Glamping options near Fire Island National Seashore range from coastal sites to woodland retreats. Situated along the southern shore of Long Island, this barrier island stretches 32 miles with an average width of only 0.25 miles. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak season, with frequent coastal breezes. Most glamping accommodations in the area remain open from April through October, though some county parks offer year-round availability.
What to do
Beach recreation: Access both the Atlantic Ocean and calmer bay waters at Smith Point County Park. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," confirms a camper. Visitors appreciate the proximity to swimming areas: "1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean."
Hiking trails: Explore wooded paths at Wildwood State Park Campground. The park features several marked trails through mixed forest leading to Long Island Sound. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach," explains one visitor who appreciates the natural setting.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for local fauna at Indian Island County Park, particularly in early morning. "Sunrise from the beach was worth the trip," notes a recent visitor. The park offers multiple habitats including marshland and shoreline, making it ideal for bird watching and photography.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Indian Island County Park offers direct beach access that campers consistently praise. "The beach was within walking distance, lots of little trails, and plenty of activities for the whole family," writes one visitor. The park provides both bay and sound beaches within walking distance of glamping sites.
Spacious layouts: Glamping accommodations at Smith Point County Park feature generous site dimensions. "Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views," reports a recent visitor who stayed in one of the bayside glamping options.
Coastal views: Waterfront glamping options offer memorable vistas. "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," describes one camper at Smith Point County Park.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most glamping facilities have limited operating seasons. "Wildwood State Park offers hiking trails through wooded areas alongside beach access on Long Island Sound. Both locations operate seasonally, with Smith Point available year-round and Wildwood open from April through October," notes the visitor information.
Residency requirements: Some county parks have residency restrictions. At Smith Point County Park, a camper points out: "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Beach conditions: Riverdale Farm Campsites across Long Island Sound offers alternative swimming options. "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this an awesome small campground," explains a visitor who enjoyed the pond swimming option when nearby beaches were crowded.
Fire pit policies: Fire regulations vary between parks. At Indian Island County Park, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers family-friendly amenities including a dedicated play area. "Decent location, not overrun with seasonal campers. We stayed for 3 nights, kids loved the area and playground," notes a family who visited recently. The campground also schedules regular children's activities.
Water activities: Swimming options exist beyond ocean beaches. Indian Island County Park provides alternative water access for families concerned about ocean conditions. "The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot," adds a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly facilities.
Entertainment options: Parks often schedule family activities during summer months. "They had activities for the kids on weekends and holidays," mentions a Riverdale Farm visitor. Consider checking event calendars when booking glamping stays with children.
Protection from elements: Prepare for limited shade at some locations. "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," advises a visitor to Smith Point County Park. Bringing portable shade structures can improve comfort for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Wildwood State Park, RV glamping areas differ from tent sections. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," shares an RVer who appreciated the dedicated RV camping area.
Utility connections: Check specific hookup availability when booking. "We stayed at site 12. Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. Electric and water is nice for pop up," advises a Smith Point County Park visitor who found the partial hookups sufficient.
Space limitations: Some RV sites offer less privacy than others. "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'," notes a visitor to Wildwood State Park who preferred more secluded options.
Advance reservations: Book early for premium waterfront RV sites, especially during summer months. The most desirable sites with water views book months in advance at Smith Point and Wildwood State Parks.
