Camping near Bayport, New York provides access to a mix of wooded inland sites and oceanfront locations along Long Island's diverse coastline. Suffolk County parks dominate the camping landscape with year-round availability at several locations, while state parks typically operate seasonally from late spring through early fall. Most campgrounds require Suffolk County's Green Key card for resident rates, which costs approximately $30 annually and provides discounted access.
What to do
Hiking trails at Cathedral Pines: The wooded terrain at Cathedral Pines County Park offers peaceful walking paths through pine forests. "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," notes one visitor, making this a good option for campers seeking a forest setting.
Kayaking and boating: Blydenburgh County Park features a sizeable lake with rental options. A camper explained, "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail. 30 or so sites around a central public restroom."
Beach activities and swimming: Smith Point County Park offers direct ocean access from campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," mentions a visitor. For families, note that some sites have "fantastic direct bay view" while others may have views "blocked by seagrass."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report regular deer sightings. At Smith Point, one camper noted, "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer." Bring a camera but maintain appropriate distance from wildlife.
What campers like
Beach proximity: The oceanfront camping at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground receives consistent praise. A camper reported, "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it."
Clean facilities: Despite high usage, most campground bathrooms receive positive reviews. At Indian Island County Park, a visitor noted, "Bathrooms and showers were a good size. Rangers were driving around often but had no issues with drink in red cups."
Varied accommodation options: Heckscher State Park Campground offers beachside cabins alongside traditional campsites. A review highlights, "Modern facility with full kitchen accessories (coffee maker, plates, wine opener, can opener, silverware, pots, pans, cooking utensils, toaster, oven), sponge/dish liquid. Microwave."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds prioritize family activities. One camper at Heckscher shared, "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes present significant challenges at several campgrounds, particularly those near water. At Watch Hill, one camper warned, "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend."
Site privacy varies significantly: Many Suffolk County campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal separation between sites. At Wildwood State Park Campground, a camper noted, "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'."
Fire pit requirements: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings. At Indian Island County Park, a visitor advised, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there."
Reservation planning: Suffolk County parks require membership before booking. One camper at Blydenburgh suggested, "If your going to be on Long Island, Suffolk county is really only RV friendly place. Worth buying green key card for resident access. 200 but you'd spend that 4 nights regardless."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas specifically for children. At Blydenburgh County Park, a visitor mentioned, "This park is about 6 minutes away from our home. It's a small park. It's great if you have little ones. Dogs are welcome. There's a large dog run so the fur babies will have a great time too."
Beach safety: Rocky shorelines require proper footwear. At Wildwood State Park, one camper advised, "Beach is beautiful, very rocky, bring your water shoes, sunset scenery is beautiful! Kids were roaming freely and safe!"
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds have active social scenes, especially on weekends. A Smith Point camper mentioned, "The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because of the fact that since it so tight, people failed to respect their neighbors as far as noise is concerned. Not EVERYBODY likes the same music as you do!"
Additional activities: Several campgrounds offer programming beyond standard amenities. At Heckscher, a visitor reported, "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location and site. At Indian Island County Park, one RVer noted, "No sewers sites that I could tell, and water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening. Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving (2 night visit)."
Site selection: Research specific site details before booking. At Smith Point County Park, a camper explained, "Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. 10 would be better. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger. The 230-70 overlook the ocean which is great."
Seasonal considerations: Services may be limited in shoulder seasons. A visitor to Indian Island shared, "Nice location but previous campers did not clean up after their visit. Shore power was without any problems and park has clean heated bathroom and bike station near dump site."
