Smith Point County Park Campground

For many New Yorkers, the allure of a beachside escape is irresistible, and when that escape also offers the joys of camping, it becomes a truly special destination. Smith Point County Park Campground, perfectly situated on the edge of the iconic Fire Island barrier beach in Shirley, NY, is precisely such a place. It’s far more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s an experience described by loyal visitors as "a patchwork of salty breeze, laughter by firelight, and moments that feel almost timeless."

As a Suffolk County Park, Smith Point County Park Campground is a highly sought-after location for New Yorkers looking to combine their love for the outdoors with the unique appeal of coastal living. Its popularity stems from its prime location, offering direct access to both the rolling Atlantic surf and the calmer waters of the bay. While it provides a vibrant, lively atmosphere, especially during peak season, it delivers on the promise of a memorable beach camping adventure right here on Long Island. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the experience, Smith Point offers a dynamic environment where seaside memories are made.

Smith Point County Park Campground is prominently located at 1 William Floyd Pkwy, Shirley, NY 11967, serving as the gateway to the eastern end of Fire Island. This strategic address places campers directly on a unique barrier beach, providing unparalleled access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Narrow Bay. For New York residents, particularly those in Long Island, its accessibility is a major draw. The William Floyd Parkway (accessible via Long Island Expressway, Exit 68 South) leads directly to the park, crossing Narrow Bay via the two-lane Smith Point Bridge.

This drive-in accessibility is a significant convenience for campers bringing tents, trailers, or RVs. While it is a popular destination and can be lively, the sense of being on a barrier island provides a distinct escape from the mainland's hustle. Visitors can easily access the white sands and surf, with large parking fields and even tunnels leading directly to the seashore. It's important to note that specific rules and reservation requirements apply, especially for Suffolk County residents who may receive priority or specific discounts. Campers are advised to confirm all check-in procedures and vehicle restrictions, as regulations can be strictly enforced. Some visitors have noted the necessity of confirming all park policies, including those related to vehicle inspections, to ensure a smooth check-in process.

• Tent & Trailer Sites: Smith Point County Park Campground offers approximately 270 campsites, accommodating both tents and a wide range of trailers and RVs.
• Water & Electric Hookups: All campsites are equipped with water hookups, and many also feature electric hookups (30 or 50 amp service) and sewer connections, providing essential comforts for RVers. Full hookup sites are particularly popular.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides well-maintained bathhouse facilities with clean restrooms and showers, located within easy walking distance of most sites.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available on-site for RV and trailer waste disposal, ensuring convenience for self-contained units.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each site typically includes a picnic table (often a durable Trex table on a cement patio) and a fire pit, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Food Concession/Snack Bar: The park features a food concession area or snack bar (like "The Wave" or "The Beach Hut") offering snacks, Italian Ices, a comprehensive menu, and often live music during summer evenings. There's even an ice cream truck that makes rounds.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• Outer Beach Access: With proper permits, people may drive off-road vehicles on designated portions of the outer beach (typically the western portion).
• Lifeguarded Beach: A nationally recognized team of lifeguards staffs the swimming areas during designated hours, ensuring safety for beachgoers.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are generally allowed in the campground and on the beach during non-lifeguard hours, provided they are leashed and owners clean up after them. Specific pet policies should always be verified.
• On-Site General Store: A general store, sometimes with an ice cream shop window, is available on the grounds for essential supplies and treats.
• WiFi Connectivity: Some areas of the campground or park facilities may offer Wi-Fi, providing a degree of connectivity, though performance can vary.

• Direct Beach and Bay Access: The premier highlight of Smith Point County Park Campground is its unparalleled location on the Fire Island barrier beach, offering direct, short walks to both the Atlantic Ocean and Narrow Bay. This provides campers with diverse water experiences, from surfing and ocean swimming to calmer bay activities.
• Stunning Views: Many campsites, particularly those on the bayside (like sites overlooking the bay), offer fantastic, direct water views, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience. Oceanfront sites are also highly sought after.
• Vibrant and Lively Atmosphere: Especially during peak summer months, the campground buzzes with activity. Campers enjoy a lively environment with late-night campfire chats, laughter, and a strong sense of community. Seasonal events and live music at nearby establishments enhance the vibrant mood.
• Wildlife Encounters: Campers frequently report delightful visits from local deer, including does nursing their fawns, adding a touch of nature's magic to your stay. Bird watching opportunities are also abundant.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, clean facilities, and lifeguarded beaches, Smith Point is exceptionally well-suited for families with children, ensuring entertainment and comfort for all ages.
• Fishing and Water Sports: The park is a haven for sportsmen. Saltwater fishing from the beach or bay is popular, and opportunities for scuba diving and surfing abound. Non-motorized boating is also enjoyed on the bay side.
• Seasonal Events and Live Music: Throughout the summer, Smith Point County Park often hosts special events and features live music at The Beach Hut cafeteria, providing entertainment options right within the park.
• Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets: The unique positioning on a barrier island provides breathtaking sunrises over the ocean and equally stunning sunsets over the bay, creating memorable moments for campers.

Address: 1 William Floyd Pkwy, Shirley, NY 11967, USA

Phone: (631) 852-1315

Mobile Phone: +1 631-852-1315

Smith Point County Park Campground is managed by Suffolk County Parks. For reservations, up-to-date rules and regulations (which can change, as noted by some campers, regarding vehicle inspections), and any specific inquiries about site availability, amenities, or special events, it is highly recommended that New York residents contact the park office directly or utilize the Suffolk County Parks online reservation system. Reservations are required for all sites and can be competitive, especially for prime oceanfront or bay view spots. Information on Suffolk County resident discounts and specific stay limits can also be obtained through these channels.

For New York residents, especially those on Long Island, Smith Point County Park Campground is an unparalleled local gem that offers a complete beach camping experience without the need for extensive travel. Its prime location on the Fire Island barrier beach provides the unique benefit of having both the majestic Atlantic Ocean and the calmer bay waters within a stone's throw of your campsite. This accessibility means that a memorable coastal getaway is easily within reach for a weekend or a longer vacation, making it an incredibly convenient option for New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape.

The campground's suitability for locals is further amplified by its robust amenities. Unlike more primitive sites, Smith Point offers the comforts of water, electric, and even sewer hookups for RVs, along with clean restrooms and showers. This blend of nature and convenience makes it appealing to a wide range of campers, from families with young children who appreciate the playground and lifeguarded beach to those who prefer the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. The lively, family-friendly atmosphere, often accompanied by local wildlife sightings like deer, creates a vibrant community feel that many New Yorkers cherish.

Moreover, the array of activities, from swimming, surfing, and fishing to exploring the outer beach with permits, ensures that there's never a dull moment. The presence of on-site food concessions and seasonal entertainment further enhances the experience, allowing campers to truly relax and enjoy their time. Despite occasional minor issues like strict check-in policies (which highlight the importance of being prepared and informed), the overwhelming sentiment from long-time patrons is one of deep affection and appreciation for this "paradise" on Long Island. Smith Point County Park Campground truly represents the best of New York's outdoor offerings, providing a beloved and accessible haven for locals to create lasting memories by the sea.

Smith Point County Park Campground

1 William Floyd Pkwy, Shirley, NY 11967, USA