Suffolk County camping spots near Greenlawn, New York primarily consist of established county and state facilities operating with seasonal availability constraints. The northern shore campgrounds are distinguished by their wooded surroundings and proximity to Long Island Sound, while southern locations offer Atlantic Ocean access. Campgrounds often implement a Green Key card system for Suffolk County residents, which provides discounted rates and priority reservation opportunities at county-managed facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails near campgrounds: Blydenburgh County Park features a popular 7-mile loop around the lake with decent fishing spots. According to one visitor: "I felt like I was suddenly transported upstate when in fact I had only driven 2 towns over, (about 20 minutes from home). I have lived on Long Island for my entire life never knew great camping was minutes away" (Blydenburgh County Park).
Beach access options: Smith Point County Park offers dual water access with minimal walking. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent" (Smith Point County Park).
Off-season stargazing: Wildwood State Park provides stargazing opportunities on the beach with a permit system in place. "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" (Wildwood State Park Campground).
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Cathedral Pines County Park offers more tree coverage than many other Long Island campgrounds. "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," notes one camper who appreciated the natural setting (Cathedral Pines County Park).
Proximity to urban amenities: Battle Row Campground provides a convenient base for accessing Long Island attractions. "I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids" (Battle Row Campground).
Early morning wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Smith Point, one camper reported: "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise."
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground requires serious insect protection measures. "Expect to be eaten alive... it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long" (Watch Hill Fire Island Campground).
Fire pit policies vary: Many Suffolk County campgrounds don't provide permanent fire pits. At Heckscher, "There are no fire pits on any of the sites, although I learned afterwards that they do allow you to bring your own metal fire pit as long as it is elevated off the ground."
Site privacy considerations: Campground layouts often lack clear boundaries between sites. "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. No solitude, lots of families with kids, lots of music, I mean it's basically a party."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Battle Row has "a playground just for the campground" and Southaven County Park offers "a beautiful lake and a really nice playground" which makes it "perfect place to take the little ones" (Southaven County Park).
Evening entertainment options: Some parks offer seasonal children's programming. One camper at Heckscher noted: "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."
Beach safety considerations: Beaches vary significantly in conditions. At Wildwood State Park, a camper observed the beach is "a little rocky on the north shore" which may require water shoes for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Blydenburgh County Park offers full-service sites but access can be challenging. "We have a 42 ft 5th wheel toy hauler. A few Big Rig spots are available, but this is a Suffolk County Campground that is not well maintained."
Campsite selection strategy: At Nickerson Beach Park, site numbers matter significantly. "The closest fence line to the campground has no beach access and has a huge sign that says STAY OUT- TICKS! Its a good 10 minute walk to the beach through a concrete parking lot and basketball courts."
Road conditions to consider: Several campgrounds have access limitations. For Nickerson Beach Park, one RVer advised: "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges."
