Hither Hills State Park Campground

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For New Yorkers dreaming of a coastal escape where the sound of crashing waves lulls them to sleep, Hither Hills State Park Campground in Montauk offers an unparalleled oceanfront camping experience. Situated at the eastern tip of Long Island, this iconic New York State Park campground provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Montauk, with direct access to the beach and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a cherished destination for those seeking a classic camping adventure by the sea, offering a refreshing alternative to the typical upstate retreats.

Hither Hills State Park itself is a magnificent 1,755-acre park stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, encompassing diverse landscapes from sandy beaches and dunes to woodlands. The campground is nestled within this picturesque setting, providing a backdrop of natural splendor for your outdoor getaway. Imagine waking up to the salty breeze, stepping out of your tent or RV, and being just steps away from the expansive Montauk shoreline. The opportunity for "good view" experiences, as some visitors have noted, is truly a highlight here, with panoramic vistas of the ocean and the surrounding coastal environment.

While Hither Hills State Park Campground is celebrated for its incredible location and scenic beauty, it's a popular spot, and like any vibrant destination, it can have its lively moments. It attracts a diverse array of campers, from families with children to groups of friends, all drawn to the allure of oceanfront camping. This creates a dynamic atmosphere that often combines tranquil natural beauty with the sounds of a bustling campground enjoying their seaside escape. For New Yorkers looking for that quintessential Long Island beach camping adventure, Hither Hills promises an unforgettable connection with the coast.

Hither Hills State Park Campground is ideally located at Hither Hills State Park Campsite, 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA. This prime address places it on the outermost eastern tip of Long Island, providing direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and the unique coastal environment of Montauk.

For New York residents, particularly those in the greater New York City metropolitan area and Long Island, Hither Hills State Park offers relatively easy accessibility for a profound escape. While it requires a drive to the far reaches of Long Island, the journey itself can be part of the adventure, leading you through scenic towns and past iconic Hamptons landscapes before reaching the rugged beauty of Montauk. This makes it a popular destination for weekend getaways and longer vacations for those looking to leave the urban sprawl behind and embrace the seaside.

The campground's location within Hither Hills State Park means campers have direct access to the park's extensive features, including two miles of ocean beach. This immediate proximity to the water is a significant draw, allowing for easy enjoyment of swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing. Beyond the beach, the park also offers hiking trails and opportunities for exploring the unique coastal woodlands and dunes.

While the campground is set within a natural park environment, the town of Montauk is just a short drive away. This provides convenient access to local amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, charming shops, and other attractions like the Montauk Lighthouse. This blend of remote, natural beauty with accessible town services ensures campers can enjoy both the wilderness and the comforts of civilization during their stay, making it a highly desirable location for New Yorkers seeking a comprehensive coastal experience.

• Campsites: Hither Hills State Park Campground offers sites for both tents and RVs. All campsites are located close to the ocean, providing easy beach access.

• Restrooms and Showers: Modern restroom facilities with hot showers are available for campers, ensuring comfort during your stay.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for outdoor dining and campfires.

• Direct Beach Access: A key service is the unparalleled direct access to two miles of ocean beach within Hither Hills State Park, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.

• Playground: A playground is typically available for children, offering a dedicated space for younger campers to play and burn off energy.

• Dumping Station: For RV campers, a dumping station is usually provided on-site for waste disposal.

• Recycling Center: The park often includes a recycling center to encourage environmentally conscious practices among campers.

• Campground Store (seasonal): During peak season, a campground store may be available for basic supplies, firewood, and ice, though this can vary.

• Fishing Access: The park provides opportunities for surf fishing, particularly for striped bass and bluefish, with a valid New York State fishing license. Specific areas may allow night fishing with a permit.

• Hiking Trails: Access to various hiking trails within Hither Hills State Park allows campers to explore the park's diverse landscapes, including woodlands, dunes, and bluffs.

• Enforcement of Rules (variable): While rules like quiet hours are in place to ensure a pleasant experience for all, visitors should be aware that enforcement can sometimes vary.

• Oceanfront Location: The most significant highlight of Hither Hills State Park Campground is its direct oceanfront location. Being able to camp just steps from the Atlantic Ocean offers an unparalleled coastal experience in New York, with stunning views and the soothing sound of waves.

• Direct Beach Access: Campers enjoy immediate access to two miles of beautiful ocean beach, making it incredibly convenient for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing without having to drive to a separate location.

