Camping options near Huntington, New York, extend across Suffolk County with sites typically situated at elevations under 100 feet above sea level. The region features a humid subtropical climate with warm summers reaching 80-85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing, making spring through fall ideal for outdoor recreation. Most campgrounds in the area maintain regular seasonal operations from April through October, though several remain open year-round for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Beach access: 15-minute walk: At Smith Point County Park, campers enjoy proximity to both bay and ocean. "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," notes Ali O. of Smith Point County Park.
Hiking trails: 7-mile loop: Blydenburgh County Park features extensive hiking options around its lake. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail," explains Erik R. of Blydenburgh County Park.
Ferry adventures: 30-minute ride: For a unique camping experience, consider Watch Hill on Fire Island. "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it," advises Emily S. about backcountry options.
What campers like
Platform sites for weather protection: Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground provides raised platforms at many sites. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," shares Ethan K. of Beaver Pond Campground.
Group camping areas: Heckscher State Park offers open layout camping ideal for gatherings. "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 (lower numbers) have lots of sun," writes Giselle P. of Heckscher State Park Campground.
Year-round availability: Several campgrounds remain open through winter. "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping," reports Paul R. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require in-person booking. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises Anil S. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly at coastal sites. "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," warns Rosie R. about Watch Hill Fire Island.
Fire pit policies differ: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings. "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," explains Jessica C. about camping at Heckscher State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Huntington feature dedicated play areas. "They have a beach, playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes Zorina N. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer special activities. "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 Giselle P. about Heckscher State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Southaven County Park provides nature encounters for children. "Perfect place to take the little ones has a beautiful lake and a really nice playground highly recommended," writes Correl H. about this pet-friendly camping option.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Cathedral Pines County Park accommodates various RV setups. "Was a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites. Still tho, was a pleasant experience," notes Junior D. about this pet-friendly campground near Huntington.
Limited big rig access: Parkway restrictions can create navigation challenges. "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," warns Matt S. about accessing Nickerson Beach Park Campground.
Oceanfront premium sites: Smith Point County Park offers exceptional RV locations. "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. A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings," describes Patrick C.