Camping options near Smithtown, New York extend beyond the immediate vicinity, with sites available within a 30-mile radius in Suffolk County. The region sits on Long Island's glacial moraine, creating a mix of flat coastal areas and gently rolling wooded terrain. Campgrounds typically open from April through October, with peak season rates from Memorial Day to Labor Day and limited winter availability at county parks.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Blydenburgh County Park features a popular 7-mile loop trail around a freshwater lake. A camper noted, "Great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail" (Blydenburgh County Park). The trail system accommodates various outdoor activities, including fishing and nature observation.
Beach activities: Smith Point County Park provides direct ocean access with minimal hiking required. "Our 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" (Smith Point County Park). The park has designated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguard coverage.
Backcountry beach camping: Fire Island National Seashore offers a more secluded option. "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" (Watch Hill Fire Island Campground). Permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry areas.
What campers like
Suffolk County Green Key benefits: The county resident discount card proves worthwhile for frequent campers. "If your going to be on Long Island, Suffolk county is really only RV friendly place. Worth buying green key card for resident access. 200 but you'd spend that 4 nights regardless. Very clean campgrounds lots of space" (Blydenburgh County Park).
Seasonal activities: Heckscher State Park organizes special events during camping season. "On one visit there was a magician performing for the camp goers. I've even been there while there was a philharmonic concert near the campground" (Heckscher State Park Campground). The park also hosts themed weekends, particularly around holidays.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds feature resident deer populations that have become accustomed to humans. "You get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," notes a Smith Point County Park camper. The deer are commonly seen during morning and evening hours near wooded areas and campsite edges.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Wildwood State Park, site types vary considerably. "This is a very nice campground with various kinds of sites. You can find sites that are less wooded and better suited to group camping, as well as sites that are a little more secluded" (Wildwood State Park Campground). The park offers platform sites for tent campers seeking solid foundations.
Fire pit policies vary: Many Suffolk County parks do not provide fire rings or pits. "There are NO fire pits on any of the sites, although I learned afterwards that they do allow you to bring your own metal fire pit as long as it is elevated off the ground" (Heckscher State Park). Some parks rent fire pits for daily fees, or campers must bring portable contained fire pits.
Insect preparation essential: Coastal sites particularly experience significant insect activity. "It was absolutely gorgeous, don't get me wrong. However, it was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend" (Watch Hill Fire Island Campground). DEET-based repellents are recommended for summer camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Southaven County Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Perfect place to take the little ones has a beautiful lake and a really nice playground highly recommended" (Southaven County Park). The playground is centrally located near camping areas for easy access.
Beach proximity considerations: Cabin rentals at Heckscher provide convenience with young children. "This was a last-minute booking for us and we were delighted with the beachside cottage, with enough amenities that mom and dad did not worry we had their cutie with us for camping. She's too little for backpacking into the woods but finally got to stay overnight and help with the campfire!" While comfortable, note that "playground is driving distance not walking."
Seasonal programming: Campgrounds often schedule children's activities. "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids" (Watch Hill Fire Island Campground). Activities typically include junior ranger programs, nature walks, and educational presentations about local ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access challenges: Long Island's parkway system creates navigation difficulties. "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges" (Nickerson Beach Park Campground). Use truck-specific GPS or plan routes using non-parkway roads.
Parking restrictions: Vehicle limitations affect group camping logistics. "Recently they became very stringent about parking to vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles. I usually host group camping trips and the single vehicle rule makes that very difficult" (Wildwood State Park). Additional vehicles must use overflow parking areas.
Utility hookups: RV sites at Blydenburgh County Park include full service connections. "Sites are great overlooking the bay. Bathroom lights are bright. 10 would be better. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger. Electric and water is nice for pop up" (Smith Point County Park). Thirty and fifty-amp electrical service is available at select campgrounds with reservations recommended.