• Scenic Views: Visitors consistently praise the "good view" from the campground, encompassing the vast expanse of the ocean, the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse in the distance, and the natural beauty of the surrounding dunes and coastal landscape.

• Montauk Destination: As part of Hither Hills State Park, the campground is embedded within a prime Montauk location, offering easy access to the charming town of Montauk itself, with its unique shops, restaurants, and fishing village atmosphere.

• Fishing Opportunities: The park is renowned for its excellent surf fishing opportunities, particularly for striped bass and bluefish, attracting anglers from across the region. Night fishing is also permitted in specific areas with a permit.

• Diverse Natural Environment: Beyond the beach, the 1,755-acre park features unique "walking dunes" as well as dense woodlands, providing varied landscapes for exploration and enjoyment, from hiking to birdwatching.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere (generally): While specific experiences can vary, state park campgrounds generally aim to provide a family-friendly environment with facilities like playgrounds, catering to campers of all ages.

• New York State Park Experience: Camping here offers the quintessential New York State Park experience, known for well-maintained facilities and access to significant natural and recreational resources.

As a New York State Park campground, Hither Hills State Park Campground generally operates on a fixed fee schedule determined by the state park system, rather than offering frequent, dynamic promotions or special discounts. The value and "special offer" of camping here largely come from its unique and highly desirable oceanfront location, which is a premium amenity in itself.

However, campers should be aware of a few aspects related to pricing and booking that might be considered beneficial:

• Reservation System: Campsites at Hither Hills are highly sought after, especially during peak season (summer). The ability to reserve sites well in advance (typically up to nine months ahead) is a crucial "offer" for securing a spot at this popular destination. Early booking is essential, particularly for preferred dates and site types.

• Empire Pass: For frequent visitors to New York State Parks, purchasing an annual Empire Pass can offer significant savings on vehicle entrance fees at all state parks, including Hither Hills. While it doesn't discount the camping fee itself, it reduces the overall cost of accessing the park for day use during your stay or for future visits.

• Off-Season Rates: While specific details are not provided, some state parks may offer slightly reduced rates or greater availability during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to the peak summer months. Visiting during these times can sometimes provide a more affordable or less crowded experience.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, reservation policies, and any potential seasonal variations, New Yorkers should consult the official New York State Parks website or contact the campground directly.

To plan your oceanfront camping adventure at Hither Hills State Park Campground, or to inquire about reservations and park details, please use the following contact information:

• Address: Hither Hills State Park Campsite, 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA

• For reservations and detailed information regarding New York State Park campgrounds, it is most effective to visit the official New York State Parks website or use their online reservation system.

• While a direct general phone number for the campground office might not always be publicly listed or consistently staffed, the main number for New York State Parks information can be helpful for general inquiries, or a specific number for the Hither Hills park office might be available on the State Parks website.

Given the popularity of this campground, especially during peak season, booking well in advance through the official New York State Parks reservation portal is highly recommended to secure your desired dates and site type.

For residents of New York, Hither Hills State Park Campground offers an incredibly suitable and sought-after camping experience that truly capitalizes on the state's diverse natural beauty. Its unique oceanfront location on Long Island's eastern tip provides an immediate and profound escape from the urban environment, offering a distinctly different kind of outdoor adventure compared to upstate mountain or lake camping.

The primary appeal for New Yorkers is the unparalleled access to the Atlantic Ocean. Being able to camp literally steps from the beach means that families can easily enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or trying their hand at surf fishing whenever they please, without the hassle of daily commutes to and from the beach. This convenience is a significant luxury, especially during the warm summer months. The stunning ocean views and the soothing sound of the waves create an atmosphere of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere within such accessible proximity to a major metropolitan area.

Furthermore, Hither Hills State Park itself offers a rich natural environment to explore. The park's diverse landscape, from its unique walking dunes to its scenic hiking trails, provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation beyond just beach activities. For local anglers, the renowned surf fishing for striped bass and bluefish is a major draw, offering a chance to pursue their passion close to home.

While the campground can be lively, especially during peak times, it reflects the vibrant energy of a popular New York destination. For many locals, it's a nostalgic spot where generations have made memories, and it continues to be a go-to for a classic Long Island beach camping experience. The combination of stunning natural beauty, direct ocean access, diverse recreational opportunities, and its manageable distance for many New Yorkers makes Hither Hills State Park Campground an ideal and cherished destination for a refreshing and memorable coastal getaway right in their own backyard.

Hither Hills State Park Campground

Hither Hills State Park Campsite, 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA