Suffolk County's eastern region offers a variety of camping experiences near the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Cutchogue sits at the heart of North Fork wine country, with terrain ranging from beaches to wooded areas. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at most campgrounds.
What to Do
Lighthouse exploration: Hike the trail to Cedar Point Lighthouse from Cedar Point County Park for views of Gardiners Bay. "We went on Labor Day weekend and literally every site was booked, but for good reason. Really great and surprisingly long hike to the old lighthouse with lots of area for playing games and swimming," notes Maggie K.
Kayaking: Launch watercraft at multiple locations including Bellows Pond at Sears Bellows County Park. The park provides "a lake with kayaking access, and trails for bike riding and hiking. Each camp site spot has a provided water hook up," according to Lexis N.
Beach swimming: Visit the shorelines at Hither Hills State Park Campground where campsites sit near ocean access. Murat H. mentions, "camp by the ocean, awesome. Common areas are very clean, nice showers cleaner than my gym in the city."
What Campers Like
Water access variety: Shinnecock East County Park offers both bay and ocean camping options. Anthony M. shares, "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing."
Secluded wooded sites: Quieter camping experiences await at Sears Bellows County Park with its mix of forest and pond areas. A camper notes it's "perfect for anyone who wants to camp off the grid. Tucked away in the woods is a beautiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain quality restrooms and showers. Tiffany T. from Hammonasset State Park Campground notes, "Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need."
What You Should Know
Tick awareness: Cedar Point County Park can have tick issues during warmer months. "Twice though in June we had tons of ticks, but overall is a good site!" warns Mayra D. Perform regular tick checks after hiking or spending time in wooded areas.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially in peak season. For Wildwood State Park Campground, "Must reserve early in the year for summer spots," advises Pedro R. Weekends often book months in advance.
Generator restrictions: Some parks limit generator use to certain hours. Nancy M. from Hither Hills notes, "Had to take a star off for no hookups. Generator hours are limited. There are spigots located down the middle of the rows."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play areas for children. At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, Jean V. mentions, "The skunks are friendly! Great for kids!" Many Suffolk County parks maintain playgrounds near camping areas.
Beach proximity: Choose sites that minimize walking distance to water for easier beach trips. "Short walk to the beach, and the camp sites do fill up FAST over the summer up until school starts back up so if you plan to camp, BOOK AHEAD!" recommends Bianca M.
Nature programming: Indian Island County Park provides educational opportunities close to Cutchogue. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities," notes Michael G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For better privacy at Wildwood State Park, skip the RV section if possible. "Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through," advises Michael G.
Beach access requirements: When camping at Shinnecock East County Park, Lisa M. warns, "4x4 a must, air down a must. Beautiful on the bay or ocean side. They also have a hill top section. Beautiful views. Dry camping in an RV no tents."
Utility access: Check water spigot locations before selecting sites at campgrounds with limited hookups. "Go on google maps to find a spot near a spigot. Cell signal varies wildly by spot. B17 no prob at all. G14 spotty. F20 total dead zone," recommends Nancy M. from Hither Hills.
