Campsites near Jamesport, New York dot the pine barrens and coastal areas of eastern Long Island, with most locations situated 5-15 miles from town. The region experiences mild summers with average temperatures of 75-85°F during peak camping season, while coastal breezes moderate humidity levels. Winter camping options are sparse as temperatures drop to an average low of 25°F from December through February.
What to do
Beach activities at Smith Point County Park: The park features Atlantic Ocean access with swimming areas monitored by lifeguards during summer months. One visitor noted, "Short walk to beach. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view." Smith Point County Park also has wildlife viewing opportunities, with another camper reporting, "At night an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer."
Boating at Sears Bellows: The freshwater Bellows Pond provides calm waters for rowing and kayaking. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," states one visitor of Sears Bellows County Park. Rental equipment is available on-site during summer weekends.
Wine tasting tours: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring Long Island's wine country. A visitor to Wildwood State Park Campground noted, "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound."
What campers like
Water access variety: Many campers appreciate sites that offer different water experiences. At Indian Island County Park, "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities," according to one reviewer. Some sites even offer dual water features, as another notes, "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids... you have the beach and a little hiking trails that makes it worth it."
Spacious wooded sites: Southaven County Park gets high marks for its site layout. "The campground was really clean, and because the campground is large, you feel like there is room between you and your neighbors," explains one camper. Another adds, "Our favorite campground. Been going there for years. Great sites, get there early in the camping season and there is a lot of free firewood, a nice bennie!"
Proximity to attractions: Many campers value the location for its access to regional activities. As one Wildwood State Park visitor explains, "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach... 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."
What you should know
Tick awareness required: The wooded nature of many sites means insect protection is essential. A reviewer at Southaven County Park warns, "Beware and prepare for ticks. Very wooded." Another visitor to Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park states, "This is a nice campground - not crowded and centrally located. However, I cannot walk ANYWHERE without picking up ticks. Even on the large sand paths, going to and from the bathroom I find ticks."
Fire ring availability varies: Several campgrounds do not provide permanent fire rings. One visitor to Wildwood State Park observed, "A little bit of a bummer on the rental for a firepit but the bathrooms are big and spacious." Similarly, at Indian Island, a camper noted, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring."
Reservation requirements: Many sites require Suffolk County Green Key cards for residents. A camper at Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park explained, "I had to get a Suffolk county green key card. And then pay 50 dollars per night. It wasn't cheap but it's definitely cheaper than the hotels in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer designated play areas. At Hammonasset State Park Campground, "The campgrounds have nice facilities like a shop, good showers, a playground, and volleyball courts." An Indian Island County Park visitor noted, "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids."
Weekend activity planning: Organized events may be available, depending on timing. One camper at Southaven County Park shared, "Perfect place to take the little ones has a beautiful lake and a really nice playground highly recommended." Another visitor noted the family-friendly atmosphere at Wildwood: "Kids were roaming freely and safe!"
Off-site adventures: The region offers additional family attractions. A Wildwood State Park visitor suggested, "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: North Fork Cottages & RV Resort (formerly Eastern Long Island Kampground) offers complete services. A camper noted, "The sites were exactly what we needed... Easy access to water and electric." For Smith Point visitors, "Having onsite bathrooms and showers that were clean" was a highlight.
Pull-through considerations: Several locations accommodate larger rigs. Wildwood State Park received this feedback: "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities." However, another visitor cautioned about site arrangements: "I had to get a Suffolk county green key card. And then pay 50 dollars per night."
Site selection advice: Choose location based on preference for water views or woods. At Smith Point County Park, "Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view."
