The best camping in Hempstead Lake State Park, NY

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Discover the allure of Hempstead Lake State Park's outdoor activities.  

The best camping in Hempstead Lake State Park, NY

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Comfy camper by the bay in Rockaway

100%
(11)
9.8mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site · Lodging
The Terry is an adorable vintage 1970’s camper trailer nestled in the back corner secret garden area of Marina 59, a marina on the bayside of Far Rockaway, Queens, NYC filled with creative structures, beautiful boats and wonderful wildlife. The RV has a queen size bed that comfortably fits 2. There is a new, powerful AC, a toaster oven, a fridge, a hot water kettle, and all the kitchen basics. The bathrooms, with large comfortable showers, are a quick walk away at the Marina entrance. Your rental includes parking in the marina lot and a clicker to come and go as desired. Outside the doors, there’s a decent super market, a Dunkin’ Donuts, and a gas station. The beach is only three blocks away. The beach where numerous surf lessons take place is 9 blocks away. We are close to JFK airport - super convenient, but you will hear some plane traffic overhead. We're the perfect spot to stay if you have a layover at the airport and want to head to the beach. The marina is also home to Sail Rockaway, that has sailing lessons and trips along the beautiful Jamaica Bay. Great birdwatching as well because we are located at the edge of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. It's truly a magical spot! In addition, I've opened a shipping container store, Tree Rock NYC, right by the bathroom. Please stop in and check us out! The Terry is a perfect retreat for surfers, sun lovers, bird watchers and anyone who loves to enjoy all that Rockaway has to offer. And it’s an easy breezy subway / bus / ferry / drive away from the city! In summer, there are surfing classes, sailing and fishing trips, and numerous concerts and performances. I'm very willing to help you find the fun and adventure you seek here in Rockaway.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$96
 / night

2. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

92%
(203)
17mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 58 sites · RVs
Welcome to Skyline RV Camp! The only RV Camp Site in New York City! Skyline RV Camp is more than just a place to park; it’s a gateway to the heart of the city. Convenient access to public transportation makes it easy to explore the vibrant neighborhoods, world-class dining, and cultural attractions that make New York City one of a kind. The campground is located at 50 Noble Street in trendy yet relaxed Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The lot is private property and is monitored by the 24/7 security in the adjacent building. The subway is 4 blocks away (G Train, Greenpoint Ave stop), which will take you to the city in under 30 minutes. The Greenpoint Ferry stop is a few blocks away, which will take you to midtown Manhattan in no time! Please note that you might benefit from using a trucker app called "Trucker Path" while getting here, since in some areas of Brooklyn, you can't drive an RV. Before completing your booking, we strongly recommend visiting our official website to review the most up-to-date information on seasonal operations, amenity availability, and any temporary service adjustments.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$85
 / night

4. Wildflower Hill

100%
(14)
43mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent
Nestled on the ridgeline of the 3rd Watchung Mountain, the property sits above The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You'll be in a neighborhood, for sure, but a quiet one with lots of room for people and pets to stretch. The property has a 3000 square foot Summer wildflower field with a cozy tent spot in the center. There is also a grand flat grass area for setting up multiple tents. A 100-foot dog trolley run spans the land so your fluffy can run and stay close, too. Numerous outdoor chairs and tables are set up in various spots to best enjoy the land. There is a fire pit and free firewood available. Use of up to two 8-foot single kayaks or a single 17-foot canoe is available. The Passaic River has a number of drop-in spots nearby and Round Valley and Spruce Run reservoirs are a short drive. Hiking trails go throughout the Great Swamp. They have a terrific education center and the famous Raptor Trust.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night

5. Destination Farnch

94%
(144)
47mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents
The Farnch: A developing Destination Farm Come have a picnic under a tree, spend a few hours and go for a hike in Hudson Highland Gateway Park, a Historic 352-acre park offering hiking, birding, cross-country skiing, fishing & snowshoeing. He have rods and tackle to rent or buy if you don’t have your own. If you’re having a really great time and the kids just don’t want to leave, join us for an evening of sleeping under the stars in the forest at one of our campsites. We also host local Scout Groups, and Appellation Trail hikers. Hikers know that we are located about 1 miles south of the route 9 trail crossing at the Appalachian Market and offer pick up and drop off service from there on weekends. Hudson Valley is a wonderful 4 season go to location and being about an hour away from New York City you won’t spend hours in the car before being able to stretch your legs.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

