Suffolk County provides numerous camping spots near Shoreham, New York where campers can experience the coastal environment of Long Island. The region features a mix of county and state park campgrounds situated between the Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with high humidity levels, while spring and fall camping offers more moderate conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: Smith Point County Park offers excellent beach activities with sites positioned near the shoreline. One visitor notes, "A stones throw away from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view."
Fishing opportunities: Blydenburgh County Park provides lake fishing from shore or rental boats. A camper mentions, "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail."
Wine country exploration: Located near vineyards, Wildwood State Park Campground serves as a gateway to North Fork wineries. As one visitor states, "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound."
Nature programming: Fire Island offers ranger-led activities for visitors. A camper at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground reports, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Multiple campgrounds feature waterfront sites with scenic vistas. At Smith Point County Park, a visitor observed, "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to view local wildlife. One camper at Smith Point County Park mentioned, "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies."
Natural settings close to urban areas: Cathedral Pines County Park provides a wooded retreat despite suburban surroundings. A visitor noted, "Was a pretty spacious park, very quiet, nice people, but not very many electric sites."
Beach camping atmosphere: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground offers a unique backcountry beach experience. A camper shares, "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most parks require a county permit for residents. Smith Point County Park has specific eligibility requirements as one visitor explained: "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD."
Insect preparation: Coastal locations often have significant mosquito populations. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, a camper warned, "We were immediately getting attacked so we doused ourselves in deet. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long."
Campsite privacy levels: Southaven County Park offers more secluded sites than other area campgrounds. A visitor remarked, "Very wooded. Beware and prepare for ticks."
Fire pit policies: Some parks require campers to bring their own fire containers. At Indian Island County Park, a visitor noted, "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Island County Park offers recreational facilities for children. A visitor observed, "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids."
Nearby attractions: Wildwood State Park provides access to various family-friendly activities. A camper mentioned, "I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
Holiday programming: Smith Point County Park organizes seasonal events for younger campers. One visitor shared, "It also happened to be Trick or Treat weekend on the campground which really fun to see."
Beach accessibility: Distance to the shoreline varies by campground. An Indian Island County Park visitor noted, "Campsites are located close enough to the beach/marsh. Multiple playgrounds for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Wildwood State Park features designated RV camping areas. A camper reported, "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities."
Hookup availability: Electric and water services are available at most campgrounds, but sewer connections are limited. At Southaven County Park, a camper noted, "There seemed to be a disproportionate amount of dilapidated trailers on the side of the campground with no electricity."
Parking restrictions: Vehicle limitations exist at some parks. A Wildwood State Park visitor cautioned, "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles."
Dump station locations: Most parks have centralized waste facilities. An Indian Island County Park camper mentioned, "Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving (2 night visit) and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there."
