Camping sites near Montauk, New York typically offer coastal settings with Atlantic breezes moderating summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The eastern tip of Long Island features a mix of sand dunes, wetlands, and wooded areas where campers can experience maritime forests unique to the region's glacial moraine geology.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Hither Hills State Park Campground allows campers to easily reach the ocean. "The beach is just over the dunes. Village Pizza is remarkably good," notes Nancy M., who stayed multiple times in 2023.
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Point County Park provides excellent fishing spots. "Plenty of space to walk and hike out to the lighthouse, kayak, biking or just relax," says Chris A., who visited during Columbus Day weekend.
Historical exploration: Theodore Roosevelt County Park offers primitive camping with cultural significance. One camper explains, "Boondocking at it's best! On the shore of the beautiful Block Island Sound. Upon checking in, pull over to air down...truck @ 20#, trailer @ 15#."
What campers like
Atlantic sunrise views: Hither Hills State Park Campground receives praise for its oceanfront location. "We really enjoyed this campground. We were super lucky to get in for Memorial Day weekend. The beach is great and the staff was very friendly," shares Megan B.
Waterfront setting: Theodore Roosevelt County Park offers a more rugged experience. "Bring your poles for surf casting, generator during the day. No air conditioning, but w Maxx fan and ocean breezes, I've never felt the need," according to Diana F.
Off-season tranquility: Cedar Point County Park provides a peaceful experience in shoulder seasons. "Spent Columbus Day weekend at Cedar Point. We pretty much the entire park to ourselves. Arrived on Friday afternoon and enjoyed a quiet peaceful weekend with cool weather and no bugs."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For Hither Hills, plan far ahead. "Great place to camp, need to reserve about 1 year in advance when i went to reserve it," advises Lou R., highlighting the extreme competition for summer spots.
Space considerations: Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers different camping areas. "The campgrounds are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc...We stayed in Egret. We camped at site #4 (sunny) then moved to #38 (shady)," explains Nita D.
Tick precautions: Cedar Point visitors should bring insect repellent. "We have gone there a few times. They don't take reservations but there's always some sites open. Twice though in June we had tons of ticks but overall is a good site!" warns Mayra D.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Hammonasset State Park Campground offers multiple swimming options. "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center," recommends Tiffany T.
Entertainment options: Niantic KOA provides structured activities for children. "So many activities for kids and family. Well maintained facilities. Kind and helpful staff," says Bernie C., noting the campground's family-friendly atmosphere.
Spacious sites: Hither Hills accommodates families despite site proximity. "The camp sites are close to each other with little to no privacy but everyone in our area was nice. There's a ton of family's with kids," reports Megan B., describing her Memorial Day weekend experience.
Tips from RVers
Generator considerations: Niantic KOA offers limited power options. "No sewer hook up, but they do provide a honey wagon pump service, once, free of charge. They say you can request additional pumps for a fee, if necessary," explains Bernie C., highlighting an important service for extended stays.
Site selection: At Rocky Neck, site location matters. "Sites include one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup. Wi-fi not available at this campground," shares Nita D., noting limitations for those needing hookups.
Reservation strategies: For Fishermens Memorial State Park, non-residents should expect higher fees. "The rates for out of state campers are significantly more than for residents. I'm used to paying $5 or even $10 more for being from out of state but here the fee is double or more for out-of-state campers," warns Lee D.