The New York metropolitan area offers multiple campground options within reasonable driving distance of South Farmingdale. Located on Long Island about 30 miles east of Manhattan, South Farmingdale sits in Nassau County with camping options stretching from nearby Suffolk County to parts of New Jersey. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers more comfortable conditions with daytime temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Beach access: Smith Point County Park provides direct beach access from campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," explains Ali O., who camped at Smith Point County Park.
Hiking trails: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park offers extensive trail networks. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby. Definitely coming back again and making this place a regular visit for my family and friends," notes Kelvin from his stay at Beaver Pond Campground.
Swimming options: Nickerson Beach Park provides swimming at its beach facilities during summer months. "The beach itself is a great place to spend a summer day and I have gone several times. They recently installed a path that goes all the way down to the beach area so you don't have to walk on the sand for so long," writes Ethan K. about Nickerson Beach Park Campground.
What campers like
Urban proximity: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unmatched access to Manhattan. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay!" shares Emily L. from her experience at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Campground layout: Battle Row Campground provides spacious, private tent sites. "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," mentions Michael M., who stayed at Battle Row Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Cathedral Pines County Park offers peaceful wildlife encounters. "Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," warns Connor M. about his stay at Cathedral Pines.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Heckscher State Park Campground fills quickly during peak season. "The highlight of Heckscher State Park is the newly constructed heated cottages located on the shore of Nichol's & Great South Bays. There are currently 11 cottages with more under construction," explains Ellen C., adding that cottages "range in price from $225-$285 per night during off peak seasons and $250-$320 per night during the peak seasons."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness vary widely between campgrounds. At Skyline RV Camp, one visitor noted "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more."
Location changes: Skyline RV Camp recently relocated. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property," alerts John T. from his experience at Skyline RV Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Beaver Pond Campground offers dedicated play areas. "Has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," mentions Zorina N., making it ideal for families with children needing entertainment.
Beach cottages: For families seeking more comfort, Heckscher offers upgraded accommodations. "Modern facility with full kitchen accessories (coffee maker, plates, wine opener, can opener, silverware, pots, pans, cooking utensils, toaster, oven), sponge/dish liquid. Microwave," details W L., who adds that cottages include "propane fireplace, WiFi access, bathroom with shower, large screened in porch with bar height table and 4 chairs."
Security considerations: Smith Point County Park maintains regular patrols. "The park police are a bunch of over masculine jerks and take their duty a little too far with the drinking. Otherwise, it's perfect," notes Amber L., suggesting the campground prioritizes safety but strictly enforces rules.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: When traveling to rv sites near South Farmingdale, New York, avoid parkways with RVs. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. from his stay at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Site spacing: Smith Point County Park offers waterfront RV camping. "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," describes Patrick C., adding that facilities include "shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit."
Electric considerations: Many RV sites near South Farmingdale provide limited hookup options. At Cathedral Pines County Park, Junior D. found it was "a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites."
