RV camping near Nesconset, New York offers access to both wooded settings and coastal environments, with sites situated between the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping brings 45-70°F weather with less humidity. Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations from May through October, with limited availability during peak summer weekends.
What to do
Beach activities at Smith's Point: The ocean-side campground provides direct beach access with swimming, fishing, and sunbathing opportunities. "10 stars to guys and girls in charge of maintaining such a busy place!!! You guys really do a great job- and those showers!!! Best ever….great water pressure and super HOT!!!" notes camper Chris A. about Smith's Point.
Hiking and wildlife watching: Cathedral Pines County Park features wooded walking trails with opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," advises Connor M. at Cathedral Pines County Park.
NYC day trips: Many campers use sites as a base for visiting Manhattan. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R. about camping options near the city.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Several campgrounds offer premium waterfront settings with direct ocean or bay visibility. "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," describes Patrick C. at Smith Point County Park.
Peaceful wooded sites: For those preferring forest settings, some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "This was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was. The camp office workers are SO friendly and helpful," shares Lexis N. about Battle Row Campground.
Seasonal wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate the wildlife viewing opportunities. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," mentions Tim M. about the camping experience at Smith Point County Park.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site's to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc. No solitude, lots of families with kids, lots of music," reports Jessica C. about Heckscher State Park Campground.
Fire rules vary by location: Not all campgrounds provide fire pits or allow ground fires. "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Weekend noise levels: Be prepared for busier, noisier conditions during peak times. "All in all it a great place to camp. Be prepared for narrow campsites and book early. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because of the fact that since it so tight, people failed to respect their neighbors as far as noise is concerned," notes Chris A. about Smith's Point.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," mentions katrina M. about Battle Row's facilities for families.
Beach proximity benefits: Oceanfront campgrounds provide built-in entertainment for children. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," advises Ali O. about the family-friendly setup at Smith Point County Park.
Security considerations: Most campgrounds have regular security patrols for safety. "I love smiths point it is so much fun and very save but please lock up your bikes cause high schoolers will go over the bridge and steal you bikes or alcohol if they aren't locked up at night," warns Ella C. based on personal experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Corner sites often provide more space and better views. "Stayed at site 12. Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. 10 would be better. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger," suggests Stephen P. about Smith Point County Park.
Transport options for city visits: Many RVers recommend public transit for city excursions rather than driving large vehicles. "This is a perfect campground for seeing the local area or even catching the train to New York City," notes Tara N. about Totoket Valley RV Park, which though further away, offers good transit connections.
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks have complex entry routes. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. about navigating to urban campgrounds with larger vehicles.
