Near the Long Island Sound, Mastic Beach camping areas feature a mix of ocean and bay environments. The region offers year-round camping options with seasonal temperature variations between 30°F in winter and 85°F in summer. Many sites provide direct beach access with both open, sunny locations and wooded campsites available within short distances of each other.
What to do
Beach activities: hiking trails: Wildwood State Park Campground offers trails with wildlife viewing opportunities. According to Giselle P., "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk."
Explore nearby attractions: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides access to multiple recreation areas. "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails," notes Mauricio R.
Water activities: swimming and boating: Visitors can kayak near Indian Island County Park. Michael G. mentions, "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities. I enjoy going here as it is easy for a quick weekend."
What campers like
Accessible beachfront locations: Smith Point County Park offers exceptional beach access. Ali O. says, "I love this campground! 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 viewing opportunities: Deer and shorebirds are common sightings at local parks. Amber A. from Wildwood State Park notes, "Swimming, long walks on the beach, shady camp sites, pine barrens and hardwood forest to explore, lots of deer, pretty good birding."
Convenient local services: Niantic KOA offers transportation to surrounding areas. "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," mentions Snooz H., making it easier to explore without driving.
What you should know
Site layout and privacy vary: Some parks have closely spaced sites while others offer more seclusion. At Wildwood State Park Campground, Courtney K. observes, "It doesn't have that much of the camping feel, though, as there's not many trees in the campsite area and the sites are so close together. You will get very intimate with your neighbors."
Weather preparedness: Sites on the bay or ocean can be particularly hot in summer. Smith Point campers should note Ali O.'s advice: "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent."
Reservation challenges: Especially during peak season, availability can be limited. Several parks require advance booking, with many sites filling months ahead for summer weekends.
Seasonal restrictions: Check opening dates as they vary by location. Michael G. from Indian Island notes, "This is not our ideal campground. We usually like to be far from people with minimal neighbors, but living on L I, your options are limited."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers family-friendly facilities. According to Nick H., "The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice. They did a show on the beach one night that was fun too. We did bingo too."
Beach proximity: Look for sites with short walking distances to water. Maxime T. from Indian Island County Park reports, "The beach was within walking distance, lots of little trails, and plenty of activities for the whole family. The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot."
Special events and activities: Many campgrounds offer seasonal programming. At Niantic KOA, Bernie C. notes, "So many activities for kids and family. Well maintained facilities. Kind and helpful staff."
Off-site attractions: For families wanting more entertainment options, Giselle P. mentions about Wildwood, "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
Site size considerations: For larger rigs, check site dimensions carefully. At Wildwood State Park, Lori R. notes, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Utility connections: Water and electricity availability varies by campground. Some sites offer full hookups while others have limited services.
Beach access considerations: RVs can access oceanfront spots at some locations. Smith Point campers share information about prime locations with water views.
Seasonal opening dates: Not all facilities operate year-round. Rocky Neck State Park Campground operates seasonally from late May through September, limiting options for off-season RV camping.
