Camping options near Oyster Bay, New York, benefit from Long Island's temperate coastal climate with average summer temperatures ranging from 70-85°F. The region's peninsula geography creates excellent water access points with low elevation camping areas typically sitting less than 100 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain open April through November, though several maintain year-round operation with different seasonal pricing structures.
What to do
Beach activities: 5-minute walk at Croton Point Park: Located on a peninsula in the Hudson River, campers have easy access to swimming areas with lifeguards. "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet," notes Jonathan C.
Kayaking: rentals available on-site: Heckscher State Park Campground offers kayak rentals directly at the park. According to Ellen C., "There are also hiking trails and a place where you can rent a kayak." The park also features swimming areas with sandy beaches just a short drive from the camping area.
Model airplane field: family-friendly activity: Croton Point Park maintains a dedicated model airplane field for enthusiasts. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," mentions Andrew A., making this an excellent option for families with various interests.
What campers like
Private sites: varying levels of seclusion: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers sites with good privacy. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," suggests Asher K.
Wildlife viewing: multiple species sightings: Heckscher State Park provides opportunities to see local wildlife. One camper mentioned, "Wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles" in their review, while other campgrounds in the region commonly report raccoon activity after dark.
Heated cottages: alternative to traditional camping: For those seeking more comfort, Heckscher State Park provides heated cottages along the shore. "Modern facility with full kitchen accessories (coffee maker, plates, wine opener, can opener, silverware, pots, pans, cooking utensils, toaster, oven), sponge/dish liquid. Microwave," reports W L.
What you should know
Noise considerations: variable quiet hours enforcement: While most rv campgrounds near Oyster Bay enforce 10pm quiet hours, enforcement varies by location. At Croton Point Park, one camper noted, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Reservation timing: book well in advance: For peak season access, especially holiday weekends, reservations fill quickly. "This is a small beach campground. It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day," commented a visitor about Nickerson Beach Park.
Site differences: significant variation between locations: Sites range from well-defined to ambiguous spaces. At Heckscher State Park, "The sites are designated by printing on the roads and do not have clear boundaries between them," according to Thorin J., who also mentioned that "the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: accessible from campsites: Battle Row Campground features a centrally located playground that's visible from camping areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes katrina M., while Thomas from Croton Point Park mentions a "playground within sight of our camper."
Tent platforms: better rain protection: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park offers raised platforms for tent camping. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains Ethan K.
Special events: seasonal programming: Heckscher State Park occasionally hosts special events for campers. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground," shared Giselle P.
Tips from RVers
Public transportation access: NYC day trips: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides excellent access to Manhattan despite its basic facilities. "The ONLY thing we really liked about it was it's convenient location to the city with easy access to the ferry boats," explains Ericka T., while Karen S. adds, "2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to Manhattan."
Parking limitations: site size considerations: RV sites near Oyster Bay vary significantly in size and layout. At Liberty Harbor, "Larger rigs will barely have a yard. And don't bet on a private picnic table," warns one reviewer, while Nickerson Beach can accommodate larger rigs but has limited availability.
Hookup variations: plan accordingly: Check specific hookup availability when making reservations. "Sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," reports Lexis N. about Battle Row Campground, while other nearby campgrounds offer full hookups with sewer connections.
