Smith Point County Park offers spacious campsites for RVers near Deer Park, New York. The campground sits directly between the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay, with sites that provide beach access within walking distance. Long Island's camping season typically runs from April through November, with most facilities closing during winter months due to northeastern weather patterns.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park has oceanfront access just steps from campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," notes one visitor at Smith Point County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Cathedral Pines County Park offers nature trails where campers can observe local wildlife. "Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," reports a camper at Cathedral Pines County Park.
Surfing: Nickerson Beach Park provides access to prime surfing locations. "If you're looking for a spot to camp so you can surf, this is perfect! It's basically a parking lot, but it's steps away from some of the greatest waves on the east coast," shares a reviewer from Nickerson Beach Park Campground.
What campers like
Ocean views: Many campers appreciate the direct waterfront access at Smith Point. "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," writes a visitor about their experience.
Clean facilities: Heckscher State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "The restroom building is in the middle of the campground and was clean and had plenty of stalls. Potable water is available at regular intervals, about at the corners of each group of four campsites," notes a camper at Heckscher State Park Campground.
Convenient location: Many campers value proximity to NYC attractions. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," states a reviewer about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What you should know
Non-resident restrictions: Some county parks limit access to local residents. "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD," warns a Smith Point camper about reservation policies.
Limited privacy: Many RV sites near Deer Park lack substantial separation between campsites. "Each camping site has a picnic table and barbeque grill. The sites are designated by printing on the roads and do not have clear boundaries between them," explains a reviewer from Heckscher State Park.
Fire pit requirements: Bring your own portable fire container at some parks. "There are NO fire pits on any of the sites, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," notes a camper at Battle Row Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Heckscher State Park offers dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach," mentions a camper.
Special events: Many parks host family-friendly activities during peak season. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground," shares an Heckscher State Park visitor.
Wildlife interactions: Smith Point has approachable wildlife that children enjoy. "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies," notes one camper, while another adds, "the deer eat lettuce out of your hand. Shhhh- not supposed to feed the deer."
Tips from RVers
Parkway navigation: Height restrictions on New York parkways require careful route planning. One RVer at Nickerson Beach advises: "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges."
Site selection: Many RV parks offer limited space between units. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," suggests a Liberty Harbor visitor.
Seasonal considerations: RV sites near Deer Park have variable opening dates. "Spent a week while travel nursing. Quiet and peaceful. Lots of sand!" shares a Smith Point visitor who stayed during shoulder season when crowds were minimal.
