The North Shore of Long Island is a hidden gem for camping enthusiasts, offering a range of affordable and unique outdoor experiences. From fishing and paddleboarding to karaoke around the fire, these campgrounds provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here's a closer look at some of the top spots to consider for your next camping adventure.
Wildwood State Park
Wildwood State Park is a nature lover's paradise, spanning 767 acres of hardwood forest, 14 miles of hiking and biking trails, and 1.5 miles of Long Island Sound beachfront. It's a place where you can truly feel like you've escaped the island, with less crowding than other popular spots. The park offers a range of amenities, including snack and gift shops, sports facilities, playgrounds, and even a 'take a book, leave a book' nook, maintained by a dedicated volunteer.
Cost: $20-$37 per night
Reserve: Reserveamerica.com or 800-456-2267
Info: 631-929-4314, parks.ny.gov
Peconic River Campground
This rustic campground has a rich history, dating back to the 1940s when Tyler Histand's grandfather owned a duck farm in the area. Today, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and campfire singers alike. The campsites come equipped with stone fire rings, picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs, and campers often bring their own karaoke machines and stereo systems. It's a place where you can unplug, relax, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Cost: $35 per night
Reserve: Hipcamp app
Info: 631-484-4931, peconicrivercampground.com
McCann's Campground
Located in the Village of Greenport, McCann's Campground is a more basic option, with RV sites tending to book up faster. However, tent sites are usually available throughout the season. Each site includes a fire pit, picnic table, and Wi-Fi, and there's an on-site bathhouse and sink for convenience. The campground is a great base for exploring downtown Greenport's restaurants, thrift shops, and galleries.
Cost: $46-$63 per night
Reserve: By phone
Info: 631-477-0043, villageofgreenport.gov
Cathedral Pines County Park
Cathedral Pines County Park is a nature lover's paradise, boasting a new playground, splash pad area, and soon-to-open pickleball and sports courts. The campground offers basic and electric campsites with water and fire rings on-site. The park also features a picnic area, ice cream concession, and a mountain bike trail. For those interested in history, the adjacent Prosser Pines Nature Preserve offers a 0.7-mile hike through a rare white pine forest planted in 1812.
Cost: $9-$36 per night
Info: 631-852-5502, suffolkcountyny.gov
Indian Island County Park
This nearly 300-acre wooded park and campground is a hidden gem, offering one of Suffolk's most scenic picnicking areas with tables, grills, and benches overlooking Flanders Bay. Activities include kayaking and fishing, making it a perfect spot for those who love the water. The park is a peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
Cost: $9-$36 per night
Info: 631-852-3232, suffolkcountyny.gov
Blydenburgh County Park Campground
Blydenburgh County Park Campground is a larger park, spanning 588 acres and featuring hiking and bridle paths, an off-leash dog park, and a historic district with 19th-century farm buildings. The campground offers a range of amenities, including 50 trailer and tent sites, and is a great option for those who want to explore the park's diverse offerings.
Cost: $9-$36 per night
Info: 631-854-3712, suffolkcountyny.gov
These North Shore campgrounds offer a range of experiences, from peaceful nature escapes to fun-filled family adventures. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these spots are sure to create lasting memories and a deeper connection with the great outdoors.
