Camping opportunities near Old Bethpage, New York cluster within Nassau and Suffolk counties at elevations between 60-100 feet above sea level. The region's humid subtropical climate brings average summer temperatures between 75-85°F, ideal for outdoor recreation from May through October. The terrain transitions from the flatter western sections toward more wooded eastern areas, with several waterfront camping options offering Long Island Sound or Atlantic Ocean access.
What to do
Hiking trails with water views: Blydenburgh County Park offers a scenic 7-mile loop around its lake with opportunities for wildlife viewing. "The hiking trails were quiet natural and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked," notes Linda A., adding that the area provides "a true feeling of escaping into the woods."
Beach activities at ocean sites: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides direct ocean access for swimming and surfing. According to Inocencia O., "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean." For backcountry enthusiasts, Emily S. shares, "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot... After that you can choose where you want to set up camp."
Fishing opportunities: Several campsites near Old Bethpage offer fishing options. Erik R. describes Blydenburgh County Park as having a "nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail." Christopher S. adds that "Row boat for fishing was great" at the park, providing a different way to experience the water.
What campers like
Convenient beach access: Many campers value waterfront proximity. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, Michael K. notes it's "Right on the beach! Great spot to camp at if the waves are pumping at Lido Beach on Long Island." The campground allows for easy beach activities without driving.
Proximity to NYC attractions: For campers wanting to balance outdoor time with city visits, multiple campgrounds offer this flexibility. Clifford explains that Nickerson Beach Campground is "Close to amenities, shopping, and anything else you need," adding, "Very close to everything" after spending two weeks there.
Heated cottage options: Heckscher State Park Campground provides upscale camping accommodations. According to W L., "This was a last-minute booking for us and we were delighted with the beachside cottage, with enough amenities that mom and dad did not worry we had their cutie with us for camping." The cottages include "modern facility with full kitchen accessories... WiFi access, bathroom with shower, large screened in porch."
What you should know
Fire rules vary by campground: Not all campgrounds allow traditional fire pits. Katrina M. shares about Battle Row Campground, "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." At Heckscher State Park, Ellen C. observed a similar situation: "There are no fire pits on any of the sites, although I learned afterwards that they do allow you to bring your own metal fire pit as long as it is elevated off the ground."
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots than others. Michael M. says about Battle Row Campground, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy." In contrast, Jessica C. notes about Heckscher State Park, "The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site's to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc."
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly at certain campgrounds. Rosie R. warns about Watch Hill Fire Island Campground: "We were immediately getting attacked so we doused ourselves in deet. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long." Igor K. reinforces this, stating, "Lots of mosquitoes, be prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wildwood State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including play areas. Ossama B. shares, "Kids were roaming freely and safe!" The campground layout allows for family activities within sight of campsites.
Beach camping with amenities: Several options combine beach access with facilities families need. Lexis N. says about Battle Row Campground: "The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful. The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!"
Groups with children: For larger family gatherings, Giselle P. recommends Heckscher State Park, calling it "the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun." She adds, "There is a playground just for the campground... On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers."
Tips from RVers
Height restrictions for travel: RVers must navigate parkway limitations when traveling to campsites near Old Bethpage. Matt S. shares his experience heading to Nickerson Beach: "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges and getting the tops ripped off like a tin can."
Off-peak stays recommended: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers unique camping experiences, though with some limitations. Craig M. notes it's "rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite." For RVers looking for hookups, Wildwood State Park provides water, electric and sewer connections but James O. recommends visiting during less crowded periods.
Utility connections: RVers should research hookup availability before arrival. Michael G. points out that Wildwood State Park Campground has "water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'." Bathrooms and showers might be less maintained at RV-focused areas since "most people used their personal bathroom/shower in their RV."
