beach campground operates from May to September with distinct loops named after waterfowl. Sites vary from sunny to shaded, with beach access a short walk away. A visitor notes, "Large sights, mostly families, not loud, descent bathrooms, warm showers, nice beaches, great hiking and bird watching. Friendly staff. Amazing sunset scene."
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive cabins: Cabins range from basic structures to fully-equipped units. Most require guests to bring linens, pillows, and cooking equipment. Some have electricity but lack running water.
Reservation requirements at Strawberry Park: This Connecticut campground books quickly during summer months. The park has over 550 sites including cabin options with pool access and organized activities. According to a visitor, "Camp spaces are tight. Lots of activities for kids. Camp store sells beer."
Environmental considerations: Many cabins near Montauk operate seasonally due to weather constraints. Wildlife encounters, including skunks, can occur at wooded sites. A camper advises, "Keep food locked up too many skunks!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for rainy days: Indoor options exist at several campgrounds with recreation halls and game rooms. Some cabins include covered porches for shelter during inclement weather. One visitor shares, "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade (at the time it had DDR which was all the rage)."
Beach access timing: Morning visits to beaches provide less crowded conditions and better parking. Weekdays typically see fewer visitors than weekends. A camper suggests, "Great Beach, but beware, it can be crowded!!!! So get their early if you do go to the beach."
Child-friendly amenities at Mystic KOA: This campground includes mini-golf, hay rides, and planned daily activities for children. The pool area provides supervised swimming options. A family reports, "The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for cabin campers: Larger cabins often require advance reservations, particularly waterfront or premium locations. Some campgrounds designate specific loops for cabin rentals versus RV sites. A reviewer advises, "If you want to pay a little extra for the deluxe request slot 92!"
Utility considerations: Cabin amenities vary significantly between locations. Some include full kitchens and bathrooms while others offer only basic sleeping quarters. One camper notes, "Some feature private bathrooms, others require guests to use shared campground facilities."
Off-season availability: Several cabin locations remain open beyond summer months with reduced rates. Shoulder season (May/June and September/October) offers better availability and lower costs. A visitor mentions, "This is open year round."
