Cabin accommodations near Old Westbury, New York range from rustic to modern, with several options within a 1-2 hour drive. The region sits at the western edge of Long Island with elevations rarely exceeding 400 feet, creating mild terrain suitable for beginner hikers and families. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s-30s°F while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Wildwood State Park Campground offers a beach on the Long Island Sound with distinct rocky terrain. According to visitor Amber A., "The North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water" creates an accessible swimming environment, though water shoes are recommended.
Hiking nearby: Camp Glen Gray in New Jersey features multiple hiking trails accessible from cabin sites. One camper notes, "Great Camp!!! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp."
Urban exploration: Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area offers a unique camping experience with urban views. As camper Phillip L. reports, "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light... There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring."
What campers like
Lake access: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center features cabins with lake access. Visitor Ethan K. notes, "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains."
Fire Island's beach proximity: For those willing to take a ferry, Watch Hill Fire Island Campground offers cabins near ocean beaches. Emily S. reports, "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it."
Group facilities: Many cabins accommodate groups well. At Sebago Cabin Camp, camper Hashim C. explains, "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake. Most cabins have 2 rooms with 4 cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table."
What you should know
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Kettletown State Park Campground cabins offer basic shelter without modern conveniences. Visitor Elaine C. cautions, "Be advised, there isn't a kitchen or bathroom in the cabins!"
Reservation timing: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Heckscher State Park, the campground fills quickly according to Thorin J.: "I camped here solo on Friday and Saturday over the Labor Day weekend... each camping site has a picnic table and barbeque grill."
Insect protection required: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground requires serious insect preparation. Visitor Pedro R. warns, "Come with deet repellent as mosquitos are vicious. Over all great weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park has facilities for children near cabin areas. A camper named Thomas notes, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Weekend programming: Several parks offer organized activities. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Sara P. reports, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin stays offer nature encounters. At Heckscher State Park, W L. observed "wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" during their cabin stay, providing natural educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited cabin parking: Wildwood State Park Campground has strict vehicle rules. Giselle P. explains, "Recently they became very stringent about parking two vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles. I usually host group camping trips and the single vehicle rule makes that very difficult."
Cabin vs. RV sections: Many parks separate cabin areas from RV sections. Michael G. from Wildwood State Park notes, "Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site."
Site definition varies: At Croton Point Park, Lee D. observed, "We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
