Heckscher State Park

4.53

73 reviews

P.O. Box 160, EAST ISLIP, New York, 11730, United States

Featured in:Beach Camping New York Hidden Gem Campgrounds New York Group Camping New York +1 more

Quick Facts

16 ft

Price

$20 - $200/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

16 ft

Price

$20 - $200/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Heckscher State Park

$20.00 - $200.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cottages require a $200 refundable deposit (via credit card) at check-in. Campground-specific fees include a second car pass for $20, valid for the...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America

Provider

6315812100

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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 73 reviews

52 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomssites

"User reviews are generally positive, with praise for the park's well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, and variety of recreational activities. Some criticism is directed at the lack of fire pits, inconsistent cleanliness of restrooms, and limited privacy between campsites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O. Box 160, EAST ISLIP, New York, 11730, United States

Heckscher State Park

P.O. Box 160, EAST ISLIP, New York, 11730, United States

Driving directionsThe park is located at the end of the Heckscher State Pkwy, 50 miles from Manhattan, on the south shore of Long Island, within the East Islip/Great River Area in Suffolk County.

The park is accessible via Heckscher State Parkway, making it convenient for travelers coming from Manhattan or other parts of Long Island.

Nearby supplies

User review mentions Pat’s Marketplace as a nearby grocery store with a large selection of prepared meals. Additional supply locations not explicitly stated.

Best Time to Camp at Heckscher State Park

Experience the full drama of Atlantic coastal seasons at Heckscher State Park. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, where occasional snowfall dusts the trails and creates magical scenes along the bayfront. As spring awakens the park with blooming wildflowers and migrating birds, temperatures climb toward the warm, salt-tinged days of summer. Though summer afternoons can bring that characteristic coastal humidity, the bay breeze offers natural air conditioning, making even the muggiest days perfect for outdoor adventures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, kayaking and beach use; some insect/tick reports.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Coastal fall offers cooler, scenic visits with fewer crowds; requires preparation.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring good for birding and active wetlands; trails reopen and wildlife is active.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter is serene with occasional snow and open trails but limited activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Specific peak season dates not mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservations available year-round, with specific rules for cottages during core season requiring a minimum 7-night stay.
Current Alerts: No active alerts reported.

About Heckscher State Park

Where the Atlantic breeze meets 1,600 acres of coastal paradise, Heckscher State Park unfolds along Long Island's stunning south shore. This beloved recreational haven invites visitors to explore miles of paved trails perfect for cycling adventures and sunset strolls, discover sprawling picnic groves shaded by mature trees, and lose themselves in open meadows ideal for everything from frisbee to family football games. With the sparkling waters of the Great South Bay as your backdrop, every visit promises a new discovery in this expansive natural playground.

The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, as well as cottage rentals.

Historical SignificanceThe story of Heckscher State Park reads like a chapter from Long Island's gilded past. These sprawling grounds once formed parts of the prestigious estates belonging to George C. Taylor and J. Neal Plum, where manicured lawns met wild coastline in perfect harmony. The transformation from private paradise to public treasure came through the visionary partnership of master planner Robert Moses and Governor Alfred E. Smith, who recognized that such natural splendor belonged to all New Yorkers. Today, their legacy lives on in every family gathering and sunset viewed from these historic shores.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Atlantic coastal seasons at Heckscher State Park. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, where occasional snowfall dusts the trails and creates magical scenes along the bayfront. As spring awakens the park with blooming wildflowers and migrating birds, temperatures climb toward the warm, salt-tinged days of summer. Though summer afternoons can bring that characteristic coastal humidity, the bay breeze offers natural air conditioning, making even the muggiest days perfect for outdoor adventures.

ElevationThe park's gentle coastal topography creates an accessible landscape where meadows roll softly toward the bay, offering easy exploration for visitors of all abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryStand at the water's edge and watch as the Great South Bay stretches endlessly before you, with the distant silhouette of Fire Island painting the horizon. This coastal sanctuary showcases nature's artistry at every turn – from morning mists rising off tidal marshes to golden hour light dancing across the water. Lucky visitors might spot graceful whitetail deer emerging from wooded edges at dawn, while bird enthusiasts will delight in the diverse avian population that calls these varied habitats home. The interplay of forest, field, and shoreline creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.

