Hither Hills State Park Campground

Hello, fellow New Yorkers! Are you dreaming of a coastal escape where the sound of the Atlantic Ocean lulls you to sleep and the sunrise over the water greets you each morning? Look no further than Hither Hills State Park Campground in Montauk, a truly iconic destination on the eastern end of Long Island. This highly popular New York State Park offers a unique opportunity for oceanfront camping, providing a refreshing retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the expansive sandy beaches, and experience the unparalleled beauty of the Hamptons at its most accessible.

Hither Hills State Park Campground is renowned for its prime location directly on the ocean, offering 189 campsites that cater to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. While it’s a vibrant and active campground, especially during peak season, its main draw remains the incredible access to Montauk's pristine coastline. It's a coveted spot, often requiring reservations to be made far in advance, a testament to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a beach vacation, or simply seeking to unwind by the sea, Hither Hills provides a quintessential Long Island camping experience. Even with the lively atmosphere, many find the overall experience of waking up by the ocean to be incredibly rewarding.

Hither Hills State Park Campground is ideally situated at Hither Hills State Park Campsite, 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA. This address places it directly on the easternmost tip of Long Island, providing campers with unparalleled access to the Atlantic Ocean. For New Yorkers, reaching Hither Hills is a scenic journey that culminates in a truly coastal experience. From New York City, the drive typically takes a few hours, leading you through charming towns and picturesque landscapes of Long Island's East End. While primarily accessed by car, Montauk itself is served by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), offering an alternative for those who prefer not to drive the entire way, with local transportation options potentially available from the Montauk station to the park. The park's location also puts it within easy reach of other Montauk attractions, including the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse, Montauk Point State Park, and the unique "walking dunes" of Napeague Harbor, making it an excellent base for exploring the diverse natural beauty of the region.

• Campsites: The campground offers 189 sites suitable for tents, travel trailers, and RVs (note: motor homes, pop-ups, and trailers are not allowed in the parking lot Friday, Saturday & Sunday; specific restrictions may apply to certain loops regarding RVs). Each site typically includes a picnic table and a tent platform.

• Restrooms and Showers: Four comfort/shower stations are centrally located throughout the park, including updated facilities in areas like the G loop and J section, providing clean and convenient amenities for campers.

• Direct Beach Access: Campers enjoy direct access to a two-mile sandy ocean beach, perfect for swimming (with lifeguards during season), sunbathing, and beachfront relaxation.

• Fishing: Anglers can enjoy sport fishing year-round, with permits available for night fishing and beach vehicles. Saltwater (ocean surf casting) and freshwater (at a 40-acre lake within the park) fishing opportunities are present.

• Playground: A playground is available for children, offering a dedicated space for fun and recreation.

• Playing Fields: The park features playing fields for various sports, along with courts for horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, and tetherball.

• Camp Store: A camp store and park office are on-site, providing essential supplies and assistance to campers.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs.

• Recreation Programs: During the summer season, the park offers an organized recreation program including family movies, folk and line dancing, children’s summer theater, magic shows, and various environmental interpretation programs.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: Bridle paths and trails are available for hiking, nature walks, and biking, allowing exploration of the diverse woodlands and unique landscapes.

• Picnic Areas: Scenic picnic areas with fireplaces are available for day use, offering a perfect spot for outdoor meals.

• Unbeatable Oceanfront Location: The absolute highlight of Hither Hills State Park Campground is its direct oceanfront position. Many campsites offer views or are just a short walk from the sandy beach, providing a truly immersive coastal camping experience that is rare to find in New York State. The sound of the surf is a constant companion.

• Abundant Recreational Activities: Beyond just camping, the park offers a vast array of activities. From swimming and sunbathing on the expansive beach to surf fishing, exploring the "walking dunes," hiking through woodlands, and utilizing playing fields, there's always something to do for all ages and interests. The organized summer recreation programs further enhance the family-friendly appeal.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: For fishing enthusiasts, Hither Hills is a dream. The ability to fish year-round, including night fishing with proper permits, makes it a premier destination for anglers seeking striped bass, bluefish, and other species that frequent the Long Island waters.

• Diverse Natural Landscape: The park showcases a unique blend of coastal dunes, sandy beaches, and woodlands filled with various trees like Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine. This diverse ecosystem provides not only beautiful scenery but also opportunities for nature observation and photography.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground, playing fields, structured recreation programs, and the inherent appeal of a beach setting, Hither Hills is an ideal destination for families. While some reviews mention noise concerns in certain areas, the overall atmosphere is geared towards family enjoyment and outdoor fun.

• Strategic Base for Exploring Montauk: Its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the wider Montauk area, including the historic lighthouse, other state parks like Montauk Point and Camp Hero, and the quaint town of Montauk with its shops and restaurants.

• Pet Policy (Important Note): It's crucial to highlight that pets are generally NOT permitted in Hither Hills State Park Campground itself. This is a common rule in New York State Parks to protect wildlife and maintain cleanliness, but it is a significant feature that distinguishes it from other campgrounds that may be pet-friendly.

To secure your highly sought-after spot at Hither Hills State Park Campground or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

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

Phone: (631) 668-2554 (This is the main park office number for general inquiries and permits, as listed by NY State Parks)

For camping reservations, it is essential to use the New York State Parks reservation system, typically ReserveAmerica, as sites are booked far in advance, especially for peak season (often 9 months out).

For New Yorkers, Hither Hills State Park Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience oceanfront camping right in our own state. Its location at the very tip of Long Island provides a true escape from urban life, allowing residents to easily access the stunning beaches and natural beauty of Montauk. While popular and sometimes bustling, the sheer experience of waking up to the sound of the Atlantic and having direct access to swimming, fishing, and miles of sandy shoreline is a draw that few other campgrounds can match.

It's an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable beach vacation, for anglers looking for prime fishing spots, or simply for anyone yearning to recharge amidst breathtaking coastal scenery. The array of activities, from hiking and biking to organized summer programs, ensures there's always something to keep everyone engaged. Despite some minor concerns about quiet hours occasionally, the overall consensus is that the beauty and amenities of Hither Hills make it a highly desirable and rewarding camping destination. For a true taste of a New York summer, an ocean breeze, and endless outdoor adventures, Hither Hills State Park Campground remains a top choice for locals, offering an iconic Long Island experience that keeps campers returning year after year.