Glamping options near Nesconset, New York offer diverse experiences from wooded inland sites to coastal retreats with access to both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. The area's coastal climate brings warm, humid summers averaging 80°F and mild winters around 40°F, with increased precipitation during hurricane season from June through November. Camping facilities typically remain open from April through October, though some locations maintain year-round availability with varying amenities.
What to do
Beach activities at multiple locations: Wildwood State Park Campground provides access to the Long Island Sound where visitors can enjoy swimming, though the beach has some challenges. "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach," advises one camper at Wildwood State Park Campground.
Visit nearby attractions: The area's campgrounds provide convenient access to regional attractions. "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," notes a Wildwood visitor. Long Island wine country is also accessible, as another camper mentions: "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound."
Outdoor recreation options: Mountain Lakes Park offers diverse recreation opportunities beyond beaches. "The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes. There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Unique waterfront views: Smith Point County Park provides distinctive water views from elevated sites. "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," shares one camper.
Wildlife encounters: While glamping close to Nesconset, New York, visitors often experience wildlife. A Smith Point County Park visitor noted: "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise."
Clean facilities: Indian Island County Park maintains well-kept amenities that campers appreciate. "The facilities were clean and more than adequate. The beaches, picnic areas and hiking trails were clean and clearly marked," reports one visitor. Another notes the "clean heated bathroom and bike station near dump site."
What you should know
Fire ring policies vary: Unlike many campgrounds, Wildwood doesn't provide fire rings with sites. "Lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own," mentions one camper. Indian Island County Park has similar policies: "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring."
Site spacing considerations: Site proximity varies between locations. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, "the sites are large and level, there are full hookups, and a dump station." However, some campgrounds offer less privacy: "It's a fun campground, has a great beach & great bathroom facilities. 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."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Suffolk County Parks require county residency," notes one visitor to Smith Point who 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 availability: Collective Governors Island offers unique glamping experiences with modern comforts. The site provides "feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."
Kid-friendly activities: Indian Island County Park offers amenities specifically for children. "There are multiple playgrounds for the kids. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities. I enjoy going here as it is easy for a quick weekend."
Beach accessibility factors: Some beaches require more effort to reach than others. At Wildwood State Park Campground, "it is a downhill walk to the beach," while at Smith Point, sites are "a short walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers full-service options. "Most of the roads are paved, the sites are large and level, there are full hookups, and a dump station." The campground offers "electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, water hookups, and sewer hookups," making it well-suited for larger rigs.
Space considerations: RV sites vary in size and privacy between locations. Wildwood has "a separate area for RVs vs tents" and "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Seasonal access limitations: Water services may be limited in shoulder seasons. At Indian Island County Park, one RVer reported, "No sewers sites that I could tell, and 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."