Geological RegionPerched on Long Island's storied south shore, Heckscher State Park serves as a window into the dynamic coastal ecosystem where land meets sea. Here, the Great South Bay's protected waters have shaped centuries of maritime heritage, creating a unique ecological tapestry where salt marshes transition to upland forests. This special meeting place of terrestrial and marine environments supports an impressive diversity of plant and animal life, making every visit an opportunity to witness the delicate balance of coastal Long Island's natural systems.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in latest by 9 PM.

Check-out

Specific check-out time not provided.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is capped at 14 continuous nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Specific number of guests per campsite is not detailed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are described as spacious but lack privacy due to no bushes or trees separating them.

Reservation PlatformsReservations should only be made through Reserve America.

Walk-in AvailabilityOne-night campsite reservations are possible if booked within 3 days of arrival, either online or through the call center.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is governed by New York OPRHP rules, including restrictions on changes for reservations with departure dates outside the 9-month window.

AccessibilitySome users mentioned flat terrain and paved trails, which may be suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, no official information on ADA compliance or specific facilities for disabled visitors is mentioned.

Site SizeSites are described as large and spacious, though privacy is limited due to the lack of vegetation between the sites.

PrivacyLimited privacy is noted due to the absence of bushes or trees separating campsites.

Recommended SitesCampers are advised to bring their own fire pits, as there are none provided on-site.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Heckscher State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, hiking, fishing, and access to water sports. The park is known for its scenic views of the Great South Bay and Fire Island.

HikingThe park includes four miles of paved, multi-use trails that attract walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The Long Island Greenbelt Trail also passes through the park.

FishingFishing is permitted, although specific details such as fish species or quality of fishing are not provided.

SwimmingSwimming is available in the bay, but safety depends on seasonal water quality and lifeguard availability. Swimming closures may occur without prior notice.

BikingBiking is a popular activity, with paved trails available for cyclists. The terrain is described as generally flat and accessible.

BoatingBoating activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailboarding are supported, with a dedicated beach for kayaks.

Wildlife viewingVisitors may see whitetail deer and a variety of bird species, along with scenic views of Fire Island and the Great South Bay.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTicks and raccoons are mentioned in user reviews as potential concerns. Bug spray and proper clothing are recommended.

Active AlertsNo active alerts reported.

Fire PolicyCampfires are not allowed; logs can be burned in grills for cooking.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No quiet hours mentioned in regulations.

Emergency ServicesRanger station contact: 631-581-2100. Specific information on hospitals or police stations unavailable.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is available, with ashes from fire rings designated for red drums near dumpsters. No recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe park is located along the Great South Bay, offering opportunities for bay swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.

Camp HostA helpful man at registration is mentioned in reviews, though specific host details are unavailable.

Weather at Heckscher State Park

Reviews

4.5

73 reviews

Top-Rated

Heckscher State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, with praise for the park's well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, and variety of recreational activities. Some criticism is directed at the lack of fire pits, inconsistent cleanliness of restrooms, and limited privacy between campsites.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciated the large campsites, clean and heated restrooms, and the range of activities, including biking and kayaking. The inclusion of amenities such as picnic tables and grills at each...

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints included the absence of fire rings at campsites, limited privacy due to open layouts, and cleanliness issues in some restrooms and shower facilities. Some users also mentioned...

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing a personal fire pit if desired, as there are no fire rings. Using bug spray and long clothing to prevent tick bites is advised. Some reviewers suggested visiting Pat's...

Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is a popular season due to the availability of swimming and water-based activities, but some users noted issues with insects and ticks. Fall may require additional preparation, like bringing a...

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice campground, close to NYC and Fire Island. The office is open till 11 pm, there is an ice machine as well, and even the ice cream truck comes near sites." - Nutza H. "Facilities are...

Based on 73 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #55 is noted for being near clean bathrooms and water spigots. However, users mentioned insects and ticks as a drawback.

Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

The flat terrain and paved trails are appreciated, but no specific reviews address accessibility for disabled individuals.

Based on 73 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park's no-pets policy is noted, though some users observed well-behaved dogs on-site without incident.

Based on 73 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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