Tent campsites near Amagansett, New York extend beyond Fire Island to include options in Connecticut and Rhode Island within a 1-2 hour drive. Most locations operate seasonally from May through September with varying reservation requirements. The Long Island region offers a mix of coastal camping with several sites requiring boat or ferry access, providing separation from the mainland and distinctive maritime environments.
What to do
Beach exploration: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides direct access to ocean beaches. A camper noted, "Take a quick walk down to the beach" and many enjoy swimming despite occasional challenges from horseflies during summer months.
Stargazing opportunities: The relative isolation from urban light pollution makes Fire Island National Seashore exceptional for night sky viewing. According to reviews, the lack of development creates "a beautiful serene look at nature" with clear views of stars over the ocean.
Paddling excursions: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires kayaking to reach its island location. One visitor reported, "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island," making the journey part of the adventure. Waterproof gear bags are recommended due to boat wake on the Connecticut River.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Many tent sites offer significant privacy despite the popular beach region. One camper at Hidden Lake Farm praised the "Quiet and Private" setting, with only 5 total sites available.
Natural soundscapes: Campsites near water features provide distinctive audio environments. A camper described, "Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," highlighting the sensory experience beyond visual elements.
Walking-distance amenities: Not all tent camping requires complete isolation. Watch Hill campers appreciate that "There are shops, a restaurant and a bar a 10 minute walk away," providing convenience while maintaining a nature-focused experience.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Most island campsites require specific transport planning. At Chapman Pond Preserve, users should prepare for a hike-in experience to reach what one reviewer called a "Middle of nowhere site" with basic platforms and picnic tables.
Insect preparedness: Multiple reviews highlight significant insect challenges. One camper warned, "Mosquitoes are extremely potent and plentiful. Take the good stuff," while another advised bringing "a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net" for meal times.
Permit requirements: Fire Island National Seashore requires reservations between March 15 and Labor Day with weekend minimums. A reviewer clarified, "Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between March 15 and labor day."
Tips for camping with families
Children's programs: Several campsites offer structured activities. Watch Hill provides ranger-led programs, with one visitor noting, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
Protected swimming areas: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers riverside camping with swimming access. A reviewer shared, "You can swim and fish and relax all day" with views of the Connecticut River.
Beach-to-campsite distance: When camping with children, consider travel distance between water and tent. Watch Hill campers mention, "It is a little less than a half mile walk from the ferry dock" with all travel along boardwalks, requiring planning for gear transport.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping options near Amagansett have minimal or no RV facilities. Watch Hill campers note bringing "two carts full of stuff" on boardwalks, indicating terrain unsuitable for vehicles.
Alternative shelter options: Some locations offer cabins alongside tent sites for those seeking more structure. Frontier Family Camper Park provides seasonal accommodations from May through September with reservations recommended.
Water access considerations: For sites with water access, plan on temperature fluctuations. One camper mentioned, "It was a little cooler so showering was not that great" regarding unheated beach showers at Watch Hill, suggesting morning or midday washing during warmer hours.
