Smith Point County Park offers glamping close to Rockville Centre, New York along the Atlantic shoreline. Sites are positioned on both the bay and ocean sides with varying views, some overlooking the water while others face seagrass. The Long Island campground sits at sea level with sandy terrain, experiencing summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through September. Campsites accommodate glamping structures without natural shade coverage.
What to do
Swimming between two shores: At Smith Point County Park, visitors can access both bay and ocean waters within walking distance of campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes one visitor. The Atlantic side offers stronger waves while the bayside provides calmer waters.
Wine country excursions: The glamping locations at Wildwood State Park Campground provide convenient access to Long Island's wine region. As one camper states, "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound." Wineries typically open 11am-5pm daily during summer months, with tastings starting at $15-25 per person.
Winter activities: Unlike many seasonal glamping sites near Rockville Centre, Allaire State Park offers year-round options including winter camping experiences. A visitor shared, "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there." Winter activities include snowshoeing on the park's trail system when conditions permit.
What campers like
Waterfront platforms: Certain glamping sites feature elevated structures for tent placement, a practical solution for wet ground conditions. At Wildwood State Park, "This is one of my favorite campgrounds solely because there are platform sites so I can place my tent on a concrete or wooden platform." These structures keep camping gear dry and provide stable footing.
Beach proximity: The oceanfront glamping accommodations at Smith Point County Park place visitors steps from the Atlantic. As one camper described their experience, "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." Most glamping sites require a short walk over dunes to reach the beach.
Wildlife encounters: The natural surroundings at glamping sites near Rockville Centre feature wildlife viewing opportunities. "You get visits from the nearby deer," notes a Smith Point County Park camper. Another visitor observed, "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies." These encounters occur most frequently at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: The glamping options near Rockville Centre range from secluded to social settings. Mountain Lakes Park offers more isolated accommodations, while Smith Point provides a community atmosphere. As one camper notes, "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."
Weather considerations: The beach glamping sites have specific climate considerations. One camper advises, "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent." Overnight lows rarely drop below 65°F in summer months, and afternoon highs can reach 90°F.
Reservation requirements: Many glamping sites have specific booking policies. Smith Point County Park has residency restrictions as one camper explains, "YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY" and limits stays to "ONE WEEK AT A TIME. PERIOD." Non-residents should verify reservation eligibility before planning trips.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate recreation: Turkey Swamp Park glamping accommodations offer family-friendly activities suited to various age groups. A visitor observed, "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office." The park provides a range of outdoor options as one camper noted: "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing."
Insect preparation: Parents should pack appropriate insect protection for family glamping trips. A Turkey Swamp Park camper with young children reported, "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" However, another visitor had a different experience: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2."
Entertainment options: Families appreciate the nearby attractions to glamping sites. As one Wildwood camper shared, "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby." These options provide alternatives during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For luxury glamping in RVs near Rockville Centre, corner sites often provide the best experience. At Smith Point County Park, "I also like the corner sites as they are bigger. The 230-70 overlook the ocean which is great." Bay-view sites numbered 12-30 offer water views, though site 28 was noted as having "an obstructed view" despite being a "huge corner spot."
Hookup variations: Camp Glen Gray glamping accommodations provide electric hookups but have limitations for larger vehicles. One visitor noted the campground is "NO big-rig-friendly" despite offering electric connections. The park prohibits driving through certain areas as one camper explained: "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
