Sears Bellows County Park offers wooded campsites with water hookups for tents and RVs, located about 80 miles from New Haven, Connecticut. The park provides access to hiking trails and Bellows Pond for fishing and boating opportunities. Suffolk County parks in Long Island are accessible year-round with seasonal adjustments to services and facilities during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at Bellows Pond: Visitors can rent rowboats and fish at the pond within Sears Bellows County Park. "The next morning we got up and did some hiking. The trails were beautiful, and the flowers were in bloom. We also saw some people fishing in the pond- and it seemed like most people were catching," reports camper Nadia V.
Beach activities: Enjoy ocean and bay access for swimming, fishing, and crabbing at Shinnecock East. "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," shares Anthony M., who visits regularly.
Family hiking: The trail system through Sears Bellows offers various difficulty levels suitable for children and adults. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides. The bathrooms are in one area and the showers are in another area. Is good for dogs to the trails are nice and big," notes Gino D.
What campers like
Off-grid camping experience: Shinnecock East County Park provides beachside camping without electricity hookups. "Camping directly on the beach at one of the nicest beaches in the world. You cannot find another place like this!!" exclaims Kayla G. about the unique experience.
Peaceful woodland setting: The wooded environment at Sears Bellows creates a tranquil atmosphere away from urban noise. "This hidden gem is located right in Hampton Bays and is the perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid," writes Lexis N.
Multiple camping environments: Shinnecock offers different camping zones depending on preference. "Beautiful on the bay or ocean side. They also have a hill top section. Beautiful views," describes Lisa M. about the location options.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: A 4x4 vehicle is mandatory for Shinnecock East County Park beach camping. "4x4 a must, air down a must," warns Lisa M., emphasizing the importance of proper vehicle preparation for beach driving.
No electricity available: Sears Bellows does not provide electrical hookups at campsites. "The only down fall no electricity," mentions Vivian T., though generators are permitted according to other reviewers.
Tent restrictions: Shinnecock East prohibits tent camping and only allows RVs. "Dry camping in an RV no tents," notes Lisa M., which is important for those planning to visit without an RV or trailer.
Equestrian limitations: While searching for horse campgrounds near New Haven, Connecticut, visitors should note that neither Sears Bellows nor Shinnecock East advertises dedicated equestrian facilities or horse corrals. Contact park management directly to inquire about possible horse trailer parking or day-use riding permissions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sears Bellows County Park features a substantial playground area for children. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," mentions Gino D., making it suitable for families with younger children.
Water activities for various ages: Bellows Pond offers affordable rowboat rentals that appeal to both children and adults. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," shares Nadia V.
Biking opportunities: The trails at Sears Bellows accommodate family cycling activities. "They do have quite a bit of garbage's to dump your trash in. One thing I really liked about this campground is that there was a river/pond close by," notes Nadia V., who observed others biking on the trails.
Tips from RVers
Beach positioning: At Shinnecock East, RVers can choose between oceanside or bay views. "We go here at least once a year. The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass," shares Anthony M. about the positioning options.
Water hookups available: Despite limited amenities, both parks provide water connections. "Each camp site spot has a provided water hook up," confirms Lexis N. about Sears Bellows.
Waste disposal facilities: Both locations offer sanitary dump stations for RVs. The campgrounds maintain clean facilities, with Sears Bellows described as "very well kept & maintained" by Lexis N.
