Sears Bellows County Park features a large, clean playground with multiple slides where children can play while families camp in the wooded setting. Located 30 miles from Stony Brook in Riverhead, this park caters to tent and RV campers seeking an off-grid experience. The park's layout provides separation between bathroom facilities and shower areas, with hiking trails that connect to the scenic Bellows Pond.
What to do
Rowboat fishing: Rent boats at Bellows Pond for a peaceful fishing experience. "The first night I stayed here my friends and I rented some rowboats and went on the water. It was a lot of fun, and the price of the rowboat was pretty cheap," notes Nadia V. at Sears Bellows County Park.
Biking through wooded trails: Several parks maintain trail systems suitable for mountain biking. "The trails were beautiful, and the flowers were in bloom. There were people who were also biking on these trails, which looked like so much fun!" shares a Sears Bellows visitor.
Crabbing in the bay: The calmer waters provide excellent opportunities for crabbing near oceanfront camping areas. "The bay is peaceful and we go crabbing," explains Anthony M. from Shinnecock East County Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural spacing at wooded campgrounds. "Tucked away in the woods is a beatiful well kept & maintained campground with spacious sites," reports Lexis N. about Sears Bellows County Park.
Off-grid experience: The lack of electrical hookups appeals to those seeking to disconnect. "This hidden gem is located right in Hampton Bays and is the perfect campground for anyone looking to camp off the grid," according to a Sears Bellows visitor.
Urban access from rural settings: Some campsites offer surprising proximity to city attractions. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away," explains Shawn B. at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Some oceanfront camping areas require specific vehicle capabilities. "4x4 a must, air down a must," warns Lisa M. about beach access at Shinnecock East County Park.
No electrical hookups: While many campgrounds near Stony Brook offer water connections, electrical service is limited. "The only down fall no electricity," mentions Vivian T. about her otherwise positive experience camping with grandchildren.
Horse campgrounds near Stony Brook, New York: While dedicated equestrian facilities are limited near Stony Brook, several parks in the broader Long Island region permit day-use horse trails. Call ahead to verify current equestrian access policies as they change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children should consider campgrounds with recreational facilities. "The playground is really nice and big has a lot of slides," shares Gino D. from Sears Bellows County Park.
Kid-friendly hiking: Select shorter loop trails for younger children. "My grandkids love camping here, it is so peaceful and great biking and hiking," says Vivian T. about her family's experience at Sears Bellows.
Educational opportunities: Several camping areas provide access to historical sites. Nearby Liberty Science Center offers interactive exhibits for children, and the Statue of Liberty is accessible from select camping locations along the coast.
Tips from RVers
Tire pressure management: RVers camping on beaches must adjust their vehicles for sand travel. "Air down a must," advises Lisa M. about driving on beaches at Shinnecock East County Park.
Site selection strategy: When camping in more urban settings with limited space between sites, position matters. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," recommends Keith and Tia S. at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Generator policies: Check campground rules regarding generator use when electrical hookups aren't available. While some equestrian campgrounds near Stony Brook, New York prohibit generators, others allow them during specific hours to accommodate RV campers needing to charge equipment.
