Suffolk County offers several camping sites near Center Moriches, New York that range from coastal beaches to wooded inland areas. The region sits at sea level with sandy soil and maritime forests typical of Long Island's eastern shore. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during camping season, with cooler nights near water locations requiring extra layers.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park has direct ocean access with minimal walking. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes Ali O., highlighting the convenient beach proximity.
Kayaking: Southaven County Park offers affordable boat rentals for water exploration. "If you like water activities and hiking, then chances are you will probably like this campground. I like both, and really enjoyed my stay here. One great thing is that they do have some items you can rent- I rented a rowboat," shares Kari M.
Hiking: Cathedral Pines County Park features wooded trails through pine forests. "Wooded sites are lovely," explains Karen R., emphasizing the natural setting that makes this park distinct from coastal options.
Stargazing: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing. "Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," describes Inocencia O. about this unique camping location.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Wildwood State Park Campground offers various site arrangements. "This is a very nice campground with various kinds of sites. You can find sites that are less wooded and better suited to group camping, as well as sites that are a little more secluded," notes Giselle P.
Water views: Bay-facing sites at Smith's Point provide direct water views. "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," Patrick C. explains.
Wildlife encounters: The local deer population interacts with campers at several parks. "You get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," mentions Tim M. when describing Smith's Point, while another camper noted watching deer nursing their young.
Off-grid experience: Sears Bellows County Park appeals to those seeking basic camping. "Perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid. Tucked away in the woods is a beautiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites, a lake with kayaking access, and trails," states Lexis N.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Suffolk County parks typically require a Green Key membership for county residents. "You have to be a resident of Suffolk Co, NY," Tim M. notes about Smith Point, though many parks do accommodate non-residents with day-use fees.
Mosquito preparation: Multiple campgrounds report significant insect activity, especially near water. "Come with deet repellent as mosquitos are vicious," warns Pedro R. about Watch Hill, while another camper described being "eaten alive" despite using repellent.
Site proximity: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach," Karen R. explains about Smith Point County Park, highlighting the tradeoff between beach access and site seclusion.
Fire pit variations: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings. "A little bit of a bummer on the rental for a firepit," Megan B. mentions about Wildwood State Park, while at Indian Island "the campsites don't come with a fire ring," according to Maxime T.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Indian Island County Park features multiple play areas. "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids," reports Gino D., making this park particularly suitable for younger children.
Water safety: Ocean beaches have varying swimming conditions. "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," notes Giselle P. about Wildwood State Park, though she mentions "it is a downhill walk to the beach" which parents should consider with small children.
Group activities: Several campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. "I usually host group camping trips and the single vehicle rule makes that very difficult," mentions Giselle P., indicating Wildwood State Park has restrictions families should know about when planning multi-family outings.
Ice cream access: Smith Point features seasonal treats. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by," shares Tim M., mentioning an amenity particularly appreciated by families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV sites require minimal adjustment. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," describes Lori R. about Wildwood State Park.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by campground. "There are sites with electric, water but those fill up fast," Michael G. explains about Indian Island County Park, indicating the need to book well in advance.
Campground layout: Smith Point County Park divides camping areas by the bay and ocean. "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," advises Gianna.
Parking restrictions: Vehicle limits apply at most campgrounds. "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles," notes Giselle P. about Wildwood State Park.
