Tent camping near Ocean Beach, New York centers primarily on Fire Island, a narrow barrier island separating the Great South Bay from the Atlantic Ocean. The island stretches approximately 32 miles long but averages only 0.25 miles wide, creating a unique camping environment with limited facilities. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day with cooler nights, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions and fewer insects.
What to do
Explore abandoned buildings: At Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can investigate historic structures with ranger-led tours. "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring... There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," notes Phillip L.
Bike scenic trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers miles of well-maintained paths for cyclists. "There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around. There is also many trails of various difficulty levels to suit everyone, including horseback riders," explains Ming R.
Beach activities: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area provides ocean access with lifeguards during summer months. "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," mentions Stanley S.
What campers like
Secluded beach access: At Fire Island National Seashore, backcountry campsites offer privacy away from crowds. "Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water. Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between march 15 and labor day," advises Nora S.
Lean-to shelters: The unique camping structures at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offer protection from weather. "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather... All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces," notes Paul R.
Urban camping option: For those wanting to stay near NYC, Battle Row Campground provides a convenient location. "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," says Michael M.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and horseflies can be problematic throughout the region, especially on Fire Island. "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend," warns Rosie R. about Watch Hill.
Limited shower facilities: Many campgrounds have basic or no shower facilities. At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site," explains Craig M.
Reservation methods: Some campgrounds require in-person booking. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation requires campers to book sites at the office: "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be," advises Paul R.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground offers educational activities for children. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," mentions Inocencia O.
Playground access: Battle Row Campground provides play areas centrally located within the campground. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," reports Katrina M.
Nature museum visit: Ward Pound Ridge offers educational exhibits for children. "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids," suggests Ming R.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV sites: Ocean Beach area camping is primarily tent-focused with few dedicated RV options. At Battle Row Campground, "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites... The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," notes Lexis N.
No vehicle access: Many Fire Island camping areas prohibit vehicles at campsites. At Sandy Hook, "No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table," reports Craig M.
Storage solutions: Wildlife concerns require proper food storage. Sandy Hook campsites "have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," according to Craig M.
