Suffolk County offers multiple RV parks near Smithtown, New York, with seasonal availability that extends beyond summer months. Smith Point County Park remains open year-round with full hookup sites accommodating larger vehicles, while other facilities operate on limited seasonal schedules. Winter camping options exist at select locations with varying levels of services and amenities during off-peak periods.
What to do
Beach activities at Smith Point County Park: The oceanfront camping provides immediate beach access with Atlantic Ocean views just steps from campsites. "A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit. Our site had a trex picnic table on a cement patio," notes a visitor at Smith Point County Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting attracts various wildlife that campers can observe. "You get visits from the nearby deer," mentions one camper about Smith Point. Another visitor shares, "I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies. This is paradise."
Urban exploration via public transit: Several RV parks offer convenient access to New York City. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Campsites with water views rank highly among visitor preferences. "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," shares a camper at Smith Point County Park.
Spacious sites at state parks: Heckscher State Park Campground offers generous camping areas. "Each site has a picnic table and barbeque grill. The sites are designated by printing on the roads and do not have clear boundaries between them. My site had good shade coverage and was free of rocks and other hazards."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive positive mentions. "The bathrooms were very clean and well stocked," notes a camper at Battle Row Campground. Another visitor adds, "The showers were amazing and also so clean!"
What you should know
Fire pit policies vary significantly: Not all campgrounds provide fire pits. At Battle Row Campground, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
Site boundaries can be unclear: Many campgrounds have open layouts without defined site borders. At Cathedral Pines County Park, "Usually every site has a decent fire pit/grill. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive."
Local resident discount systems: County parks offer lower rates for residents. "Suffolk County residents receive discounted camping rates at county parks," with some requiring special cards. At Cathedral Pines, a camper mentions it costs "$14 a night for green key members."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility varies: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. Heckscher State Park has "a playground just for the campground," though another camper notes the "playground is driving distance not walking."
Weekend activities at campgrounds: Seasonal events provide entertainment for children. At Smith's Point, a visitor shares, "It happened to be Trick or Treat weekend on the campground which really fun to see."
Security considerations: Valuables should be secured at campgrounds. One camper advises, "Please lock up your bikes cause high schoolers will go over the bridge and steal your bikes or alcohol if they aren't locked up at night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Waterfront sites can accommodate larger vehicles but require advance planning. At Smith Point, a visitor with "a 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay" had no issues with the site dimensions.
Utility hookups vary widely: Water and electrical connections differ between parks. At Totoket Valley RV Park, campers appreciate the "good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table."
Reservation timing matters: Many RV parks near Smithtown fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early," advises a camper about Smith's Point, noting the "narrow campsites" make advance reservations essential for securing preferred locations.
