Hither Hills State Park Campsite

For New Yorkers seeking the quintessential coastal getaway without leaving the state, Hither Hills State Park Campsite in Montauk offers an unparalleled oceanfront camping experience. Nestled on the easternmost tip of Long Island, this beloved state park provides a unique blend of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and maritime forests, making it a prime destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. It’s a cherished escape for locals, a place where the soothing sound of crashing waves becomes your nightly lullaby and stunning sunrises over the Atlantic greet you each morning. Hither Hills is more than just a campground; it’s a treasured slice of New York’s natural splendor, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban landscape.

With a reputation for being one of the most sought-after camping spots in New York, Hither Hills State Park Campsite combines rustic charm with essential amenities, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re looking to spend your days swimming, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the beach, this iconic destination provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories. Its popularity speaks volumes, and securing a spot often requires advance planning, a testament to the exceptional experience it offers to those in the Empire State looking for their next outdoor adventure.

Hither Hills State Park Campsite is ideally situated at 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, right on the South Fork of Long Island. This prime location places it directly on the Atlantic Ocean, offering campers immediate access to miles of pristine beach. For New York City residents, the park is approximately 122 miles from Manhattan, a scenic drive that typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic, especially during peak summer weekends.

Accessibility to Montauk and Hither Hills is primarily via the Long Island Expressway (I-495) eastbound, transitioning to NY-27 East (Sunrise Highway/Montauk Highway). The journey itself offers a gradual transition from suburban sprawl to the charming villages and picturesque landscapes that define Long Island's East End. Once in Montauk, the park is easily found on Old Montauk Highway, a well-known route that hugs the coastline. While driving is the most common mode of transport, Montauk is also served by Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), providing an alternative for those who prefer not to drive, though transport from the Montauk station to the campground would then be required. Given its popularity, particularly in summer, planning travel times to avoid peak traffic is always a wise consideration for New York locals. The relatively easy access from various points across New York State makes Hither Hills an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Hither Hills State Park Campsite provides a range of services designed to make your oceanfront camping experience comfortable and convenient, while maintaining the natural beauty of the park. These services generally include:

• Campsites: The park offers 168 campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring (though portable fire pits are often required, and fires may be restricted to the beach or specific communal areas depending on park regulations and conditions).
• Restroom Facilities: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities are available throughout the campground, featuring flush toilets and showers with hot water, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient dump station is provided for waste disposal.
• Camp Store: A camp store is often on-site or nearby, offering essential camping supplies, snacks, beverages, and firewood.
• Beach Access: Direct and easy access to the two-mile sandy ocean beach for swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing.
• Water Access: Potable water spigots are available throughout the campground, though individual site hookups for water are generally not provided.
• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas with tables and fireplaces are available for day-use visitors and campers.
• Recycling: Facilities for recycling are usually provided, encouraging campers to help maintain the park's environmental integrity.
• Seasonal Lifeguards: During the summer season, lifeguards are typically on duty at the designated swimming areas on the beach.

Hither Hills State Park Campsite boasts an array of distinctive features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in New York:

• Oceanfront Camping: This is arguably its most significant highlight. Many campsites offer views of or are just a short walk over the dunes to the Atlantic Ocean, providing direct access to the beach and the soothing sound of the waves.
• Two Miles of Sandy Beach: The expansive, clean sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, long walks, beachcombing, and surf fishing (with appropriate permits).
• Unique "Walking Dunes" of Napeague Harbor: On the eastern boundary of the park, visitors can explore the fascinating shifting sand hills known as the "walking dunes," a unique geological feature offering distinctive hiking opportunities.
• Diverse Ecosystem: The park features not only coastal environments but also woodlands filled with various trees like Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine, supporting diverse flora and fauna for nature enthusiasts.
• Extensive Trail System: Beyond the beach, the park offers a network of trails suitable for hiking, nature walks, and biking, allowing campers to explore the varied terrain. Bridle paths are also available for horseback riding.
• Sport Fishing: Hither Hills is a renowned spot for sport fishing, with anglers able to fish year-round (night fishing permits are available).
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The park includes playing fields, a playground, and often an organized recreation program during the summer months featuring family movies, live entertainment, and environmental interpretation programs.
• Proximity to Montauk Village: The campground is just a short drive from the charming and vibrant Montauk Village, offering dining options, shops, and additional attractions like the Montauk Point Lighthouse.
• Stargazing: Away from significant urban light pollution, especially on clear nights, the dark skies over Hither Hills provide excellent opportunities for stargazing.

For official information, reservations, and current park conditions for Hither Hills State Park Campsite, visitors should contact the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

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

Phone: (631) 668-2554 (Park Office)

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the New York State Parks reservation system, typically through ReserveAmerica, as campsites, especially during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), are in extremely high demand and often book up nine months in advance. During peak season, a 7-night minimum stay is usually required for campsite bookings, with check-ins primarily on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.

For New York locals, Hither Hills State Park Campsite is not just a campground; it’s an iconic summer tradition and a vital connection to the stunning coastal beauty of Long Island. Its suitability for residents of the Empire State is multifaceted. Firstly, its relatively accessible location on the eastern tip of Long Island makes it a feasible weekend getaway or extended vacation spot, particularly for those in downstate New York. The journey, while a drive, culminates in an immediate immersion into a distinctly different, serene environment, providing a much-needed respite from urban life.

Secondly, the unique offering of oceanfront camping is a tremendous draw. New Yorkers can experience the rare luxury of sleeping within earshot of the Atlantic waves, waking up to breathtaking sunrises, and having direct, unfettered access to a beautiful two-mile beach. This direct connection to the coast provides endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and simply unwinding by the shore, activities that are highly sought after during New York’s warmer months. The presence of lifeguards during the summer ensures a safe beach experience for families.

Moreover, Hither Hills caters to a diverse range of outdoor interests. Beyond the beach, the park’s hiking and biking trails, unique "walking dunes," and rich natural environment offer ample exploration for nature lovers. The family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and organized summer programs, ensure that children of all ages are entertained, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. The proximity to Montauk Village adds another layer of convenience, allowing campers to easily access local shops, restaurants, and attractions without feeling completely isolated.

In essence, Hither Hills State Park Campsite is a cherished gem for New York locals. It offers a perfect blend of natural splendor, recreational opportunities, and convenient access, providing an unforgettable outdoor experience that epitomizes the best of what New York’s diverse landscapes have to offer. It’s a place where generations of New Yorkers have created cherished memories, and a destination that continues to call them back year after year.