Suffolk County offers several campground options within 30-40 minutes of Great River, New York. Most camping facilities in the region operate seasonally from April to October, though some county parks remain accessible year-round. Winter temperatures in the area typically range from 25-45°F, while summer months see averages of 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking around the lake: Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown features a 7-mile loop trail circling the lake with opportunities for wildlife viewing. "The hiking trails were quiet, natural and clean. The trails I explored were well marked," notes one visitor to Blydenburgh County Park.
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park in Shirley provides immediate beach access with Atlantic Ocean views. "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," reports a camper at Smith Point County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Cathedral Pines County Park in Middle Island offers fishing access with boat rentals available. "Row boat for fishing was great. Not a party or for party site as alcohol is not allowed but I believe if you're an adult you're good to have an adult beverage," mentions one visitor about the nearby waters.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Tent sites at Battle Row Campground provide more seclusion than typical county parks. "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if you're local, easy in and out," explains a camper at Battle Row Campground.
Beach camping options: Fire Island National Seashore offers primitive backcountry beach camping for those seeking solitude. "Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water. Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between March 15 and Labor Day," advises a visitor to Fire Island National Seashore.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds feature resident wildlife that frequents camping areas. At Smith Point County Park, one visitor notes: "You get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise." Some deer are accustomed to human presence, with another camper adding: "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be problematic throughout the camping season. At Watch Hill on Fire Island, a camper warns: "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend."
Site boundaries: Many campgrounds feature sites without clear demarcation between neighboring campsites. "The sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied," notes a visitor to Heckscher State Park Campground.
Fire pit requirements: Some campgrounds do not provide fire rings or pits. 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 feature dedicated playgrounds for younger campers. Heckscher State Park has "a playground just for the campground," and visitor mentions, "There is a shop at the entrance to get supplies if you need it and you can rent firepits and buy firewood. The ice cream trucks comes by as well."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs are available during peak season at select locations. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, a visitor notes: "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
Protected swimming areas: Wildwood State Park Campground offers beach access along Long Island Sound with gentler waves than ocean beaches. "The North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water" provides safer swimming for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping, choose sites based on preference for sun or shade. "The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun," notes an RVer at Southaven County Park.
Waterfront options: Some RV sites provide direct water views. At Smith Point County Park, an RVer explains their site "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."
Residential access: Suffolk County parks prioritize county residents for reservations and special rates. "Suffolk County is really the only RV friendly place. Worth buying the green key card for resident access. $200 but you'd spend that on 4 nights regardless."
