Camping options near Center Moriches, New York place visitors between the North and South Shores of Long Island, with access to both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean beaches. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cooler nights around 60-65°F. Many campgrounds in Suffolk County remain open from April through October, with a few offering year-round accommodations.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides direct ocean access with minimal walking. "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach," notes one visitor. The park connects both the ocean and bay sides with accessible walkways.
Hiking opportunities: Cathedral Pines County Park features wooded walking trails through pine forests. "Wooded sites are lovely," reports a camper who appreciated the natural setting. The park offers shaded hiking paths suitable for all ability levels.
Water recreation: Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers swimming and boating activities. "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child... The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails," shares a long-time visitor. The beach features both rocky and sandy sections depending on tides.
Wine tasting: Wildwood State Park Campground provides access to Long Island's wine country. "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound," explains one camper. Several vineyards operate within 10-15 miles of the campground.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: At Hither Hills State Park Campground, campers appreciate the beach setting. "The beach is just over the dunes. Village Pizza is remarkably good," shares one visitor. The park offers sites with ocean views and easy beach access.
Wildlife encounters: Heckscher State Park Campground features frequent animal sightings. "Wildlife: deer, rabbits, turtles," notes one reviewer who stayed in the beachside cottages. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Spacious camping areas: Cathedral Pines County Park offers more room between sites than other area campgrounds. "Was a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites," reports a recent visitor. Wooded sections provide more privacy than open field areas.
Convenient rv sites near Center Moriches: Wildwood State Park provides pull-through sites with full hookups. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig," mentions a first-time RV owner. The campground accommodates various RV sizes with 30/50-amp service options.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Hither Hills State Park requires advance planning. "Must reserve early in the year for summer spots," advises a camper. Popular weekend dates often book 9-12 months in advance, particularly for waterfront sites.
Beach conditions: Rocky Neck State Park features variable shoreline terrain. "Great Beach, but beware, it can be crowded!!!! So get their early if you do go to the beach," suggests a frequent visitor. Morning arrival before 9am typically ensures parking availability.
Bathroom facilities: Cathedral Pines County Park receives mixed reviews on facilities. "Bathroom lights are bright," notes one camper comparing different Suffolk County parks. Most campgrounds clean bathrooms daily, though frequency varies by location.
Residency requirements: For motorhome and travel trailer sites near Center Moriches, be aware of local restrictions. "YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY," cautions a Smith Point County Park visitor about their strict policy. Non-residents should verify access before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: North Fork Cottages & RV Resort receives positive feedback from families. "First time going, but best vacation ever according to kids," shares one parent. The campground provides recreational facilities specifically for children.
Safety considerations: Heckscher State Park offers family-friendly security. "Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe," reports a solo camper who appreciated the regular patrols. Park rangers monitor campgrounds throughout the evening hours.
Noise levels: Smith Point County Park maintains an active atmosphere. "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," explains a visitor who enjoyed the social environment. Families seeking a quieter experience should request sites farther from central areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping near Center Moriches, Wildwood State Park offers various options. "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site," explains one pop-up camper user. Corner sites typically provide more room for slide-outs and outdoor living spaces.
Utility connections: North Fork Cottages & RV Resort provides convenient hookups. "Easy access to water and electric," notes a tent camper who observed the RV section. Most parks offer 30/50-amp service, but always verify before booking if specific requirements are needed.
Weather protection: Smith Point County Park offers limited shade for motorhomes. "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," warns a camper about the oceanfront sites. RVers should bring awnings or portable shelters during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 85°F.
