Suffolk County offers a mix of RV camping options near Massapequa, New York, with most sites concentrated along the shorelines of Long Island's south shore. The region has relatively flat terrain with elevations typically less than 100 feet above sea level and a moderate climate that allows camping from April through November at most locations. Sites often fill quickly during summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides direct ocean access with sites overlooking the bay. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes a camper. The park balances water activities with wildlife viewing opportunities.
City exploration: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers a convenient base for NYC adventures. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," reports Joe R. The park serves primarily as a home base rather than a destination itself.
Hiking trails: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park provides access to numerous trails including portions of the Appalachian Trail. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," mentions Kelvin. The campground sits approximately 45 minutes from NYC.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Smith Point County Park earns praise for its oceanfront location. "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," shares Patrick C. Sites on the bayside offer unobstructed water views.
Spacious sites: Beaver Pond Campground provides well-separated camping areas. "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," explains Ethan K. The raised platforms provide additional benefits during wet weather.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "Facilities (bathroom/showers) were clean, campsites were generously spaced, water spouts at almost every site," notes Elizabeth D. about Heckscher State Park Campground. Most campgrounds feature regularly cleaned shower facilities and accessible bathrooms.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Many Long Island campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal separation between sites. At Heckscher State Park, "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," reports Jessica C.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Beaver Pond runs from April 22 to October 9, while others like Smith Point County Park remain open year-round.
Reservation requirements: Battle Row Campground and other county facilities require advance booking. "Sites are great overlooking the bay... Little pricey compared to nys parks," mentions Stephen P. about Smith Point County Park. County resident status may affect availability at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row Campground provides children's play areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," shares katrina M. The campground maintains quiet hours though enforcement varies.
Beach-based activities: Smith Point offers ideal conditions for families with easy beach access. "Great first experience. Had onsite bathrooms and showers that were clean. 1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean," reports Michael.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe local fauna at several parks. At Smith Point, "you get visits from the nearby deer," notes Tim M. Campers should properly store food as wildlife frequently visits campsites throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Skyline RV Camp can be difficult to locate. "The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place. One of the reasons is that their sign is half gone, small, and very hard to read," explains arlene S. Many RVers recommend using specific directions rather than GPS navigation.
Site utilities: Most RV parks offer electric and water hookups, with some providing full service connections. "All spaces are level concrete With full hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," notes Jeffrey about Naval Weapons Station Earle RV Park.
Location considerations: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers proximity to NYC but minimal amenities. "It's basically a parking lot with water & electric hookups. Larger rigs will barely have a yard," explains Ericka T. Similar conditions exist at other urban-adjacent RV parks in the region.
