Tent camping near Wantagh, New York offers several options within a 40-mile radius, with locations ranging from sea level beach sites to inland state park campgrounds. Most camping areas in this region sit at relatively low elevations between sea level and 400 feet, creating mild temperature conditions even during summer nights. Seasonal restrictions apply at many locations, with Fire Island National Seashore and Sandy Hook operating primarily from April through October due to coastal weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking networks at Ward Pound Ridge: Over 40 miles of trails wind through this reservation located about 45 miles north of Wantagh. "There are many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind. When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery," notes one Ward Pound Ridge Reservation visitor.
Beach activities at Sandy Hook: Located approximately 25 miles southwest across the bay in New Jersey, Sandy Hook offers swimming with lifeguards during summer months. According to a visitor, "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," making this Sandy Hook location convenient for Wantagh campers seeking ocean recreation.
Urban exploration at Staten Island: The Staten Island camping area provides unusual urban camping experiences with historical structures nearby. "There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," mentions one visitor to Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area.
What campers like
Private tent sites at Battle Row: Located in Old Bethpage about 15 minutes from Wantagh, Battle Row features secluded tent camping spaces. "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had 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," explains a Battle Row Campground visitor.
Rustic cabin options at Sebago: For campers seeking minimal shelter while tent camping near Wantagh, Sebago offers basic cabins. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports one Sebago Cabin Camp visitor.
Access to multiple recreational areas: Several campgrounds provide central locations for exploring multiple natural areas. At Mountain Lakes, "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary significantly: Not all campgrounds permit open fires, and those that do have specific regulations. At Battle Row, "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. The sites all have a table and raised BBQ 'pit' for cooking only."
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons are active at several campgrounds in the region. Croton Point Park requires food storage precautions: "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns one Croton Point Park visitor.
Reservation systems differ: Some campgrounds require advance planning and specific reservation methods. Ward Pound Ridge requires in-person booking: "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: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment suitable for younger campers. Battle Row includes "a playground for the kids" while Croton Point offers additional recreation: "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids."
Ranger programs at Fire Island: Educational opportunities exist at Watch Hill on Fire Island. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids," notes one visitor to Watch Hill Fire Island Campground.
Weekend activities at Sebago: Organized events provide entertainment for families. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," mentions a visitor, highlighting scheduled programming that doesn't require additional planning for parents.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV camping options: Few campgrounds near Wantagh accommodate larger recreational vehicles. At Croton Point, "They have a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites," though one visitor noted the "reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail."
Utilities at Battle Row: Electric and water hookups are available at select sites. "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!" according to one visitor.
