RV camping near Plainview, New York offers access to diverse outdoor experiences ranging from beach settings to forested environments. Long Island campsites typically operate seasonally with many closing between November and April, while a few facilities remain open year-round. Several campgrounds include accessibility features, though availability varies significantly during summer months when demand peaks.
What to Do
Beach activities at Smith Point County Park: Located about 35 miles from Plainview, this oceanfront campground provides direct beach access for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. "Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view. A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings," notes Patrick C.
Explore Harriman State Park trails: The park surrounding Beaver Pond Campground offers hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," explains Megan B. The campground provides convenient access to both wilderness areas and nearby attractions.
Playground access for kids: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Croton Point Park, "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," according to Andrew A., making it suitable for families with younger children seeking structured recreation options.
What Campers Like
Proximity to NYC: Campgrounds near Plainview provide relatively quick access to New York City while offering natural settings. At Skyline RV Camp, campers previously enjoyed spectacular city views, though recent reviewers note: "Skyline RV Camp has moved... The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property," warns John T.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. "You get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," mentions Tim M. about Smith Point County Park. Several reviewers mention deer, rabbits, and birds as common sightings throughout the region.
Clean facilities at several parks: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are available at select locations. "The bath house was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," states Joe R. about facilities at Liberty Harbor RV Park, though experiences vary considerably between campgrounds across the region.
What You Should Know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature tightly spaced sites with minimal separation. "Heckscher State Park is 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. No solitude, lots of families with kids," cautions Jessica C.
Reservation challenges: Securing spots at popular campgrounds requires advance planning. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, "It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day. Still, it is a clean and well run campground," explains Michael M.
Wildlife precautions required: Campers should prepare for potential animal encounters. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," advises Anil S. at Croton Point Park. Multiple reviewers mention wildlife management as essential at campgrounds throughout the region.
Tips for Camping with Families
Cabin options for non-RV families: Several parks offer cabin rentals for those without camping equipment. "The campground has electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean," notes Lexis N. about Battle Row Campground.
Look for campgrounds with amenities: Facilities with dedicated recreation areas enhance family experiences. "Heckscher State Park is great for families who want a safe space to camp... Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe," reports Jessica C.
Consider noise levels: Many campgrounds experience significant activity, especially on weekends. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," warns Steve W. about Beaver Pond, indicating families should plan accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Maneuverability challenges in urban areas: Larger RVs face difficulties at some campgrounds. "A short 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads," notes Steve W., highlighting the importance of planning routes carefully before arrival.
Seasonal restrictions: Many RV parks near Plainview have limited operating seasons. At Cathedral Pines County Park, "Usually every site has a decent fire pit/grill. Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," advises Connor M., emphasizing the need to secure food supplies regardless of camping style.
Limited full-hookup availability: Not all campgrounds provide complete services. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly," explains Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground, indicating the need to verify hookup availability before booking.
