Cabin camping near Shoreham, New York offers a mix of coastal and wooded experiences within Long Island's unique geography. The region sits on the north shore of Long Island with elevations under 100 feet above sea level and experiences moderate Atlantic coastal climate patterns. Summer cabin rentals typically see temperatures between 70-85°F, while spring and fall cabins require additional bedding for cooler nights.
What to do
Beach activities at Wildwood State Park: Access the Long Island Sound shoreline where the water is relatively calm but rocky in some sections. "A great family campsite right on the Long Island Sound. A little bit of a bummer on the rental for a firepit but the bathrooms are big and spacious," notes Megan B. about Wildwood State Park Campground.
Waterfront hiking: Trails along bluffs provide views across the Long Island Sound to Connecticut. "The North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water. Lots of other nice state parks in the area plus all the usual Long Island attractions," explains Amber A.
Fruit picking excursions: Visit nearby orchards during summer and fall seasons, with many within 10-15 miles of cabin sites. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away," shares Giselle P.
What campers like
Beach access from Hammonasset State Park Campground: The Connecticut shore is accessible via ferry with short walking distances to water. "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need," explains Tiffany T.
Stargazing permits: Special night beach access for astronomy enthusiasts at certain locations. "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 and destroying the serenity," reports Amber A.
Nature centers and wildlife: Educational opportunities for cabin campers of all ages. "You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center," notes a visitor to Hammonasset.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: Particularly intense insect activity in wooded and coastal areas from June-September. "Expect to be eaten alive. It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend," warns Rosie R. about Watch Hill Fire Island Campground.
Fire pit policies vary significantly: Some parks require rentals, others provide them, and still others allow portable units only. "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to camp," notes Michael G.
Ferry access required: Some island locations require planning for boat transportation. "You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves," explains Igor K. about Watch Hill.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers family-focused activities during summer weekends. "Great Value and Nice Family owned business. The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this is an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice," writes Nick H.
Seasonal programming: Many parks run summer activities specifically for younger campers. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," mentions Inocencia O. about beach camping options.
Privacy considerations: More secluded sites often require advance booking. "If you like privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied," advises a recent visitor to Heckscher State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Rocky Neck State Park Campground: Choose locations based on shade preference and bathroom proximity. "Egret sites include one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup," notes Nita D.
Waste disposal planning: Limited full-hookup options means scheduling dump station visits. "We've been going to Hammonasset for years as a large family gathering. Most sites don't have hook ups so you have to run off battery and water storage tanks if you have a RV," explains Jason B.
Campground navigation: Some parks have tight turns and narrow access roads that challenge larger rigs. "The road into the campground is narrow and winding, so larger RVs may have trouble, but there were several of them there when we were there," reports Joel R. about Riverdale Farm.
