Glamping in Melville, New York connects campers to both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean shores, with locations typically within a 30-40 minute drive of Melville. The North Shore (Sound side) features rocky beaches and bluffs while the South Shore offers Atlantic Ocean access with sandier shores. Seasonal considerations include high humidity in summer months and coastal winds that can affect tent camping year-round.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Wildwood State Park Campground, the Long Island Sound shoreline offers rocky beaches with unique coastal features. "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," notes camper Giselle P., who adds that the "sunset scenery is beautiful" along the water's edge.
Fruit picking: Several orchards near Indian Island County Park let visitors harvest seasonal produce. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits," mentions one Wildwood visitor, making it an ideal activity to combine with your camping trip.
Water activities: The region offers multiple water recreation spots across different parks. At Smith Point County Park, "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view," reports Gianna, highlighting the dual-water access where "a short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite."
What campers like
Sunrise viewing: The eastern shoreline camping spots provide stunning morning views. At Indian Island County Park, one camper appreciates that "the walk to the beach area was very serene, especially early morning before sunrise and didn't feel like we live in dense suburbia and sunrise from the beach was worth the trip."
Wildlife encounters: Several parks feature local fauna that enhances the glamping experience. Smith Point campers mention, "you get visits from the nearby deer" while another visitor observed "a momma deer nursing two of her babies" near their luxury site.
Easy city access: For those seeking upscale outdoor experiences with urban proximity, Mountain Lakes Park provides "a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC." A reviewer notes the park "contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County," offering natural surroundings without complete disconnection from metropolitan amenities.
What you should know
Parking limitations: Some parks enforce strict vehicle rules. At Wildwood, "Recently they became very stringent about parking two vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles," explains a regular visitor.
Fire ring policies: Multiple parks require campers to bring or rent fire equipment. At Indian Island County Park, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring...We luckily had our camp stove and could make dinner on that, but a fire would've been nice that evening!"
Site privacy: The coastal location means many sites have limited seclusion. Smith Point has "close sites with no privacy" according to one reviewer, while another mentions sites are "packed like Sardines." At Wildwood, a camper notes "there's not many trees in the campsite area and the sites are so close together. You will get very intimate with your neighbors."
Reservation restrictions: Some parks have residency requirements. Smith Point County Park limits bookings, as a camper explains: "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
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. Indian Island County Park has "an open field with a playground for kids" though one visitor noted during their trip "playgrounds were closed due to Covid." Check current status before visiting.
Kid-friendly environment: Smith Point creates a welcoming atmosphere for children. "Kids of all ages are generally running and playing day and night in the loud and unreserved way they do. People are friendly and its a great place to spend your summer nights," reports a satisfied camper.
Cabin convenience: For families seeking more structured accommodations, Camp Glen Gray offers prepared structures. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes a regular family visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities vary across parks. At Wildwood, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," reports a satisfied camper.
Site sizing: Parks accommodate different RV dimensions. Smith Point provides spaces for larger units, as one visitor explains, "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."
Offseason considerations: Utility limitations may apply in cooler months. One Indian Island visitor noted, "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) and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there."
