Campsites near Islandia, New York offer diverse camping experiences beyond typical RV and tent facilities. While Suffolk County parks dominate the camping scene, each location provides unique terrain variations and amenities. The camping season generally extends from April through October with higher elevation inland parks experiencing different seasonal conditions than coastal locations.
What to do
Hiking trails around lake areas: At Blydenburgh County Park, you can enjoy a 7-mile loop around the lake with fishing opportunities. One visitor noted, "The hiking trails were quiet, natural and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked. The fox 9 site was a long enough walk I needed to plan my trips to the bathroom."
Beach access and water activities: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides direct beach access for swimming and sunbathing. According to a camper, "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."
Cycling opportunities: Many campgrounds near Islandia have cycling paths connecting different areas. At Heckscher State Park Campground, "Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach. There is a pool, but it has not been open for many years."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Cathedral Pines County Park offers more private camping areas. A camper mentioned, "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field." This provides a more traditional camping experience compared to more open facilities.
Beachfront camping options: Smith Point County Park features sites with direct ocean and bay views. As one camper described, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds feature wildlife viewing opportunities. At Smith Point County Park, one camper noted, "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies." Similarly, local fauna is prevalent at several Suffolk County camping locations.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: Insect protection is crucial, particularly at coastal locations. A camper at Wildwood State Park Campground noted that while the location is "amazing," visitors should be prepared for seasonal insect activity, especially during summer months.
Fire pit regulations vary: Many campgrounds require campers to bring their own fire containers. 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."
Site privacy considerations: Campsite boundaries can be unclear at some locations. One camper at Smith's Point reported, "Be prepared for narrow campsites and book early. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because of the fact that since it so tight, people failed to respect their neighbors as far as noise is concerned."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Southaven County Park provides family-friendly amenities. A camper called it the "Perfect place to take the little ones has a beautiful lake and a really nice playground highly recommended."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer special programming for younger campers. At Heckscher State Park, "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."
Safety considerations: For families concerned about security, Battle Row Campground offers supervised grounds. A camper noted, "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Blydenburgh County Park offers necessary RV amenities but with some limitations. A camper advised, "Lots of RVs but not close to tent sites. There were lots of showers but only 1 was unlocked (free and with hot water). The bathroom was very clean and well stocked."
Pull-through sites: Wildwood State Park features convenient access for larger vehicles. One RVer commented, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Resident permits: Many Suffolk County campgrounds require special permits for local residents. At Blydenburgh County Park, a camper advised, "Worth buying green key card for resident access. $200 but you'd spend that 4 nights regardless. Very clean campgrounds lots of space."
