Wildwood State Park Campground offers camping platforms, cabin accommodations, and glamping options located along Long Island's North Shore. The campground maintains separate areas for different camping styles, with the platform sites providing elevated camping surfaces ideal for tent stability. Campsites include water access, picnic tables, and fire rings for rent. Electric sites fill quickly during peak season, requiring advance reservations through the New York State Parks reservation system.
What to do
Beach exploration: Rocky and scenic shoreline requires water shoes for comfortable walking. Many campers note the distinct terrain: "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk" according to a visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Local wine tasting: North Fork vineyards within 15-30 minute drives provide day trip options. "Living on Long Island, your options are limited. That said, the sites close to water are nice," notes one camper about Indian Island County Park.
Kayaking and water sports: Launch sites available at several nearby parks. A camper reports, "There is a nice tent section tucked away in the woods but you are pretty far from the bathhouse and seemed crowded and loud when we walked around in the morning" at Mystic KOA.
Fruit picking: Local orchards and farms open seasonally within short drives. "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," mentions a camper about their glamping experience near Cutchogue.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary between camping sections: The glamping areas typically offer more seclusion. "This is a very nice family 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," explains a reviewer at Wildwood State Park Campground.
Waterfront proximity: Many campgrounds offer direct beach or water access. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities," notes a camper about Indian Island County Park.
Camp store conveniences: On-site shops stock essentials and morning coffee. "The camp store literally has anything you could ever need. Organized events, cafe on site and quick drive (or Uber ride) to Mohegan Sun," shares a visitor to Odetah Camping Resort.
Evening activities: Campground programming includes seasonal events. "They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time," mentions a Halloween visitor to Odetah Camping Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate April through October with limited winter options. "The campsites are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc. We stayed in Egret. We camped at site #4 (sunny) then moved to #38 (shady)," explains a camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Booking timelines: Reserve 6-12 months ahead for summer weekends, especially for premium glamping units. Sites with hookups book fastest.
Fire pit policies: Some campgrounds require fire pit rentals or bring-your-own options. "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," explains a Wildwood State Park visitor.
Weather considerations: North Shore locations experience stronger winds than South Shore options. "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," warns a camper at Smith Point County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites away from main roadways for quieter experiences. "The sites close to water are nice. They offer more to see and feel a little more like camping. There are sites with electric, water but those fill up fast," advises a family camping at Indian Island County Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas for different age groups. "Mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park," notes a visitor to Wolf's Den Family Campground.
Insect protection: Pack extra bug spray for evening activities near water. "Both spots were quiet, music low and people minded their business. Equal mix of RVs big and small as well as many tents," reports a family at Rocky Neck State Park.
Beach safety: North Shore beaches have steeper drop-offs than South Shore options. "The beach is in walking distance where you can swim or fish," mentions a Wildwood State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites limited and book quickly in peak season. "Sites were level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. Campsites are located close enough to the beach/marsh. No sewers sites that I could tell," notes an RV camper at Indian Island County Park.
Site levelness: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven sites. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," reports a camper from Wildwood State Park.
Dump station access: Limited stations may create morning departure delays. "You are close to the beach, but a very small and rocky beach. Overall, I don't think this was the best place for us," warns an RV visitor describing platform camping versus RV areas.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate rigs over 35 feet. "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open, excellent for bikes," explains a visitor describing the variety of glamping options near Cutchogue, New York.
