RV sites near West Sayville, New York range from basic electric hookups to full-service facilities with 50-amp connections. Located on the South Shore of Long Island, the area features a mix of oceanfront and wooded camping options within a 30-mile radius. Seasonal considerations affect campground availability with most tent camping areas open from May through September, while many RV parks operate year-round.
What to do
Beach access for campers: At Smith Point County Park, visitors can enjoy both bay and ocean beaches within walking distance of campsites. "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," notes camper Ali O.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cathedral Pines County Park offers hiking trails with chances to spot local wildlife. "Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," warns Connor M. Smith Point campers also report wildlife encounters: "And sweet deer. I watched a momma deer nursing two of her babies," shares Patrick C.
Water recreation options: Heckscher State Park Campground provides multiple water activities beyond basic beach access. "There is a shop at the entrance to get supplies if you need it... There are also hiking trails and a place where you can rent a kayak," explains Giselle P.
What campers like
Campsite spacing and layout: Battle Row Campground offers more secluded tent sites than many regional options. "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out," reports Michael M. The campground maintains clean facilities despite its age.
Hot showers and clean facilities: Many campers specifically praise the shower facilities at Smith Point County Park: "10 stars to guys and girls in charge of maintaining such a busy place!!! You guys really do a great job- and those showers!!! Best ever….great water pressure and super HOT!!!" exclaims Chris A.
Oceanfront camping views: Smith Point County Park offers premium waterfront locations. "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. Sites 230-270 specifically overlook the ocean according to camper Stephen P.
What you should know
Resident requirements at some parks: Suffolk County parks including Smith Point have specific residency restrictions. "ONLY DRAWBACKS, 1- YOU HAVE TO BE A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK CO, NY, 2- ONE WEEK STAY AT A TIME. PERIOD. After staying there, you'll wish all campgrounds were like this," notes Tim M.
Security considerations: Theft has been reported at some locations. "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. It's happened to me," warns Ella C. about Smith's Point.
Fire pit policies vary: Heckscher State Park and Battle Row have strict fire container requirements. "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," explains katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Heckscher State Park has dedicated playground facilities for campground guests. "There is a playground just for the campground... It's basically like camping in your local city park," observes Ellen C. Battle Row also features "a playground [that] is new and centrally located" according to katrina M.
Seasonal events: Smith Point County Park offers special programming during certain times. "It also happened to be Trick or Treat weekend on the campground which really fun to see," mentions Chris A. Heckscher State Park occasionally hosts special events: "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," shares Giselle P.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "[Battle Row] was my first time camping here and I was amazed at how clean the sites were & quiet the campground was," reports Lexis N. In contrast, Smith Point can be louder: "Not EVERYBODY likes the same music as you do!" notes Chris A.
Tips from RVers
NYC access from RV parks: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers the closest RV sites to New York City from the West Sayville area. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R. Several transportation options make city access convenient despite the parking lot-like setting.
Site selection strategy: For oceanfront RV camping, choose carefully at Smith Point. "Stayed at site 12. Sites are great overlooking the bay... I also like the corner sites as they are bigger. The 230-70 overlook the ocean which is great," advises Stephen P. The campground offers full hookups with electric, water, and sewer connections.
Off-season advantages: Consider timing for the best experience at popular RV parks. "We would only consider staying here again during the 'off-season' months when the campground isn't busy," suggests Ericka T. about Liberty Harbor RV Park. Crowds thin and navigation becomes easier outside summer months.
