Camping near Bayville, New York offers varying terrain from dense forest settings to coastal shorelines along Long Island Sound. Located on the North Shore of Long Island, campsites in this region typically sit at elevations under 100 feet, with most coastal options nearly at sea level. Spring and fall camping seasons bring mild temperatures from 55-75°F with lower humidity than the peak summer months.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, the entire shoreline area provides easy water access. "There is an indoor bathroom/shower room that is open here for 3 seasons too," notes camper Megan B., who appreciates the Atlantic Ocean proximity. The campground provides a dedicated path to the beach area to avoid walking on sand for too long.
Hiking trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails with varied difficulty levels. "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area," writes Ethan K. The reservation includes elevation gains, creek access, and open fields for stargazing.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds within driving distance offer opportunities to spot local fauna. At Blydenburgh County Park, campers frequently observe rabbits and deer. One visitor noted, "The hiking trails were quiet natural and and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked," highlighting the undisturbed natural environment that supports wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Lake activities: Beaver Pond Campground offers easy access to Welch Lake with swimming and small watercraft options. "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," writes Steve W. The park maintains buoyed swimming areas during summer months.
Private camping shelters: Some sites provide unique accommodations beyond standard tent spaces. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, the shelter sites receive high marks for comfort and privacy. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," according to Jeremy S., while another camper added, "All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight maintenance standards at Heckscher State Park Campground. "They toilets are cleaned constantly, though they are not immaculate," notes Giselle P. Another camper observed, "Facilities (bathroom/showers) were clean, campsites were generously spaced, water spouts at almost every site."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Site proximity differs dramatically between campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, "Tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can." Jonathan C. adds that "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm." Meanwhile, Battle Row Campground offers more isolated sites, with one camper noting, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy."
Reservation requirements: Booking protocols vary by location. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation requires in-person reservations with no online option. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office," explains Anil S. Many campgrounds in the region fill completely during summer weekends, requiring advance planning.
Seasonal limitations: Swimming availability follows strict seasonal patterns. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite." Most campground beaches operate with lifeguards present, limiting swimming to designated hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row Campground provides centralized recreation facilities. "The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids," shares Michael M., adding that "It's great if your local easy in and out." Multiple campgrounds within 30 miles of Bayville feature dedicated play areas exclusively for campground guests.
Entertainment options: Many parks organize seasonal activities for younger visitors. Heckscher State Park occasionally hosts special events: "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," reports Giselle P., highlighting unexpected entertainment options.
Nature education: Several locations offer environmental learning opportunities. Beaver Pond Campground provides access to Bear Mountain State Park with historical trail markers. The Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation receives positive mentions from families with children interested in local ecology.
Tips from RVers
Bridge height awareness: When traveling to Long Island campgrounds, RV owners face specific challenges with parkway restrictions. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, one RVer warns, "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges and getting the tops ripped off like a tin can." Plan alternate routes using highways rather than parkways.
Site selection priorities: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, positioning matters for comfort. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S. Most campgrounds offer varied site configurations with significant differences in privacy and access.
Hookup limitations: Water and electric service varies widely between campgrounds. Blydenburgh Park receives positive reviews for its utility access: "Very clean campgrounds lots of space. Not much to do inside the grounds," notes Maria P. Most full-hookup sites require advance booking during peak season months.
