Suffolk County campgrounds dominate the RV scene in central Long Island, with several quality options within 30 minutes of Yaphank. The area features a mix of county and state parks offering camping access from late spring through fall, with a few year-round facilities. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 10-50 feet above sea level, creating relatively level terrain suitable for RVs of various sizes.
What to do
Beach access: Cathedral Pines County Park has wooded trails and spacious sites. "Usually every site has a decent fire pit/grill. Usually quiet, occasional deer. Be sure to lock food away as the raccoons are pretty invasive," notes Connor M.
Swimming options: Rocky Neck State Park Campground features a swimming beach about 15 minutes from most campsites. "The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails. A great family campsite with easy to get to activities," explains Mauricio R.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds in Suffolk County report regular deer sightings. "Camp near the bay and ocean with deer visiting campsites. "You get visits from the nearby deer," mentions Tim M. about camping in the area.
What campers like
Quiet wooded sites: Heckscher State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its natural setting. "I camped here solo on Friday and Saturday over the Labor Day weekend. My site had good shade coverage and was free of rocks and other hazards," reports Thorin J.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathroom building is in the middle of the campground and was clean and had plenty of stalls. Potable water is available at regular intervals, about at the corners of each group of four campsites," notes Thorin J.
Fire pit options: For campers seeking evening campfires, policies vary. "If you're looking for privacy, the sites at the rear seemed to be less-densely packed, even though every site was occupied. Quiet hours are generally adhered to but not enforced," says Thorin J. about Heckscher State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Suffolk County campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during summer months. "I emailed the parks department about the issues mentioned above about the camping area and received this reply: 'We have replaced all of the picnic tables...We have changed and modernized the light fixtures...There are also plans to install a playground within the campground,'" reported Ellen C. about one park.
Site preferences: Smith Point County Park offers prime waterfront locations. "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," writes Gianna.
Campground capacity: During peak summer weekends, expect full campgrounds. "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach," says Karen R. about Smith Point County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly beaches. "I love Smith Point campground! 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," advises Ali O.
Playground availability: Hither Hills State Park Campground includes family-oriented amenities. "We really enjoyed this campground. The beach is great and the staff was very friendly. The camp sites are close to each other with little to no privacy but everyone in our area was nice. There's a ton of family's with kids," explains Megan B.
Age-appropriate activities: Look for campgrounds with structured activities for children. "Good management, common areas are very clean, nice showers cleaner than my gym in the city," notes Murat H. about Hither Hills.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most campgrounds accommodate standard RVs, but size restrictions apply. "If your whole idea of camping is a beach style then this is it! Great view and nice beach. Nice place to run and also ride a road bike in the mornings," notes Ron L. about Hither Hills State Park.
Hookup availability: Battle Row Campground offers limited hookups. "This campground is old and there isn't much there, but it depends on why you're camping whether that matters to you. We wanted to be by the beach and we were," explains Katrina M.
Water access considerations: RV campers should note varying water hookup arrangements. "The water spigot and the gray-water dump are not right by the tent sites. Seems silly since the tents are the ones using them," reports Katrina M. about Battle Row.
