Tent campsites near Plainview, New York provide options in multiple terrains across Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties. The region sits at relatively low elevations ranging from sea level at coastal sites to about 420 feet at Ward Pound Ridge in northern Westchester. Summer camping temperatures typically average between 75-85°F during the day and 60-70°F at night, with higher humidity at coastal locations.
What to do
Swimming at lakeside beaches: Harriman State Park offers multiple options for water activities. At Sebago Cabin Camp, campers can enjoy "a huge lake and great beach area...perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." For more swimming options, a visitor notes, "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly-beach like camping."
Hiking wilderness trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features extensive trail networks across its 4,300 acres. A reviewer mentioned the park has "endless trails in the area... I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area." The reservation contains Mount Bailey, with one camper noting it's "the highest point in Westchester County."
Beach exploration: Fire Island National Seashore offers backcountry beach camping options. One camper described the experience: "Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water. Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between march 15 and labor day." The beach sites require walking "about a mile to three miles to the closest campsites on the western side."
Urban exploring: Unusual camping experiences exist closer to urban areas. At Staten Island's Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can explore abandoned structures. One reviewer mentioned "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building."
What campers like
Private tent locations: Battle Row Campground offers secluded tent areas set away from RV sites. A visitor noted, "They have tent sites. Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy." Another reviewer commented on the tent section's amenities: "There are 5-7 tent sites. Ours was #59, well shaded and spacious."
Water views at night: At Sandy Hook in Gateway National Recreation Area, campers appreciate the unique location between major cities. One visitor described the view: "With views from the campsite looking out to the sea, the skyline of NYC on the left & NJ on the right, it was awe inspiring and, the sunset was a real treat!!"
Sheltered camping options: Multiple sites offer alternatives to traditional tenting. Mountain Lakes Park provides yurt camping, which a reviewer called "a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC." Meanwhile, at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, campers enjoy "platforms which are great, especially when it rains."
Wildlife watching: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local animals. One camper at Harriman noted the lake is "very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio." At Croton Point Park, a visitor warned to "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
What you should know
Strict fire regulations: Battle Row doesn't provide permanent fire pits. A reviewer explained, "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." Fire Island has even stricter rules - a camper noted, "no fires. You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though."
Insect considerations: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground has significant mosquito issues. A visitor warned, "mosquitoes are extremely potent and plentiful. Take the good stuff." Another camper at Fire Island similarly cautioned, "Lots of mosquitoes, be prepared."
Transport logistics: Many campgrounds require planning beyond driving. Watch Hill requires a ferry ride, as one camper noted: "You can get there by ferry." Sandy Hook has parking restrictions: "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance planning. For Ward Pound Ridge, a camper explained, "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park provides convenient play areas for children. A camper mentioned "a decent playground for young kids" and another noted having "a playground within sight of our camper." The park also offers "plenty porta potties all around" for families with young children needing frequent bathroom breaks.
Educational programs: Watch Hill provides ranger-led activities for children. A visitor noted, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids." These programs often focus on local ecology and history.
Private beaches: For families wanting water activities without crowds, backcountry camping at Fire Island provides isolation. A camper described, "After that you can choose where you want to set up camp. There are many spots along the dunes and allows to really space out from other campers."
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds offer special weekend programming. At Sebago Cabins, a reviewer mentioned they "do big bon 🔥 on Saturday" and have "movie nights." Another camper confirmed the "outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Battle Row provides basic utilities for RVs. A camper reported, "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean." However, note that tent sites are separate from RV areas: "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites."
Site spacing: Croton Point Park offers reasonable separation between RV sites. The FHU (full hookup) sites have "trees separating the sites," though a reviewer mentioned "they were close together." For more space, consider the tent camping area which has "sites very private with some dirt roads to exit out."
Public transportation access: For smaller RVs, camping sites with public transport options reduce driving stress. The AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is "accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)."
