Suffolk County campgrounds near Glen Cove offer access to both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean beaches within a 30-50 mile radius. The terrain varies from pine barrens to hardwood forests, with camping opportunities along coastal bluffs and inland lakes. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer averages 70-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season.
What to do
Hiking adventures: Trails at Mountain Lakes Park provide paths ranging from beginner to advanced, with some routes starting directly from campsites. "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind," notes one visitor who warns that "after a rain storm everything was a bit muddy and slippery."
Beach swimming: The beach at Smith Point County Park offers ocean access just steps from campsites. "Literally steps to the beach," confirms one camper. While the Atlantic is accessible, be prepared for natural conditions: "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," though some note it's "a little rocky, bring your water shoes."
Stargazing permits: Night sky viewing at Smith Point requires purchasing a specific permit. One camper explains: "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."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting at Wildwood State Park Campground supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of deer, pretty good birding," mentions one visitor. At Smith Point, deer sightings are common: "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies."
Waterfront views: Campsites at Smith Point offer premium vantage points of both the bay and ocean. A recent visitor notes: "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."
Seasonal activities: Wildwood State Park provides access to regional attractions beyond camping. "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. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
What you should know
Glamping close to Glen Cove, New York: For upscale camping near Glen Cove, Moon Valley Campground offers distinctive dome accommodations. A visitor describes it as "a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border" with options to "bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents."
Site selection strategies: At Wildwood State Park, certain sites offer more privacy than others. "You can find sites that are less wooded and better suited to group camping, as well as sites that are a little more secluded." The park features platform sites that some campers prefer: "This is one of my favorite campgrounds solely because there are platform sites so I can place my tent on a concrete or wooden platform."
Access restrictions: Some nearby campgrounds have specific eligibility requirements. The West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area is "camping reserved for active and retired military personnel only." Similarly, West Point FMWR Lake Frederick is described as "a military-only campground" where "being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Round Pond Recreation Area includes well-maintained play areas. "We were very impressed with the playground on site!" notes one family who visited early in the camping season when weather limited other activities.
Campground layout awareness: Smith Point's open design creates a social atmosphere but limits privacy. One camper advises: "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent" and notes it's "not a quiet campground, campers stay up late drinking by the fire. Kids of all ages are generally running and playing day and night in the loud and unreserved way they do."
Local day trips: Camp Glen Gray serves as a convenient base for family excursions. "Lots of hiking trails" are available on-site, and the "Trading Post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions" about nearby attractions.
Tips from RVers
Water connection solutions: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water hookup distances can be challenging, but the campground provides equipment to help. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection."
Dump station conveniences: The RV facilities at Mahlon Dickerson include user-friendly waste disposal. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Site leveling considerations: Many RV sites in the region require minimal adjustment. One camper at Mahlon Dickerson notes: "The campsites are paved and mostly level" and "are wooded and large" with "water and electric hookups and a dump station."
