Campgrounds near Kings Park, New York range from wooded hideaways to waterfront locations along both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean shores. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers reaching average highs of 82°F in July and mild winters with average lows of 23°F in January. Most campsites in Suffolk County enforce strict quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM and require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Blydenburgh County Park features a 7-mile loop trail around a scenic lake. One camper noted, "The hiking trails were quiet natural and and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked," while another mentioned "a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail."
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides oceanfront camping with easy beach access. "Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view," reports one visitor. The park features both bay and ocean access, allowing campers to experience both waterfront environments.
Water recreation: Southaven County Park offers multiple water-based activities including fishing and boating. "If you like water activities and hiking, then chances are you will probably like this campground... I rented a rowboat, and used that for a large part of the morning. They also have some kayaks available to rent as well."
Seasonal fruit picking: Several campgrounds provide access to nearby orchards. According to one Wildwood State Park visitor, "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 campers like
Natural surroundings: Cathedral Pines County Park provides a more secluded experience with wooded sites. One camper described it as having "Wooded sites are lovely," while another noted the park is "Usually quiet, occasional deer."
Convenience to attractions: Wildwood State Park Campground is situated near popular Long Island destinations. A visitor commented, "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. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
Clean facilities: Most Suffolk County campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. At Battle Row Campground, visitors praise the "shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!" Another camper noted, "The bathroom was very clean and well stocked."
Beach proximity: Smith Point County Park offers oceanfront camping with direct beach access. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," reports one camper. Another mentioned, "1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more secluded experiences than others. At Cathedral Pines County Park, "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field." Meanwhile, at Smith Point, expect "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach."
Reservation systems: Most Suffolk County parks require a Green Key card for resident rates. "Worth buying green key card for resident access. 200 but you'd spend that 4 nights regardless," advises one Blydenburgh Park visitor.
Fire pit policies: Many campgrounds have specific rules about fires. At Battle Row, "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."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water and in summer months. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, visitors warn to "Take the good stuff" regarding insect repellent, with one camper noting, "We couldn't even enjoy our meals at camp because it was that bad."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Heckscher State Park Campground provides dedicated play areas for children. "There is a playground just for the campground," reports one visitor. Southaven County Park also "has a beautiful lake and a really nice playground highly recommended" for families with small children.
Entertainment options: Some parks organize special activities for younger campers. One visitor to 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."
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds have regular security patrols. At Heckscher, "Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe," while at Smith Point, "Park staff and rangers regularly patrol the campground and are diligent about cleaning up."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several parks offer chances to observe local animals. Smith Point features resident deer that have become accustomed to visitors, with one camper noting, "Oh and the deer eat lettuce out of your hand. Shhhh- not supposed to feed the deer."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Heckscher State Park, "The sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed," which provides more space for larger vehicles. One camper advises, "If you're looking for privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied."
Hookup availability: Wildwood State Park offers full-service connections for RVs. "Sites had water, electric and sewer hookups at each site," reports one visitor, making it convenient for those requiring full utility access.
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on larger rigs. Battle Row Campground has "lots of RVs but not close to tent sites," and is described as "old and there isn't much there," though the sites themselves are reported as "spacious."
Beach access with RVs: Smith Point County Park allows RVs to camp with beach views. One visitor with a 36-foot motorhome 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."
