Long Island's north shore features several state parks with cabin accommodations within a 30-mile radius of St. James. Located at sea level with sandy beaches along the Long Island Sound, this region experiences mild summers and moderate winters. Cabin options in the area range from rustic sites with minimal amenities to fully furnished cottages with modern conveniences.
What to do
Hiking near cabins: Wildwood State Park campground offers multiple trails through hardwood forests and pine barrens, creating opportunities for wildlife observation. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," reports one Wildwood State Park Campground visitor.
Beach activities: Many cabin locations provide direct beach access for swimming, fishing, and shoreline walks. "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," notes a Wildwood camper.
Local attractions: Cabin accommodations serve as convenient base camps for regional exploration. "We stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," explains a visitor to Wildwood State Park, while at Croton Point Park, a camper mentions being close to "Bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
What campers like
Proximity to water: Cabins with water views or beach access rank highly among visitors. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, guests appreciate being "steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean."
Seasonal availability: Many cabin facilities operate on extended seasonal schedules beyond summer. At Wildwood State Park, a camper notes it's "right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound," making it suitable for shoulder-season visits from "April 1 to October 10."
Natural surroundings: Wildlife observation opportunities enhance cabin stays. "Lots of deer, pretty good birding. You have to buy a stargazing permit to be out on the beach after sunset, which is kind of strange but really helps prevent hooligans from taking over the beach," explains a Wildwood visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential for cabin reservations throughout the region. For Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, "two-night minimum on weekends, and no fires. You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though."
Transportation logistics: Some cabin locations require specific access methods. Fire Island accommodations require ferry transport, as one camper explains: "Fire Island is a great spot in the summer, but can be busy. Camping gets you away from the bustle. It is a little less than a half mile walk from the ferry dock."
Insect preparation: Comprehensive insect protection is necessary, particularly at certain locations. At Watch Hill, a visitor warns: "We were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long. 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!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature dedicated play areas. At Heckscher State Park Campground, a visitor notes: "There is a playground just for the campground" and another mentions "playground is driving distance not walking."
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities supplement family cabin stays. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," reports a Fire Island camper, while at Heckscher, "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."
Space considerations: Site selection impacts family experience. Regarding Heckscher State Park, a camper advises: "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Utilities differ between cabin locations. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, "Most of the roads are paved, the sites are large and level, there are full hookups, and a dump station" according to a visitor who found it convenient for exploring the region.
Access challenges: Site access varies considerably between locations. One Wildwood camper explains: "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Seasonal considerations: RV cabin availability follows specific schedules. At Hammonasset State Park Campground, a visitor notes that "No one enforces the parks rules so some groups tend to be rowdy later in the evening," which is important for those seeking quiet cabin experiences during peak season from "May 26 to September 4."
