Suffolk County, east of Farmingville, offers a mix of coastal and wooded camping options. The area maintains a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler spring/fall conditions in the 50-70°F range. Campgrounds typically experience higher humidity levels due to the proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and Long Island Sound.
What to do
Beach access at Smith Point County Park: Located in Shirley, campers can enjoy oceanfront activities just steps from their sites. One visitor shared, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many Suffolk County campgrounds feature natural habitats where wildlife flourishes. At Smith Point County Park, a camper noted, "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise."
Cycling trails: Several parks offer biking opportunities near camping areas. At Heckscher State Park Campground, visitors can "Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach."
Walking trails at Cathedral Pines: The wooded areas provide shaded hiking routes. A reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful walking trails. Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field."
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Some rv sites near Farmingville, New York, offer proximity to the city via public transit. Totoket Valley RV Park is described as "a perfect campground for seeing the local area or even catching the train to New York City."
Hot showers with good pressure: Clean facilities with reliable hot water are highly valued. At Smith's Point, a camper praised, "Lastly, 10 stars to guys and girls in charge of maintaining such a busy place!!! You guys really do a great job- and those showers!!! Best ever….great water pressure and super HOT!!!"
Seasonal camping opportunities: Some parks like Cathedral Pines County Park offer year-round access. One visitor mentioned, "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," highlighting the variety of camping environments available throughout the seasons.
Family-friendly environments: Many campgrounds cater to families with amenities and activities. A reviewer at Heckscher State Park noted, "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites have lots of sun."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many Suffolk County campgrounds have open layouts with limited separation between sites. At Heckscher State Park, a camper observed, "The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site's to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc."
Off-season benefits: Camping during shoulder seasons offers advantages. About Smith's Point, a visitor shared, "Being on the beach and camping in October is just awesome. The bugs are gone, the days are warm and the nights are chilly."
Reservation timelines: Most popular rv sites near Farmingville fill quickly, especially during summer. Cathedral Pines charges "$14 a night for green key members" and features "a decent fire pit/grill."
Fire restrictions vary: Some parks have specific fire policies. At Battle Row Campground, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Battle Row Campground, "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit."
Cabin options for beginners: For families new to camping, some parks offer cabin accommodations. At Heckscher State Park, cottages are "a last-minute booking for us and we were delighted with the beachside cottage, with enough amenities that mom and dad did not worry we had their cutie with us for camping."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many children enjoy encounters with local fauna. At Smith Point County Park, one camper mentioned, "Oh and the deer eat lettuce out of your hand. Shhhh- not supposed to feed the deer."
Seasonal activities: Some campgrounds host special events. Smith's Point mentioned, "It also happened to be Trick or Treat weekend on the campground which really fun to see."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At North Fork Cottages & RV Resort, campers appreciate "Easy access to water and electric. There were tons of campers that were there for the season and kids playing together."
Hookup details: Know what utilities are available at each location. At Totoket Valley RV Park, visitors enjoy "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table."
Alternative bathroom options: When facilities are less than ideal, having your own is beneficial. One camper at North Fork Cottages & RV Resort advised, "Some of the screens were missing from the bathroom so it was full of bugs. If you are in a camper and it has a bathroom, this will not be an issue for you."
Security considerations: Protect your belongings at busy campgrounds. Smith's Point campers warn, "Please lock up your bikes cause high schoolers will go over the bridge and steal your bikes or alcohol if they aren't locked up at night. It's happened to me."