7. Summer Hut

8.6mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Welcome to our cozy and fully equipped travel trailer, located in the quiet residential neighborhood of Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York. This stationary RV is fully connected to electricity, city water, and sewer, and is parked on a private driveway by the house. Guests have a separate entrance and private access. There’s a small flowerbed in front and easy, contactless check-in. ⸻ Perfect for: • 2 adults • Families with 1–2 children • Up to 4 guests total (2 adults + 2 kids) ⸻ Sleeping Arrangements: • Queen-size bed for two adults • Two separate bunk beds — great for kids or extra guests • No need to convert the dining area — all beds are fixed and ready ⸻ Inside the RV: • Air conditioning and heating • Wi-Fi and TV • Full bathroom with shower and toilet • Kitchen with stovetop, microwave, refrigerator, sink, coffee maker, and utensils • Storage space • Clean, comfortable, and well-maintained interior ⸻ Nearby Attractions: • Cunningham Park — trails, biking paths, picnic areas • Flushing Meadows–Corona Park — Unisphere, Citi Field, USTA Tennis Center • Queens Botanical Garden • St. John’s University • Fresh Meadows Shopping Center and AMC movie theater ⸻ Transportation: • Multiple local MTA bus lines nearby • Express bus to Manhattan (approx. 40 minutes to Midtown) • Easy access to the LIE (I-495) highway • Free street parking available ⸻ Additional Information: • Guests have access only to the RV and front area • Backyard is not accessible • Pets allowed upon approval • No smoking inside the RV • Quiet neighborhood — no parties • Self check-in available
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$200
 / night

8. 60's Surf Camper

83%
(50)
11mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 3 sites · Lodging
Located in the heart of Rockaway Beach NYC, this vintage 1963 Shasta camper is perfect for a small getaway with a few pals to enjoy the sun and the surf! Take a trip back in time! The camper can sleep up to 4, where the second bed is created from the seating area. There is a beautiful city view over the bay that can be seen from the seating area. All linens are provided. A fridge to keep your drinks ice cold, a BBQ, 2 beach chairs with umbrella, a cooler, and a coffee maker with coffee, are all yours to enjoy and are included free in the rental! We also have two surfboards available to rent for an extra fee. Guests have access to a private toilet, and an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a long day on the beach or shredding the surf. Fishing, and the most amazing city view sunsets are just a 1 minute walk up the block to the bay park. Quality Wifi is included.The Atlantic ocean, the beach, concession stands, and our wonderful new boardwalk are just a few short blocks away, a 4 minute walk. Great neighborhood restaurants and bars are within walking distance. Rent a surf board and hit of the surf beaches or just head to the beach to relax. Perfect for couples or a small family getaway, come and enjoy this vintage camper, and all that this beach town has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$117
 / night

9. Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront

88%
(4)
17mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 41 sites · RVs
Stellar Views and Fresh Waters - New York City has never looked better! Welcome to Skyline RV Camp! The only RV Camp Site in New York City! The campground is located at 1 Noble Street in trendy yet relaxed Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Our RV Site offers a great location right next to the East River with views of the Manhattan Skyline, featuring hookup-only sites. The lot is private property and is monitored by the 24/7 security in the adjacent building. The subway is 4 blocks away (G Train, Greenpoint Ave stop), which will take you to the city in under 30 minutes. The Greenpoint Ferry stop is a few blocks away, which will take you to midtown Manhattan in no time! Please note that you may benefit from using a trucker app called "Trucker Path" during your journey, as some areas of Brooklyn do not permit RVs. Before completing your booking, we strongly recommend visiting our official website to review the most up-to-date information on seasonal operations, amenity availability, and any temporary service adjustments.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$130
 / night

