Camping spots near Quogue, New York range from oceanfront to woodland settings within Suffolk County's diverse landscape. Along the eastern end of Long Island, temperatures average 68-80°F during peak summer camping season from June through August, with cooler spring and fall periods offering less crowded conditions. Several campgrounds operate with unique coastal features like the high bluffs along the Long Island Sound that create distinctive camping environments.
What to do
Beach access at sunrise/sunset: At Smith Point County Park, campers enjoy direct access to both the bay and ocean. "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," notes Patrick C. Morning and evening beach walks provide spectacular views.
Fishing options: Nearshore and bay fishing opportunities exist at multiple locations. "The ocean is beautiful and we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," explains Anthony M. about Shinnecock East County Park. Many campgrounds offer fishing in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
Kayaking on Bellows Pond: At Sears Bellows County Park, visitors can rent rowboats for exploring the calm waters. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," reports Nadia V. The pond provides a peaceful alternative to ocean activities.
Hiking woodland trails: The area offers varied trail systems through pine barrens and hardwood forests. "The trails were beautiful, and the flowers were in bloom. There were people who were also biking on these trails, which looked like so much fun!" describes Nadia V. Most trails are relatively flat and suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Easy access to local attractions: Wildwood State Park Campground provides a convenient base for exploring beyond the campsite. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," shares Giselle P.
Varied camping experiences: Campgrounds in the area offer diverse settings from oceanfront to woodland. "There are various kinds of sites. You can find sites that are less wooded and better suited to group camping, as well as sites that are a little more secluded," notes Giselle P. about Wildwood State Park. Some campsites feature platforms for tent placement.
Wildlife encounters: Natural habitats support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "You get visits from the nearby deer," explains Tim M. about Smith Point County Park, while Amber A. mentions "lots of deer, pretty good birding" at Wildwood State Park. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Onsite conveniences: Many campgrounds provide amenities that enhance the camping experience. "There is also a store where you can get a cup of coffee in the morning and lots of goodies throughout the day," says Giselle P. about Wildwood State Park. Some locations feature ice cream trucks that visit in the evenings during summer months.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Suffolk County parks require a Green Key card for residents. "I had to get a Suffolk county green key card. And then pay 50 dollars per night. It wasn't cheap but it's definitely cheaper than the hotels in the area," explains Fernando C. about Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park.
Tick awareness: Wooded campgrounds present tick hazards throughout the camping season. "This is a nice campground - not crowded and centrally located. However, I cannot walk ANYWHERE without picking up ticks. Even on the large sand paths, going to and from the bathroom I find ticks," warns Denis S. about Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park.
Site privacy varies: Oceanfront locations often have closer spacing between campsites. "The campground was really clean, and because the campground is large, you feel like there is room between you and your neighbors," notes Kari M. about Southaven County Park, while Michael G. observed at Indian Island County Park that "sites close to water are nice. They offer more to see and feel a little more like camping."
Vehicle requirements: Beach camping locations may require specialized vehicles. "A 4x4 is required. You must also purchase an outer beach permit for your vehicle," explains Rich L. about Cupsogue County Park. Permits vary in cost depending on residency status.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Island County Park offers recreational facilities for children. "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids," reports Gino D. Southaven County Park also features "a really nice playground highly recommended," according to Correl H.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds maintain regular security patrols. "The camp is pretty safe. I left my things unattended a couple of times and nothing happened," shares Fernando C. about Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park. However, at Smith's Point, one camper advises to "lock up your bikes cause high schoolers will go over the bridge and steal your bikes or alcohol if they aren't locked up at night."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. "The North Shore and South Shore are pretty different. This site gives you the North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," explains Amber A. about Wildwood State Park, noting the diverse ecosystems available for exploration.
Seasonal considerations: Family camping experiences vary throughout the season. "Spent Columbus Day weekend at Cedar Point. We had pretty much the entire park to ourselves," reported one camper, highlighting the benefits of shoulder season visits when seeking a quieter family experience.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Smith's Point offers oceanfront RV camping with varying site quality. "Being on the beach and camping in October is just awesome. The bugs are gone, the days are warm and the nights are chilly," shares Chris A., who recommends: "Be prepared for narrow campsites and book early."
Water and power considerations: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," notes Lori R. about Wildwood State Park. However, at other locations, campers report "no electric hook-up but generators are allowed!"
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Stayed here for two nights with my popup and was surrounded by large motor homes/RVs. Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through," reports Michael G. about Wildwood State Park, noting that "there was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site."
Seasonal preparation: For shoulder season camping, water access may be limited. "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," explains Janelle G. about Indian Island County Park.
