Suffolk County offers several camping options within a short drive of Ocean Beach, New York. The area features a mix of county and state parks providing various accommodation types along both the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean shorelines. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler temperatures between 55-75°F with less crowded conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Launch from Indian Island County Park where the calm waters provide excellent conditions for beginners. "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach," explains one visitor to Wildwood State Park Campground.
Beachcombing: The beaches along Smith Point County Park offer excellent shoreline exploration. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes a camper. The rocky beaches of the north shore contrast with sandier south shore beaches.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal times for spotting local wildlife. "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise," shares a visitor at Smith Point County Park. Bring binoculars for spotting shorebirds along the marshes.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Most campgrounds in the region offer easy beach access. "Our site had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass," reports a Smith Point camper.
Varied accommodation options: From tent sites to luxury glamping experiences, the area offers multiple camping styles. "The Collective Governors Island features fully furnished cabins and modern yurts with comfortable bedding, electricity, and private bathrooms," notes a visitor to Collective Governors Island.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Among the most modern bathrooms I've seen at a State Park campground. Nice clean campground with the usual NY State Park quality," shares a Wildwood State Park visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Suffolk County parks often require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. "Only drawbacks: 1- You have to be a resident of Suffolk Co, NY. 2- One week stay at a time. Period," warns a visitor to Smith Point.
Site privacy considerations: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. "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. You will get very intimate with your neighbors," notes a camper at Indian Island County Park.
Fire ring policies: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings. "Not having a fire ring was lame. You have to rent one or bring your own," mentions one Wildwood State Park visitor. Check specific campground policies before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer play areas for children. "There's an open field with a playground for kids. There are dog friendly which was very nice," notes an Indian Island visitor.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds maintain regular security patrols. "Kids were roaming freely and safe," reports one camper, though another notes: "The park police are a bunch of over masculine jerks and take their duty a little too far with the drinking."
Entertainment options: Splish Splash waterpark is located near Wildwood State Park. "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," shares a visitor describing options beyond beach activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer water and electric connections. "There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to camp," notes a visitor to Wildwood State Park.
Leveling and site conditions: Prepare for varied terrain across different parks. "Site was level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. Campsites are located close enough to the beach/marsh," shares an RVer at Indian Island County Park.