10. Little Bit Of Country On LI

20mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to a charming two-bedroom park model camper on a serene micro-farm in Bay Shore, New York! This cozy retreat features a full kitchen, a comfortable living room, climate control, and a lovely front deck. It’s the perfect romantic getaway for couples and can also accommodate two to three children comfortably. Just minutes from the train to NYC, 10 minutes from the Fire Island ferries, 1 hour and 15 minutes to the North Fork wine country, and 1.5 hours from Montauk Point — it’s a great home base for your Long Island adventures. 🏡 The Space Set on a small working homestead, this private park model camper is bright, roomy, and offers excellent climate control. Wake up to the crow of roosters, enjoy a relaxing campfire with free firewood, and make use of the shared outdoor amenities: • Picnic tables • Barbecue grills • Cornhole • Outdoor tables and chairs • Indoor and outdoor hot showers • Beach essentials like a cooler, umbrella, and chairs It’s a fantastic spot for a couple or a family with children. Please note: the top bunk bed is designed for children only and is not suitable for adults or two separate couples.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$158
 / night

11. William H Pouch Scout Camp

26mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to William H. Pouch Scout Camp, an easily accessible oasis in Staten Island’s Greenbelt. This premier camping destination offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, lean-tos, and tent sites, all surrounded by scenic hiking trails. With a climbing wall, archery range, and a lake for fishing and boating, Camp Pouch has everything needed for a memorable outdoor adventure in New York City. Scouts, families, and units can book a campsite, cabin, or lean-to, or reserve space at Berlin Lodge. Groups may also visit for hikes or unit meetings by completing a scheduling form to secure their spot. Discover adventure in your own backyard! William H. Pouch Scout Camp offers New York City and New Jersey families a scenic escape without the long drive. Nestled in a serene forest with a beautiful lake, Camp Pouch is ideal for day trips or weekend getaways—giving families the chance to unwind, explore nature, and connect, all within easy reach of the city.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$136
 / night

17. Nickerson Beach Campground

6.8mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 1 site
Discover the unique charm of Nickerson Beach Park, a stunning 155-acre beachfront oasis nestled along the Atlantic Ocean on Long Island’s south shore. Since its establishment in 1967, this park has been a cherished part of the Nassau County, NY park system and is currently managed by the Dover Group. Nickerson Beach Park stands out for its diverse range of recreational amenities, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained campgrounds, expansive ball fields, and volleyball courts. For golf lovers, the park features a delightful par 3 golf course. In addition to its beautiful beach, Nickerson Beach Park offers inviting swimming pools and private cabanas, ensuring a perfect day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Before planning your visit, be sure to check our frequently asked questions page for helpful information to enhance your experience. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, nearby dining options, or simply a place to unwind, Nickerson Beach Park has something for everyone.

20. Liberty Harbor RV Park

21mi from Hempstead Lake State Park · 22 sites
Liberty Harbor RV Park stands out as the closest RV park to New York City, offering breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island right from the property. This unique location allows guests to experience the vibrancy of the city while enjoying the comforts of an RV park. Open year-round, Liberty Harbor RV Park welcomes visitors 365 days a year and offers 24/7 check-in, ensuring convenience regardless of your arrival time. The NY Waterway Ferry departs from the park, providing weekday service to Pier 11 at Wall Street, while additional ferry options are just a short walk away and operate daily. For those preferring to travel by subway, the Grove St. PATH station is only five blocks up Marin Blvd, connecting you to key destinations like 33rd Street and the World Trade Center Site. With Manhattan just a quick 15-minute ride away, you can choose to stay for a day, a week, or even longer. Our friendly staff is always available to assist you with maps and directions to local attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit. You can also check your email, receive packages, or send faxes from our office, and we even provide postcards for you to share your adventures with friends. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, we accommodate

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The best camping in Hempstead Lake State Park, NY guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Hempstead Lake State Park, where the great outdoors beckons with a plethora of activities. Engage in tennis, pickleball, and basketball, or explore the scenic trails on horseback, bike, or foot. Cast a line in the freshwater lakes, teeming with fish, or paddle quietly in a kayak. For a unique celebration, the historic carousel offers a whimsical backdrop for any event.

When to go

The best times to visit Hempstead Lake State Park are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers longer days for exploration, though it can be quite warm. Winters are quieter and serene, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience amid the park's diverse activities.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with features like accessible fishing and playgrounds to welcome all visitors.
  • Remember to bring proof of rabies inoculation for your pets, as they are welcome in designated areas.
  • Plan your visit around the park's hours, open from sunrise to sunset, to maximize your adventure time.
  • For a seamless entry, consider purchasing the Empire Pass for unlimited day-use access to most state-operated locations.

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