Suffolk County parks near Melville, New York provide camping options in terrain that transitions from the flat central plains to gentle hills along the north shore. Most campgrounds in the region operate between April and October, with a few select locations maintaining year-round availability. The camping landscape features a mix of wooded sites and open field arrangements, with several locations offering beach access to either the Long Island Sound or Atlantic Ocean.
What to Do
Hiking trails along the lake: Blydenburgh County Park offers a 7-mile loop trail around the lake with opportunities for fishing. "The hiking trails were quiet natural and and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked," notes one visitor. Another camper mentions, "Lots of horses and dogs on the trail."
Beach activities at Smith Point: Smith Point County Park provides direct access to both bay and ocean beaches. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," reports a camper. The park includes "a trex picnic table on a cement patio" at each site with many overlooking the water.
Wildlife viewing: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park, about an hour from Melville, offers chances to spot local wildlife. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," advises one visitor. Another camper mentions spotting "deer, rabbits, turtles" during their stay.
What Campers Like
Waterfront locations: Nickerson Beach Park Campground provides direct beach access. A visitor describes it as "right on the beach" and "a surfers dream" with "some of the greatest waves on the east coast." The island is also "very bikable to get around."
Privacy options: At Blydenburgh County Park, site locations vary considerably. "The fox 9 site was a long enough walk I needed to plan my trips to the bathroom. Other sites were spaced enough to allow a true feeling of escaping into the woods," explains a camper. Another adds that "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy."
Clean facilities: Wildwood State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. A camper notes, "Bathrooms and showers were not really clean, which was surprising because most people used their personal bathroom/shower in their RV." Another mentions "modern cottage with propane fireplace, WiFi access, bathroom with shower."
What You Should Know
Fire pit policies vary: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground has specific rules about fires. A camper reports, "Two-night minimum on weekends, and no fires. You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though." At other locations like Heckscher State Park, "There are no fire pits on any of the sites, although they do allow you to bring your own metal fire pit as long as it is elevated off the ground."
Insects can be problematic: Fire Island camping requires preparation for bugs. "Beautiful location steps away from the beach. Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean... One warning, however, the mosquitoes are extremely potent and plentiful. Take the good stuff," advises a visitor.
Transportation logistics: Some camping spots near Melville require special planning. For Watch Hill, a camper explains, "You can get there by ferry. Very quiet and comfortable." Another visitor notes that at Smith Point, "A general store, complete with an ice cream shop window, on the grounds was a treat."
Tips for Camping with Families
Protected swimming areas: Heckscher State Park Campground offers family-friendly water access. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes a visitor. Another camper mentions there is "a playground just for the campground."
Entertainment options: Families at Beaver Pond Campground appreciate the amenities. A visitor shares, "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom." During peak season, Heckscher State Park sometimes features special events, with one camper reporting, "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers."
Proximity to attractions: Wildwood State Park offers easy access to regional destinations. "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound," explains a camper. Another visitor mentions, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site layouts and hookups: Southaven County Park provides options for different RV needs. "The side with electricity was ok. Places to eat are very close, and a 15 minute drive to Smith's Point beach was a plus," reports one RVer. The park offers "electric-hookups" and "thirty-amp-hookups" for campers needing power.
Parking regulations: Some camping locations have strict vehicle policies. A visitor to Wildwood State Park mentions, "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles." At Battle Row Campground, "Group camping has a limit of 2 cars per site. Additional cars can park in guest parking lot."
Seasonal considerations: Smith Point County Park offers specific amenities during warmer months. "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view," shares an RVer. Another mentions, "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer."
