Indian Island County Park offers camping accommodations within 35 miles of Southampton on Long Island's north shore. The park maintains 137 campsites across flat, grassy terrain at 10-30 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime with cooler evenings around 65°F, creating favorable conditions for overnight stays from April through October when most facilities operate at full capacity.
What to do
Beach access from campsites: Walk directly to water access points at Smith Point County Park where sites provide views of both bay and ocean. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite. No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent," reports Ali O.
Hiking and exploration: Several miles of nature trails connect camping areas to scenic viewpoints and wildlife observation areas. A visitor at Wildwood State Park Campground noted, "There are hiking trails and you can walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple freshwater and saltwater fishing spots available throughout the area, especially at park ponds and shoreline access points. "Great sites overlooking the bay. Sites are great overlooking the bay... The 230-70 overlook the ocean which is great," according to Stephen P. at Smith Point County Park.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campsites offer direct water views with adequate space for equipment setup. According to Gianna at Smith Point County Park, "Truly great spot. Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view."
Clean, updated facilities: Most parks maintain modern shower buildings with hot water and flush toilets. "Bathrooms and showers were a good size. Rangers were driving around often but hand no issues with drink in red cups," notes Carolyn W. about her experience at Indian Island County Park.
Varied accommodation types: Options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV pads and glamping facilities near Southampton. A camper at Odetah Camping Resort shared, "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games, immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book early, especially for summer weekends when facilities fill quickly. A reviewer at Indian Island County Park cautions, "Stayed at this campground this past weekend and yes it was a long weekend so the campground was packed. All the camping spots are pretty much right next to each one with hardly any space, packed like Sardines."
Site selection considerations: Some sites lack shade while others have limited privacy. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," states Lori R. about Wildwood State Park.
Fire pit policies: Many campgrounds either require rentals or personal fire containers rather than providing permanent fire rings. "Nice size camp site, bathrooms are descent, lame not having a fire ring, you have to rent one or bring your own," notes Ossama B. from his stay at Wildwood State Park.
Beach conditions: Expect rocky shorelines rather than sandy beaches at certain locations, particularly on the north shore. "The beach is within walking distance, lots of little trails, and plenty of activities for the whole family. The bathrooms were mostly clean, and the shower was hot," explains Maxime T. about their Indian Island County Park experience.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for deer, birds, and small mammals throughout the natural areas. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. It is paradise," says Tim M. about his family's visit to Smith Point County Park.
Playground access: Most parks feature multiple playground areas suitable for different age groups. A camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground shared, "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach."
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events often take place during summer weekends, including crafts, outdoor movies, and games. "There is lots to do at the campground especially for kids. Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," according to Anne M. at Odetah Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many sites require some adjustment for proper trailer or motorhome setup. According to Janelle G. at Indian Island County Park, "Site was level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. Campsites are located close enough to the beach/marsh. No sewers sites that I could tell, and water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are standard at most sites, but sewer connections vary between parks. "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," describes Patrick C. about Smith Point County Park.
Site size limitations: Larger RVs should check ahead for appropriate site dimensions. A visitor at Wolf's Den Family Campground noted, "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers."
