Smith Point County Park sits on the Atlantic shore of Long Island, about 16 miles from Babylon. The park features camping areas between ocean and bay with a mix of sand dunes and maritime forest habitat. The sites lack shade cover and summer temperatures typically range 75-85°F with high humidity. For glamping close to Babylon, New York, several parks offer elevated outdoor experiences with varying levels of amenities and locations along both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean.
What to do
Beach access: Smith Point County Park offers direct ocean access with sandy beaches. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes Ali O. "1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean," adds another visitor.
Hiking trails: Mountain Lakes Park features multiple trails and scenic overlooks. "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind," reports Ethan K. The park contains "lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
Kayaking: Indian Island County Park provides water access for paddlers. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch," explains Michael G. The park's location between Flanders Bay and the Peconic River creates multiple paddling options.
Wine country access: Luxury glamping experiences near Babylon allow easy access to Long Island wineries. "My wife and I love this campground. It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island," shares James O. about his experiences at Wildwood State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise waterside locations. At Indian Island County Park, "the sites close to water are nice. They offer more to see and feel a little more like camping," notes one visitor. At Smith Point County Park, Stephen P. comments, "Sites are great overlooking the bay," while Patrick C. describes his experience: "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay."
Clean facilities: Many glamping sites near Babylon maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Bathroom lights are bright... Electric and water is nice for pop up," mentions a Smith Point visitor. Another camper at Indian Island notes, "The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide wildlife watching opportunities. One visitor to Wildwood State Park observed deer nursing their young: "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies."
Platform tent sites: For those seeking glamping near Babylon without an RV, raised sites offer comfort. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds solely because there are platform sites so I can place my tent on a concrete or wooden platform," explains Giselle P.
What you should know
Residency requirements: Some Suffolk County parks restrict camping to local residents. At Smith Point, one camper notes: "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY."
Fire ring policies: Several parks don't provide fire rings. "Lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own," mentions Ossama B. At Indian Island County Park, Maxime T. adds: "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring."
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited privacy between sites. "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach," notes Karen R. about Smith Point. Another camper describes the experience as "packed like Sardines."
Seasonal considerations: Not all water facilities operate year-round. "Water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening. Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there," explains Janelle G.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Wildwood State Park offers multiple play areas for children. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," says Giselle P., who also mentions "there are platform sites" ideal for family camping.
Noise levels: Be prepared for a social environment at some parks. "This is not a quiet campground, campers stay up late drinking by the fire. Kids of all ages are generally running and playing day and night in the loud and unreserved way they do," warns Ali O.
Beach conditions: The Long Island Sound beaches differ from ocean beaches. "Beach is beautiful, very rocky, bring your water shoes, sunset scenery is beautiful! Kids were roaming freely and safe!" advises one Wildwood visitor.
Activity options: For longer stays, consider nearby attractions. "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," shares a camper planning a family-friendly itinerary.
Tips from RVers
Site specifics: At Smith Point County Park, certain sites offer premium views. "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass," notes Gianna.
Hookup availability: Branchbrook Campground offers full hookups but recent management changes have affected the experience. "This was a beautiful campground up until 2 years ago when a new owner took over," cautions a reviewer who noted changes in clientele and noise levels.
RV site layout: Wildwood State Park has dedicated RV areas. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," says Lori R.
Parking limitations: Some parks restrict vehicles per site. "Recently they became very stringent about parking two vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles," warns a regular Wildwood visitor.
