Suffolk County campgrounds offer direct access to Long Island's south shore beaches along with woodland settings further inland. Most campsites near Shirley operate seasonally from April through October, though some RV parks remain open year-round. Temperature fluctuations between coastal and inland locations can vary by 5-10 degrees during summer months.
What to do
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides direct ocean access with swimming areas monitored by lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes one camper at Smith Point County Park. The park permits fishing along designated shoreline areas outside of swimming zones.
Wildlife viewing: Cathedral Pines County Park offers wooded trails where visitors frequently spot local deer populations. "Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," advises a visitor at Cathedral Pines County Park. Early morning hours provide optimal wildlife viewing conditions.
Hiking: Rocky Neck State Park maintains several coastal trails with terrain suitable for most skill levels. A reviewer at Rocky Neck State Park Campground mentions the park features "available mountain bike and hiking trails" accessible directly from the campground. Trail maps can be obtained at the park office.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Multiple campgrounds offer sites with direct water views. At Smith's Point, one visitor noted the appeal of sites overlooking the water: "Nice park, not as clean as it used to be." Another camper reported staying "on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view" at Smith Point County Park.
Convenient beach access: Proximity to beaches rates highly among camper reviews. "Great first experience. Had onsite bathrooms and showers that were clean. 1 minute walk over the dune to the Atlantic ocean," reports a camper about Smith's Point. Sites closer to beach access typically fill first during reservation periods.
Local wildlife encounters: Deer sightings occur regularly at many Suffolk County campgrounds. A visitor to Smith Point County Park mentioned "you get visits from the nearby deer." Some campers report deer approaching within feet of their sites during early morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. "We ended up luckily getting a spot because a friend had cancelled the reservation. Must reserve early in the year for summer spots," warns a visitor to Hither Hills State Park Campground. Most parks open reservations 9 months in advance.
Site privacy variations: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of site separation and privacy. "Sites are exactly what we needed. Grassy and flat for our tent. Easy access to water and electric," notes a camper at Eastern Long Island Kampground. Many campgrounds feature exposed, open sites with minimal visual barriers between neighbors.
Seasonal pest considerations: Insect activity peaks during summer months, particularly at wooded sites. A Smith Point visitor advises to "make sure to bring a can of bug spray!" Sites closer to water typically experience higher mosquito activity during evening hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," mentions a visitor to Battle Row Campground. Most playgrounds cater to children ages 5-12.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events occur at larger parks during summer months. A Rocky Neck State Park visitor noted, "Great family place" with beach activities suitable for various age groups. Some parks offer ranger-led programs on weekends.
Noise considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds often maintain active atmospheres until quiet hours. "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," explains a Smith Point County Park camper. Sites furthest from central facilities typically offer more subdued environments.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger units. "Sites are great overlooking the bay. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger," advises an RVer at Heckscher State Park Campground. Corner sites generally provide 2-4 additional feet of width compared to standard sites.
Hookup availability: Water and electrical connections differ between rv parks in Shirley, New York and surrounding areas. "Electric and water is nice for pop up," notes a Smith Point camper. Most parks offering RV accommodations provide at minimum 30-amp service, with selected sites offering 50-amp connections.
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities show varying degrees of accessibility. Totoket Valley RV Park receives positive reviews for its facilities: "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner." Mobile pump service visits some campgrounds without permanent dump stations for an additional fee.
