Suffolk County offers RV camping options near Fire Island National Seashore with diverse terrain between the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay. Sites range from open sandy lots near the beach to wooded inland areas with more privacy. Water quality can vary seasonally, with many campers reporting better water pressure in spring and fall compared to peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking the lake loop: At Blydenburgh County Park, campers can access a 7-mile trail circling the lake. "Hiking trails are beautiful. Dog friendly," notes a reviewer. The trail accommodates horses and dogs, making it versatile for different outdoor enthusiasts.
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park offers direct ocean access from campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," reports one camper. Beach activities include swimming, surfing, and fishing, with most ocean-facing sites within 100 feet of the shoreline.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at campgrounds throughout Suffolk County. At Nickerson Beach Park Campground, the natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "You get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," mentions a visitor who appreciated the unexpected wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Dual water access: Camping between ocean and bay provides unique opportunities at Smith Point. "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Literally steps to the beach," writes one camper about their stay at Smith Point County Park.
Clean facilities: Despite heavy use, most campgrounds maintain their amenities well. "Had onsite bathrooms and showers that were clean. 1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean," reports a camper. Regular cleaning schedules help maintain standards even during busy periods.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many Suffolk County parks cater well to families. "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," notes a visitor at Heckscher State Park Campground.
What you should know
Residency requirements: Several Suffolk County parks limit camping to county residents. "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD," cautions a Smith Point visitor. Check individual park websites for current policy details.
Limited privacy: Ocean-front sites typically feature open layouts with minimal separation. "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach," notes one camper about their experience. Inland parks like Cathedral Pines County Park offer more secluded options, where "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field."
Seasonal operations: Operating dates vary across parks. Heckscher State Park Campground runs from late May through early September, while others like Blydenburgh operate year-round. Weather conditions impact amenity availability, with water systems winterized at some locations from November to April.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooter and you can ride the loop around to the beach," advises a regular visitor to Heckscher State Park.
Kid-friendly events: Seasonal programming enhances family camping experiences. "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 a Heckscher visitor, highlighting unexpected entertainment options.
Secure storage: Wildlife and other campers may access unattended items. "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," warns a camper at Smith's Point.
Tips from RVers
RV pull-through accessibility: Sites at most Suffolk County parks accommodate larger rigs, though maneuverability varies. "RV sites are great overlooking the bay. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger," notes a Smith Point camper about site selection strategy.
Green Key benefits: For frequent campers, resident discount cards provide value. "Worth buying green key card for resident access. $200 but you'd spend that 4 nights regardless," advises a Blydenburgh visitor, highlighting cost-saving opportunities for repeat visitors.
Hookup variations: Water, electric, and sewer connections differ between parks and specific sites. At Battle Row Campground, "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," according to a reviewer, though the campground does not offer sewer hookups at individual sites.
