Camping sites near Bay Shore, New York range from beachfront locations with Atlantic Ocean views to wooded settings in state parks. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 80-85°F and mild winters, making April through October the prime camping season. Most campsites require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when availability becomes limited.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park offers direct access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," notes one camper at Smith Point County Park.
Walking trails: Cathedral Pines County Park provides wooded paths for nature exploration. "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," shares one visitor. The park maintains several miles of hiking paths through pine forests with "occasional deer" sightings according to reviews of Cathedral Pines County Park.
Surfing: Nickerson Beach Park attracts water sports enthusiasts. "I grew up in Long Beach. If you're looking for a spot to camp so you can surf, this is perfect! It's steps away from some of the greatest waves on the east coast," writes a reviewer. The park also includes "a dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot" for pet owners.
What campers like
Urban proximity: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides convenient access to Manhattan. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains one camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park. Another adds, "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F."
Natural surroundings: Battle Row Campground offers secluded tent sites. "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy," notes one reviewer of Battle Row Campground. The park maintains a "clean" environment with "well maintained" bathrooms and includes "a playground for the kids."
Wildlife encounters: Smith's Point features opportunities to see local fauna. "The deer eat lettuce out of your hand. Shhhh- not supposed to feed the deer," reveals one camper. Another mentions the overall experience: "Being on the beach and camping in October is just awesome. The bugs are gone, the days are warm and the nights are chilly."
What you should know
Limited privacy: Most RV sites near Bay Shore, New York offer functional layouts rather than secluded camping. "Sites had water, electric and sewer hookups at each site" at some parks, while others provide only partial hookups. At Heckscher State Park Campground, "There is no distinguishing separation between each site nor a designated driveway for your car- you merely pull up on the grass."
Reservation complexity: Booking systems vary between parks. Some county parks require residency for reservations. Smith's Point has specific restrictions: "Suffolk County residents can get a yearly permit for the beach and camping." Non-residents may face additional fees or limited availability.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower conditions vary widely between parks. One camper reports, "The bathroom was very clean and well stocked" at Battle Row, while another notes at Heckscher: "The condition of women's room was absolutely ghastly inside."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. Battle Row Campground features "a playground for the kids" that is "centrally located" according to reviews. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, families appreciate the "children's playground" and "programs like movie nights throughout the summer."
Beach proximity: Consider distance to shoreline when booking with children. Smith's Point provides convenient beach access, with "sites overlooking the bay" and "literally steps to the beach." One camper mentions, "We stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view."
Noise levels: Expect varying quietness depending on location and season. "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," reports one Smith's Point visitor. For quieter conditions, consider weekday visits or off-season camping.
Tips from RVers
Access restrictions: RV campers must plan alternative routes due to parkway height limitations. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises one Liberty Harbor visitor.
Site considerations: Some parks offer full hookups while others provide only electric service. At Totoket Valley RV Park, expect "good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table." Several campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs, though not all sites are suitable for big rigs.
Seasonal operations: Check operating dates before planning RV trips to the area. Heckscher State Park operates "seasonally from May 26 to September 3" while Nickerson Beach runs "from April to November." Year-round RV camping options exist at Smith Point County Park and Cathedral Pines County Park.
