Tent campsites near Woodmere, New York sit at elevations between 40-100 feet above sea level in the coastal plains of Long Island and surrounding areas. Most camping options require driving 30-60 minutes from Woodmere due to the densely populated suburban layout. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience 50-70°F with less rainfall than inland New York locations.
What to do
Beach access: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, tent camping puts you steps from the Atlantic shoreline. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," notes Inocencia O. Swimmers should note that lifeguards are only on duty during summer months.
Hiking trails: The trail system at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of marked paths ranging from flat terrain to moderate climbs. "This is a great place for camping. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area," explains Ethan K. Trail maps are available at the park office.
Water activities: Greenwood Lake at Sebago Cabin Camp allows swimming, kayaking, and fishing during warmer months. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," writes Ethan K. The lake has designated swimming areas with roped-off sections for safety.
What campers like
Privacy options: Some tent sites near Woodmere offer more seclusion than others. At Battle Row Campground, "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," according to Michael M. Sites 1-5 typically provide the most separation from other campers.
Unique camping experiences: For campers seeking distinctive settings, Pleasant Valley Lavender offers tent sites adjacent to flowering fields. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," writes Ellen K.
Lean-to shelters: Traditional Adirondack-style shelters provide a compromise between tent camping and cabin stays. "Ward Pound Ridge is very well known to the locals as a great place for sled-riding in winter (Pell Hill area) and a place for big group gatherings. The many different trails are frequented by the locals as well," explains Ming R. Lean-tos typically fit 4-6 campers on wooden platforms.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Many camping areas near Woodmere require specific access methods. At Sandy Hook, "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" advises Christy K. Plan to bring collapsible carts or backpacks for gear transport.
Insects and wildlife: Mosquitoes present challenges at several tent campgrounds in the region. At Watch Hill Fire Island, one camper reported, "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." Bug nets, screens, and repellent are essential between May-September.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, "Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long," notes Lee D. Many tent camping areas only offer vault toilets or portable units without shower facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Tip Tam Camping Resort offers family-focused amenities near tent sites. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," writes Jenn M. Scheduled weekend activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tent site selection: When camping with children, site location matters for both convenience and safety. At Croton Point Park, "Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. Dumpster and water near sites," advises Jonathan C. Request sites closer to restrooms when traveling with small children.
Food storage: Wildlife encounters require proper food management at tent sites. At Sandy Hook, the campground provides "metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," according to Craig M. Never leave food items in tents overnight.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent camping areas near Woodmere allow small RVs but have significant restrictions. Battle Row Campground's setup is "old and there isn't much there, but it depends on why you're camping whether that matters to you. We wanted to be by the beach and we were," explains katrina M. Maximum RV lengths typically range from 24-30 feet at most tent campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, visitors can access both while maintaining a natural setting. "Sites are nice and clean. The bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Over all a good place," notes Bill V. Request utility information when making reservations, as not all tent camping areas offer hookups.
