Camping options near Woodmere, New York offer mixed urban-coastal experiences within 30-60 minutes of this southern Long Island community. Located at 20 feet above sea level, Woodmere sits along Atlantic coastal lowlands where summer temperatures average 80°F with high humidity. Several campgrounds provide access to both shore recreation and city exploration opportunities, with Suffolk County offering the most accommodations for RV travelers seeking hookups.
What to do
Beach recreation: 7-mile hiking loop at Blydenburgh County Park provides lakeside exploration options. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail," reports one visitor. The park permits dogs and features well-marked trails.
Cycling and beach trails: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers designated paths along the waterfront. "There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride. There is a cost to enter the park (unless you bike in) but it's free after 5:00," notes one camper. The recreation area combines cycling and beach access.
Historical exploration: Military history exhibits at Gateway National Recreation Area showcase aviation artifacts. "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes," writes one visitor who appreciated learning about Amelia Earhart's connection to the site.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Battle Row Campground maintains well-kept grounds and bathrooms. "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful," shares one camper who appreciated the electric and water hookups.
Tent site privacy: Some Long Island campgrounds offer secluded tent areas. "The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids. Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy," notes a Battle Row Campground visitor who appreciates the tucked-away sites.
Urban-wilderness balance: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides convenience to NYC attractions. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center," explains a reviewer who valued the strategic location.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Long Island and nearby New Jersey campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for waterfront sites in summer months.
Beach usage policies: Pet restrictions apply at some beach campgrounds. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, "Campsite allows dogs, however, the beach does not. They have a small dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot," reports a visitor.
Site amenities: Fire pit availability varies considerably. 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," explains one camper who notes sites include tables and raised BBQ pits for cooking.
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds affect some campgrounds. At Cheesequake State Park Campground, "We camped here once because it was easy for part of our family to get to from NYC. Sites were a little too close together... If you're truly looking to get away from it all I would go elsewhere since the parkway runs through/over the park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly recreational facilities. Cheesequake State Park offers hiking trails suitable for children with varying difficulty levels. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need," notes a visitor.
Sandy Hook activities: Collective Governors Island provides unique family camping experiences. The article "mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city," according to one review.
Swimming options: Not all waterfront campgrounds permit swimming. At Blydenburgh County Park, "Lake is great and only a short walk, but no swimming. Sites are open and fairly close would be only negative," reports one visitor. Families should verify swimming access before booking.
Tips from RVers
Parkway navigation challenges: RVers should avoid New York parkways with height restrictions. "It's hard to get to with an RV due to the parkways. Google Maps doesn't have an option for large vehicles so I made my way manually and the trip took an extra hour or more to arrive than planned," warns a Nickerson Beach Park visitor who suggests mapping routes specifically for large vehicles.
Site availability: Seasonal demand affects RV site access. "This is a small beach campground. It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day. Still, it is a clean and well run campground. Easy beach access," shares a Nickerson Beach camper who recommends booking well in advance.
Space limitations: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers minimal site separation. "If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" notes a visitor highlighting the tradeoff between proximity and privacy.
