Glamping close to Old Bethpage, New York combines convenient access to New York City with natural waterfront settings. Located on Long Island, where elevation ranges from sea level to about 400 feet, the region experiences warm, humid summers and mild winters. Many premium camping locations operate seasonally from April through October with winter availability limited to specific parks.
What to do
Hiking on-site: Mountain Lakes Park features trails accessible directly from glamping accommodations, allowing immediate access to natural surroundings. According to one visitor, "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind."
Beach exploration: Indian Island County Park offers glamping sites with shoreline access. "We had a great time at Indian Island, even if it was just for a short stay. The beach was within walking distance, lots of little trails, and plenty of activities for the whole family," notes a recent camper.
Water activities: The lakes at Mountain Lakes Park provide kayaking and fishing opportunities. A reviewer described the area: "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
Local attractions: When staying at Wildwood State Park, visitors can access nearby destinations. One camper shared, "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. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
What campers like
Platform sites: Wildwood State Park offers elevated camping platforms that keep tents dry. As one camper explains, "This is one of my favorite campgrounds solely because there are platform sites so I can place my tent on a concrete or wooden platform."
Unique beach access: Smith Point County Park provides dual-water glamping with Atlantic Ocean and bay views. "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," a visitor described.
Nature encounters: Smith Point offers wildlife viewing opportunities right from your glamping site. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," shares one camper about the experience.
Clean facilities: Indian Island County Park maintains well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms and showers were a good size. Rangers were driving around often," notes a camper, adding to the comfort of the glamping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Several luxury glamping options near Old Bethpage have strict booking policies. At Smith Point, a camper notes: "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Site privacy varies: Wildwood State Park Campground glamping sites differ in seclusion levels. A visitor observed, "You can find sites that are less wooded and better suited to group camping, as well as sites that are a little more secluded."
Fire ring availability: Unlike standard campgrounds, some glamping locations require you to bring or rent fire rings. At Indian Island, one camper reported, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there."
Beach conditions: Beaches at luxury glamping sites may have varying terrain. At Wildwood, a camper warned, "Beach is beautiful, very rocky, bring your water shoes, sunset scenery is beautiful!"
Tips for camping with families
Off-season benefits: Visiting luxury glamping sites during shoulder seasons offers advantages. An Indian Island visitor shared, "Wonderful weekend visit in the off season. Site was level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. Multiple playgrounds for the kids."
Activity planning: Camp Glen Gray offers premium family-friendly amenities. According to one visitor, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Site selection for groups: When glamping with multiple families near Old Bethpage, consider specific site configurations. At Indian Island, one visitor noted, "Site 130 was a camper we rented then I got 131 to have more room and had tents."
Quiet expectations: Some luxury camping areas can be noisy. A Wildwood visitor cautioned, "The other campers can be loud, so it's like a city of camping instead of the great outdoors."
Tips from RVers
Premium waterfront parking: RV glamping at Smith Point allows direct oceanfront positioning. "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass," advised one RVer.
Pull-through convenience: Branchbrook campground offers pull-through sites with full hookups for luxury RV camping. Though one camper warned about recent changes, noting the campground is best for "out of state construction workers" and that "diesel trucks will wake you up EVERY morning at 4 am even on weekends."
Site leveling: Indian Island provides level glamping sites for RVs. One camper mentioned, "Camp site itself was pretty flat, had a water station, bathrooms were well kept."
