Camping options near Calverton, New York span several Suffolk County parks offering varying levels of accessibility and amenities. The region features both wooded inland sites and coastal camping areas along the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak season, with cooler 50-65°F nights in spring and fall.
What to do
Beach activities at Smith Point County Park: Located in Shirley, this park offers direct ocean access with swimming areas. "Paradise. Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," notes Patrick C. from Smith Point County Park.
Boating and kayaking: Several campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities. At Indian Island County Park, campers can launch small watercraft. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities. I enjoy going here as it is easy for a quick weekend," reports Michael G.
Stargazing opportunities: Some beaches require permits for nighttime access. As Amber A. explains about Wildwood State Park, "You have to buy a stargazing permit to be out on the beach after sunset, which is kind of strange but really helps prevent hooligans from taking over the beach and destroying the serenity."
Wildlife observation: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides nature observation opportunities. "Alone with nature. Favorite place ever. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves," says Igor K., highlighting the natural setting.
What campers like
Beach proximity: The region's coastal campgrounds are prized for their location. At Wildwood State Park Campground, James O. notes, "My wife and I love this campground. It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound."
Diverse landscapes: The region offers camping in various terrains. "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," explains Amber A. about Wildwood.
Local attractions: Campgrounds serve as bases for exploring the area. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," shares Giselle P.
Wooded seclusion: Sears Bellows County Park offers more forest-based camping. "This hidden gem is located right in Hampton Bays and is the perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid. Tucked away in the woods is a beatiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites," Lexis N. reports.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. For Suffolk County parks, a Green Key card is needed. "I had to get a Suffolk county green key card. And then pay 50 dollars per night. It wasn't cheap but it's definitely cheaper than the hotels in the area," explains Fernando C. about Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly at Watch Hill. Rosie R. warns, "We were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long. Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!"
Limited privacy: Many sites lack seclusion. Michael G. reports about Wildwood, "Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through."
Fire pit policies: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings. "A little bit of a bummer on the rental for a firepit but the bathrooms are big and spacious," notes Megan B. regarding Wildwood State Park. Similarly, Ossama B. mentions, "Lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several parks offer dedicated recreation areas. At Indian Island County Park, Gino D. notes, "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids. There are dog friendly which was very nice."
Beach safety considerations: Ocean beaches have varying conditions. "A short walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean. Will definitely be back," says Michael about Smith's Point, while James O. cautions about Wildwood, "A little rocky on the north shore."
Noise levels: Family expectations should account for campground atmosphere. Courtney K. warns about Wildwood, "The other campers can be loud, so it's like a city of camping instead of the great outdoors."
Site selection strategy: At Cathedral Pines County Park, Connor M. advises, "The further camps are very far from facilities and the ones closer to the bathrooms are usually louder / taken up. Pretty cool little spot!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by park. About Indian Island County Park, Janelle G. reports, "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."
Site dimensions and access: Some parks have limitations for larger rigs. Junior D. notes about Cathedral Pines, "Was a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites."
Leveling and parking: Site conditions affect setup. Lori R. from Wildwood State Park Campground mentions, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Seasonal considerations: Water may be turned off in shoulder seasons. At Southaven County Park, Stephen P. recommends, "Electric and water is nice for pop up. Little pricey compared to nys parks."
