Best Campgrounds near Shirley, NY
Campgrounds near Shirley, New York primarily cluster around the coastal areas of Long Island, with Smith Point County Park being the most prominent camping destination directly in Shirley. The region includes several established campgrounds within a 20-mile radius, including Wildwood State Park, Southaven County Park, and Cathedral Pines County Park. Accommodation options range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with some locations like Wildwood State Park and Watch Hill Fire Island Campground offering cabin camping. Most campgrounds provide essential amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, though specific features vary between locations.
Reservations are strongly recommended for all campgrounds in the area, particularly during the peak summer season when facilities reach capacity. Many Suffolk County parks require a Green Key card membership for residents to make reservations, and several campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through October. Wildwood State Park maintains a camping season from April 1 to October 10, while Heckscher State Park operates from late May through early September. Smith Point County Park and Southaven County Park remain open year-round, offering more flexibility for off-season camping. A recent review noted that "camping on the beach with all the amenities" makes Smith Point County Park "paradise," though Suffolk County residency requirements limit access for non-locals.
Beach access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the area, with oceanfront camping available at Smith Point County Park. Several visitors mentioned the unique experience of having campsites within walking distance of both the Atlantic Ocean and the bay. One camper shared that their "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." Wildlife sightings, particularly deer, are common at several campgrounds. The region experiences typical northeastern seasonal patterns, with moderate temperatures in spring and fall, hot and humid summers, and cold winters. Campers should prepare for insects, particularly near water areas during summer months. Sites typically provide varying levels of privacy, with wooded campgrounds like Cathedral Pines and Southaven County Park offering more secluded settings than the more open oceanfront locations.
