RV campgrounds near Port Jefferson, New York offer coastal camping options within Suffolk County's diverse terrain. Long Island's north shore provides campers with access to both the Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, while spring and fall camping seasons see milder 60-70°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
Beach access: 5-minute walk: Smith Point County Park provides direct beach access from campsites. "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. Literally steps to the beach," notes a camper at Smith Point County Park.
Wildlife viewing: dawn and dusk: Watch for local wildlife that frequents the campgrounds. One visitor to Smith Point mentions, "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise."
Hiking trails: 1-3 miles: Cathedral Pines County Park offers wooded walking paths through pine forests. "Beautiful walking trails. Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," shares one camper.
Kayaking: seasonal rentals: Explore shoreline waters with rental equipment. "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch," notes a visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront views: ocean and bay: Coastal camping provides dual water views. A Smith Point County Park visitor explains, "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."
Hot shower facilities: varying cleanliness: Clean bathroom facilities rank high on camper satisfaction. At Smith Point, a camper reports, "A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit. Our site had a trex picnic table on a cement patio."
Spacious sites: premium locations: Some campgrounds offer larger corner sites. A visitor to Heckscher State Park Campground observed, "If you're looking for privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied."
Evening activities: community events: Some parks host special activities. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground," says a Heckscher State Park camper.
What you should know
Site privacy: varies by location: Many RV campgrounds near Port Jefferson feature open layouts. At Heckscher, a camper notes, "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."
Weather preparation: wind exposure: Coastal sites offer minimal protection from elements. A Smith Point camper advises, "I love this campground! 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."
Reservation requirements: county-specific: North Fork Cottages & RV Resort and Smith Point have residency rules. One visitor points out, "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Noise levels: social atmosphere: Expect active social environments at peak times. "This is not a quiet campground, campers stay up late drinking by the fire. Kids of all ages are generally running and playing day and night in the loud and unreserved way they do," reports a Smith Point camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: dedicated areas: Heckscher State Park provides dedicated play areas. "There is a playground just for the campground. Bring a bicycle or scooper and you can ride the loop around to the beach; you can also drive to the beach," says one visitor.
Wildlife encounters: supervised only: Deer sightings are common but require caution. At Cathedral Pines, a camper warns, "Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive."
Budget options: Green Key discounts: Local programs offer camping savings. "Usually every site (I think $14 a night for green key members) has a decent fire pit / grill. Usually quiet, occasional deer," notes a Cathedral Pines County Park visitor.
Weekend planning: activity schedules: Check park schedules for family events. At Lake Compounce Campground, a visitor shared, "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park."
Tips from RVers
Site layout: entry options: Check site configurations when booking. At Lake Compounce Campground, a visitor explains, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Utility limitations: hookup specifics: Verify hookup availability before arrival. "Campground is only years old. Sites were large enough for RV. NO privacy, but tent sites were ok. Few showers for number of campsites, but very clean," notes a Lake Compounce camper.
Dumping facilities: accessibility challenges: Plan dump station access carefully. A Rocky Neck State Park visitor advises, "There is a dumping station and some great sites for group camping. Reasonable rates since it is a State Park!"
Winter camping: limited options: Totoket Valley RV Park provides off-season possibilities. "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table," shares one visitor.
