Suffolk County offers several glamping options close to Massapequa, New York, with most sites operating from April through October. The North Shore region features high bluffs and sandy beaches along the Long Island Sound, while the South Shore provides Atlantic Ocean access. At these locations, temperatures typically range from 50-85°F during camping season, with higher humidity levels near coastal sites.
What to do
Beach exploration at multiple shorelines: Wildwood State Park Campground features both the Long Island Sound beach and nearby access to Fire Island National Seashore. As one visitor noted, "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water."
Wine country visits: The eastern camping locations provide easy access to Long Island vineyards. "My wife and I love this campground. It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound," explains a Wildwood State Park camper.
Stargazing with permits: Night sky viewing requires planning at some locations. A reviewer mentioned that at Wildwood State Park "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."
Water sports from multiple launch points: Indian Island County Park provides easy water access. A visitor explains, "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities."
What campers like
Ocean-to-bay access: Smith Point County Park offers dual water views. One camper described it: "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."
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites feature native animals. A Smith Point visitor noted, "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer."
Modern bathrooms: Facility quality varies by location. At Wildwood State Park, a reviewer appreciated "Among the most modern bathrooms I've seen at a State Park campground. Nice clean campground with the usual NY State Park quality."
Luxury camping amenities: For premium glamping close to Massapequa, New York, Mountain Lakes Park offers yurt accommodations. A camper explained, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds have closely spaced sites. At Indian Island, a camper observed, "All the camping spots are pretty much right next to each one with hardly any space, packed like Sardines."
Fire ring policies differ: Not all campsites provide fire rings. As one Indian Island visitor discovered, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there."
Parking restrictions: Some campgrounds limit vehicles per site. At Wildwood State Park, a camper noted, "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles."
County residency requirements: Camp Glen Gray has specific residency restrictions. A Smith Point visitor warned, "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety considerations: Coastal conditions vary by location. A Wildwood State Park visitor advised, "A little rocky on the north shore" while another mentioned "It is close to the beach, but a very small and rocky beach."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play facilities. An Indian Island camper shared, "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids. There are dog friendly which was very nice."
Educational side trips: The area offers learning opportunities beyond camping. A Wildwood reviewer suggested, "Lots of other nice state parks in the area plus all the usual Long Island attractions (Riverhead Aquarium, Greek restaurants, farmer's markets, etc.)."
Weather preparation: Coastal camping requires planning. A reviewer at Allaire State Park noted, "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. the bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV sites vary in quality and views. At Smith Point, a camper advised, "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass."
Hookup limitations: Water access can be seasonal. An Indian Island visitor warned, "No sewers sites that I could tell, and water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening. Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving (2 night visit)."
Pull-through convenience: Some campgrounds offer easier RV access. A Wildwood camper noted, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
