Smith Point County Park and Heckscher State Park offer prime camping locations near North Babylon, New York. Both parks sit on Long Island's south shore, providing Atlantic Ocean access with sandy beaches. Many campgrounds close seasonally between late fall and early spring, with limited winter camping options available. Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year, with summer temperatures averaging between 65°F and 85°F and higher humidity levels near coastal sites.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides direct beach access for swimming and sunbathing. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes one camper at Smith Point. Beach camping offers unique coastal experiences throughout different seasons.
Wildlife viewing: Many Long Island campgrounds have resident deer populations that visitors can observe. At Smith Point County Park, one camper shared, "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies." These wildlife encounters happen frequently at several campgrounds across Suffolk County.
Visiting New York City: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a convenient base for NYC exploration. Located in Jersey City, it provides quick access to Manhattan via public transportation. "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 one RVer who stayed there.
Explore local beaches: Nickerson Beach Park offers additional beach options beyond the main camping areas. "They recently installed a path that goes all the way down to the beach area so you don't have to walk on the sand for so long. There is also fantastic food in the area as well," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Ocean views: Smith Point County Park offers waterfront sites with exceptional views. "Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass," reports one camper about the site layout.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Smith Point, a camper noted, "A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit." This sentiment was echoed across multiple campgrounds in the region.
Convenient NYC access from Jersey City: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping with city views. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," shares one visitor.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Heckscher State Park Campground provides open camping areas ideal for group gatherings. A camper noted, "This place is the best around for group and family camping. The entire campground is one flat open space where some sites are full in the shade and other sites (lower numbers) have lots of sun."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Most campgrounds near North Babylon have limited privacy between sites. At Smith Point, a camper mentioned, "Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. 10 would be better. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger."
Reservation requirements: Many Suffolk County parks require county residency or special permits. At Smith Point, one camper cautioned about limitations: "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Seasonal operation: Most RV sites near North Babylon, New York close during winter months. Battle Row Campground is one exception, with year-round operation noted on its reservation system.
Limited amenities at urban locations: Skyline RV Camp has basic facilities and has relocated from its original waterfront location. A camper noted, "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Heckscher State Park offers a dedicated playground for campground users. "There is a playground just for the campground," notes a visitor, though some parks require driving to reach play areas, as one camper mentioned: "playground is driving distance not walking."
Spacious group sites: Battle Row Campground provides larger tent camping areas. One visitor described, "Ours was #59, well shaded and spacious," making it suitable for family camping with multiple tents.
Beach proximity considerations: When camping with children at Smith Point, site selection matters. A camper advised, "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."
Fire containment requirements: Some parks have specific fire safety rules. At Battle Row, "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."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Cathedral Pines County Park and other parks require careful route planning. RVers noted the "electric sites" are limited at Cathedral Pines, requiring early reservations. Many Long Island roads have restrictions that impact larger vehicles.
Site selection for larger rigs: RV campers recommend requesting corner or end sites for more space. At Liberty Harbor, a camper suggested, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Winter camping options: RV sites near North Babylon have limited winter availability. Cathedral Pines County Park offers year-round camping, though with reduced amenities during winter months.
Off-season benefits: Some campers prefer shoulder season camping for fewer crowds. At Heckscher State Park, a visitor noted, "We would only consider staying here again during the 'off-season' months when the campground isn't busy."
