Suffolk County camping areas near St. James, New York offer varied terrain from coastal beaches to dense pine forests. Camping options range from fully developed sites with hookups to more rustic experiences in wooded settings. Sites along the Long Island Sound offer rocky beaches with views of Connecticut, while south shore locations provide Atlantic Ocean access with different water conditions.
What to do
Beach activities at Fire Island National Seashore: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides unique beachfront camping accessible only by ferry. "You can get a permit to backcountry camp instead of reserving a designated campground spot. Just walk down to the beach after check-in and walk east until you see a pole with a tent symbol on it. After that you can choose where you want to set up camp," notes one camper who enjoyed the solitude.
Hiking and trail exploration: Blydenburgh County Park features a 7-mile loop trail around a lake with opportunities for wildlife viewing. A visitor mentioned "The group camping on the fox sites is accessible by a dirt drive in. I felt like I was suddenly transported upstate when in fact I had only driven 2 towns over. The hiking trails were quiet natural and clean. The trails I exposed were well marked."
Fishing and boating: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, with Blydenburgh County Park providing rowboat rentals. "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail," reports one visitor who enjoyed the water activities.
Stargazing at north shore beaches: At Wildwood State Park, campers can obtain special permits for nighttime beach access. "You have to buy a stargazing permit to be out on the beach after sunset, which is kind of strange but really helps prevent hooligans from taking over the beach and destroying the serenity," explains a visitor.
What campers like
North vs. south shore experiences: The two shorelines offer distinct camping environments. At Wildwood State Park, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campsites offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Smith Point County Park, "sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise," reports one camper about the unexpected wildlife viewing opportunities.
Proximity to other attractions: Many campgrounds serve as good base camps for exploring local points of interest. One camper at Wildwood State Park notes, "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound. (A little rocky on the north shore)."
Campsite spacing and privacy: Cathedral Pines County Park offers more secluded camping options than other Suffolk County sites. "Wooded sites are lovely. RV sites in large field," observes one visitor, highlighting the difference in site privacy depending on camping style.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, with some requiring Suffolk County residency. At Indian Island County Park, "Site was level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. No sewers sites that I could tell, and water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. At Watch Hill, one camper warns, "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Fire regulations vary: Not all campgrounds provide fire rings or allow ground fires. At Southaven County Park, "Usually every site has a decent fire pit/grill. Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive."
Bathroom and shower conditions: Facilities vary significantly between parks. "The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot. The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring," explains a visitor to Indian Island County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas specifically for younger campers. At Heckscher State Park, "This place is the best around for group and family camping. 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."
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting more comfort, several parks offer cabin options. Heckscher State Park features "newly constructed heated cottages located on the shore of Nichol's & Great South Bays. The cottages are fully furnished, with a full kitchen and large bathroom with a walk in shower."
Open site layouts: Family groups often prefer campgrounds with more open arrangements. At Heckscher, "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."
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds offer seasonal activities for children. "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," notes a visitor to Heckscher State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many RVers report varied experiences with site conditions. At Battle Row Campground, "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!"
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sometimes sewer connections vary between parks. At Smith Point County Park, "Sites are great overlooking the bay. Electric and water is nice for pop up. Little pricey compared to nys parks."
Site separation: RV sections often have different spacing than tent areas. At Smith Point County Park, "Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view."
