The best camping near Heckscher State Park

Lying on the shore of the Great South Bay on Long Island, Heckscher State Park’s 1,600 acres are the setting for a number of outdoor activities, from picnicking and field sports on its large open fields, to hiking and biking along multi-use trails and spotting a variety of wildlife, including whitetail deer and various species of bird. Additionally, visitors can swim, boat, and kayak in the Great South Bay. The park has 67 campsites that are open from mid-May to early September and suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs.

1. Bookings can easily be secured online or by phone, up to nine months in advance.
2. Reservations are not required but are encouraged, especially in summer.
3. Check your dates: A steep cancelation fee is charged for bookings canceled within seven days (on top of a non-refundable reservation fee).

Summer is by far the busiest season in Heckscher State Park and its surroundings. If visiting in summer, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance and try to arrive early to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays. Visiting in spring or fall offers a quieter experience. Winters are crowd-free and offer activities such as snowshoeing.

• You’ll find plenty of grocery stores in East Islip, within a 10-minute drive.
• Two campsites are accessible, as are all pavilions.
• Dogs are only permitted on nature trails located in the undeveloped areas of the park, not in the campground.