Tent and RV camping options near St. James, New York include multiple county parks with varying accommodations throughout Suffolk County. Most campgrounds in this region require advance reservations and implement strict quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM during peak season (May through October). While horse trails exist in several parks for day use, integrated overnight facilities for horses remain minimal with no specialized equestrian camping sites.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Sears Bellows County Park features extensive wooded trails for outdoor recreation. "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!" notes Nadia V. at Sears Bellows County Park.
Waterfront activities: Boating and fishing opportunities abound at several county parks. "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," shares one Sears Bellows visitor. Beach access at Shinnecock East provides both bay and ocean fishing opportunities where "we catch stripe bass. The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," according to Anthony M.
City exploration: For campers willing to drive further, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique access to New York City. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," explains Shawn B.
What campers like
Beach proximity: The oceanfront setting at Shinnecock East County Park receives consistent praise. "Camping directly on the beach at one of the nicest beaches in the world. You cannot find another place like this!!" says Kayla G. The park offers both ocean and bay side camping options with "beautiful views" according to reviewers.
Peaceful woodland setting: Many campers appreciate the natural surroundings at county parks. "This hidden gem is located right in Hampton Bays and is the perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid. Tucked away in the woods is a beatiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites," writes Lexis N.
Playground access: Families note the recreational facilities available. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," reports Gino D., making this a consideration for those traveling with children seeking non-equestrian camping near St. James, New York.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Beach camping has specific access needs. At Shinnecock East County Park, "4x4 a must, air down a must" cautions Lisa M. This requirement applies to all vehicles accessing the beachfront camping areas.
Limited amenities: Most county parks provide basic facilities only. "The only down fall no electricity," notes Vivian T. about camping at Sears Bellows. Similarly, Nadia V. advises, "One thing to note is that there are not any electrical hook-ups, so if that is something you need you might now want to come stay here."
Reservation systems: Suffolk County parks require reservations, with peak season bookings opening months in advance. Sites fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods. Most campgrounds enforce a maximum 14-day stay policy during high season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: County parks with dedicated play areas provide recreational options for children. "My grandkids love camping here, it is so peaceful and great biking and hiking," shares Vivian T. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Educational opportunities: When exploring beyond St. James, family-friendly attractions include Liberty Science Center near Liberty Harbor RV Park. "Minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science center," notes Keith and Tia S.
Water activities: Supervised water recreation provides family entertainment. Rowboat rentals at Sears Bellows County Park cost approximately $15 per hour and life vests are required for children under 12. Fishing licenses are necessary for anglers 16 and older.
Tips from RVers
Parking configurations: RV sites vary significantly between parks. At Liberty Harbor, "Sites kind of level and very close. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S.
Hookup availability: Water connections exist at several campgrounds. "Each camp site spot has a provided water hook up. This campground does not have an electric hook up but generators are allowed!" explains one camper about Sears Bellows County Park.
Dump station access: Facilities for waste disposal have varying convenience levels. "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," notes one RVer, recommending weekday arrival or departure when possible to minimize wait times.
