Smith Point County Park offers tent and RV camping directly on the Atlantic shoreline, with sites situated between ocean and bay views. Sites have water and electric hookups, with modern restrooms and shower facilities available year-round. The park requires Suffolk County residency for camping reservations and limits stays to one week per visit.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Indian Island County Park: Kayak launches and beach access within walking distance of campsites. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities," notes Michael G. The park features multiple hiking trails and geocaching opportunities.
Hiking at Mountain Lakes Park: Multiple trail systems accessible directly from the camping and yurt areas. "There are also many hikes which can be trekked straight from the campgrounds which is always a huge plus in my mind," reports Ethan K. The park contains Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County, offering panoramic views.
Beach exploration at Wildwood State Park: Rocky shoreline along Long Island Sound provides unique beachcombing opportunities. "Beach is beautiful, very rocky, bring your water shoes, sunset scenery is beautiful!" advises Ossama B. The beach area includes a small boardwalk and swimming areas.
What campers like
Island seclusion at Collective Governors Island: Boat-only access creates a unique glamping experience with city proximity. The glamping accommodations feature electricity, premium bedding, and a market facility on-site.
Wildlife encounters at Smith Point County Park: Frequent deer sightings near campsites. "At night an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," says Tim M. The oceanfront sites offer direct views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Peconic Bay.
Convenience for Long Island wine country: Wildwood State Park provides easy access to North Fork vineyards. "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound," notes James O. Multiple orchards for fruit picking are located within short driving distance.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Indian Island sites offer minimal privacy. "All the camping spots are pretty much right next to each one with hardly any space, packed like sardines," reports Prashant M. Weekends and holidays can be particularly crowded.
Fire ring policies differ by park: Wildwood State Park and Indian Island require campers to bring or rent fire pits. "Lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own," notes Ossama B. Wildwood charges $8 daily for fire ring rentals.
Seasonal considerations: Mountain Lakes Park trails can become muddy after rainfall. "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery," notes Ethan K. Smith Point County Park remains open year-round while Wildwood operates April through mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Island County Park offers multiple play areas near campsites. "It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids," mentions Gino D. Some playground facilities may close seasonally or during maintenance periods.
Secure camping for children: Wildwood provides a safe environment for families. "Kids were roaming freely and safe!" reports Ossama B. The campground layout allows for easy supervision while giving children room to explore.
Yurt camping South Farmingdale, New York options: Camp Glen Gray offers family-friendly cabins within 60 miles. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked," reports Christopher M. Mountain Lakes Park also features yurt accommodations suitable for families with children.
Tips from RVers
RV site selections: Wildwood State Park offers dedicated RV areas with full hookups. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig," shares Lori R. Sites include water, electric, and sewer connections.
Smith Point leveling considerations: Oceanside RV sites provide optimal views with proper setup. "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," says Patrick C. Many sites feature cement pads with trex picnic tables.
Seasonal water access: Indian Island may shut off water during colder months. "Water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening. Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there," explains Janelle G.
