Tent camping near Riverhead, New York provides access to both coastal and inland wilderness experiences within a 45-mile radius. The eastern Long Island region features a mix of maritime forests, dunes, and tidal wetlands with an average summer high of 82°F and winter lows around 24°F. Camping options range from primitive beach sites requiring boat or ferry access to more developed facilities with basic amenities.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, the beach is just steps away from your campsite. According to one camper, "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean. Not ready for full on camp-life? No problem! There are shops, a restaurant and a bar a 10 minute walk away!"
Wildlife viewing: Fire Island National Seashore offers opportunities to observe coastal birds and marine life. A visitor notes, "A beautiful serene look at nature! So it's about a mile to three miles to the closest campsites on the western side. Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water."
Kayaking to island campsites: Selden Neck State Park requires a boat or kayak to reach its campsites. One camper explains, "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags. Once you get to the island, follow the bank north until you spot the sign for your campsite."
Castle tours: Gillette Castle State Park Campground provides access to historic structures. A reviewer mentions, "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Battle Row Campground offers tent sites away from common areas. A camper shares, "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out."
Clean facilities: Many visitors appreciate the maintenance at camping areas like Battle Row. As one reviewer noted, "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful. The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean."
River views: Hidden Lake Farm provides scenic water views. A reviewer states, "Quiet and Private," making it ideal for campers seeking a peaceful experience.
Night sky viewing: Many coastal campsites offer excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. At Watch Hill, campers can "stargaze over the clear ocean" while falling asleep to the sound of waves.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and other biting insects are a significant concern at coastal sites. One visitor to Watch Hill warns, "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... Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!!!"
Transportation logistics: Many sites require specific transportation methods. For Watch Hill, "You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable. Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves."
Fire regulations: Battle Row has unique fire rules: "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
Seasonal timing: Visitor levels change dramatically throughout the year. Some permits are only required "between march 15 and labor day" at certain locations, while others note significantly reduced crowds after Labor Day.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities. At Watch Hill, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
Playground access: Battle Row Campground offers recreational facilities: "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit."
Wildlife awareness: River Highlands State Park offers natural experiences but parents should note potential wildlife encounters: "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Water safety: For boat-access sites, prepare children with appropriate safety gear. When kayaking to Selden Neck, remember that "you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV facilities: Most primitive tent camping near Riverhead has few amenities for larger vehicles. Battle Row offers some RV sites but a visitor noted the campground is "old and there isn't much there, but it depends on why you're camping whether that matters to you."
Water and electric hookups: Battle Row provides some basic services: "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean."
Bathroom considerations: RV campers without onboard facilities should note bathroom availability. One Battle Row visitor mentioned, "There were lots of showers but only 1 was unlocked (free and with hot water). The bathroom was very clean and well stocked."
