Tent camping around Roslyn Heights, New York requires some driving, as the nearest developed campgrounds are 30-60 minutes away by car. The region features a mix of county and national recreation areas, many situated near bodies of water including the Atlantic Ocean, the Hudson River, and smaller lakes. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 60-70°F at night, with higher humidity near coastal camping areas.
What to do
Beach activities: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area has ocean beaches with lifeguards during summer months. One camper noted, "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City."
Hiking trails: Mountain Lakes Park offers multiple trail options direct from campsites. A visitor shared, "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind."
Water recreation: Many camping locations offer water access. At Sebago Cabin Camp, visitors enjoy "a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campsites at some locations provide seclusion. A visitor to Battle Row Campground commented, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out."
Convenience to NYC: Most tent campsites near Roslyn Heights are within 1-2 hours of the city. At Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area, a camper mentioned, "This place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY... located in the middle of staten island."
Natural surroundings: Despite proximity to urban areas, many sites provide natural settings. A Croton Point Park visitor said, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
What you should know
Mosquito protection: Insects can be a significant issue at some locations. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, a camper warned, "We couldn't even enjoy our meals at camp because it was that bad. Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!"
Booking requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "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."
Fire regulations: Policies vary between campgrounds. At Battle Row Campground, "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."
Facility limitations: Many campgrounds have limited amenities. At Sandy Hook, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. At Croton Point Park, a camper noted, "Beautiful campsite with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present... there are lots of bunnies!"
Educational opportunities: Rangers at many parks offer programs. At Sandy Hook, "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base... The ability to view our military history was fabulous."
Transportation considerations: Some sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Watch Hill, "It's a bit of a walk to camp site but all on board walk (we took to carts full of stuff) some sites are not private meaning some site will have your neighbor right behind you."
Noise levels: Sound carries differently at various campgrounds. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, "The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you."
Tips from RVers
Site types: RV sites vary considerably between locations. At Battle Row Campground, "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites. There were lots of showers but only 1 was unlocked (free and with hot water)."
Hookup limitations: Many sites have partial or no hookups. One camper at Croton Point Park observed, "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump!"
Off-season advantages: Shoulder seasons offer less crowded experiences. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, "We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus."
Size restrictions: Most local campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. At Battle Row, "This campground is old and there isn't much there, but it depends on why you're camping whether that matters to you. We wanted to be by the beach and we were."
