Several campgrounds provide RV access to Shelter Island by ferry from both the North and South Forks of Long Island. The island itself, surrounded by Gardiners Bay and Shelter Island Sound, sits at sea level with moderate temperatures averaging 72°F in summer months. Cell reception can be spotty on parts of the island, particularly along the eastern shoreline where signal strength weakens.
What to do
Beach activities at Rocky Neck State Park: The state park offers a swimming beach within walking distance of the campground. "I love this campsite, I have been going with my friends and family for as long as I can remember. It's right near the beach, and the campsites and bathrooms are always clean!" notes a visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Kayaking and boating: Launch sites near RV parks provide water access for campers with personal watercraft. "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch," advises a camper about Rocky Neck State Park.
Historic site exploration: Fort Trumbull sits within walking distance of some RV sites. "Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn. Also took a tour of the Coast Guard Ship at Fort Trumbull," shares a reviewer at Crocker's Boatyard.
What campers like
Marina camping atmosphere: Some RV sites offer unique dockside settings near Shelter Island. "We backed right up to the waters edge practically. The people that dock here were so friendly and welcoming. The pool is very clean as are the bathrooms and showers," mentions a visitor at Crocker's Boatyard.
Pull-through site layouts: Spacious RV sites with full hookups provide comfortable setups. "We paid $150/night for a 'Premium Waterfront FHU Site' on the lake. A bit pricey, but really nice site including level concrete pad and patio, clean and well-maintained utilities, and beautiful view," reports a camper at Aces High RV Park.
Ferry access to Block Island: Some campgrounds provide walking distance to ferry transportation. "The next day we took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see. Took the 5 pm ferry back," shares a Crocker's Boatyard visitor.
What you should know
Bathroom quality varies significantly: Facility maintenance differs between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were dirty and only cleaned after our 4th day there. Dog area had not been mowed in weeks and there were no bags in the dispenser," warns a reviewer at Sun Outdoors Mystic.
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks operate May through October with limited winter availability. "This park is in a great location for exploring Mystic. Our stay was in the spring before their busy season started so some things like the pool and water features were closed."
Site spacing considerations: RV sites range from spacious to tightly packed. "The sites are VERY close, but the people are nice and we had a great stay," notes a camper at Ashaway RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several RV parks near Shelter Island offer swimming pools for children. "The kids areas looked great. Check in was easy. We have AT&T service and streamed via our hotspot with no problems," shares a Sun Outdoors Mystic visitor.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities. "It has a clean playground and well maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court," explains a camper at Aces High RV Park.
Dog-friendly areas: Pet policies vary between campgrounds. "There is also a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!" reports an Aces High RV Park reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with properly graded RV pads. "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio (I love a clean, level concrete pad!)," advises a reviewer at North Fork Cottages & RV Resort.
Hookup placement: Utility locations affect rig positioning and comfort. "Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should (other parks should come and take a look at how to do this right)," notes an Aces High RV Park camper.
Pull-through accessibility: Site configurations impact larger RVs. "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors."
