Campground D9 Introduce

For New Yorkers looking to trade the skyscraper views for a canopy of hardwood trees and the salty breeze of the Long Island Sound, Campground D9 in Wading River offers a classic outdoor experience. Situated in a region known for its high bluffs and lush coastal forests, this campground serves as a vital retreat for local families and solo adventurers alike. As part of the greater Wading River camping community, it provides an accessible gateway to the North Shore's unique geography. Here, the typical weekend involves waking up to the sound of local wildlife and spending afternoons exploring the rugged shoreline that has made this part of Suffolk County a destination for generations of campers.

Campground D9 is particularly appreciated by those who call Long Island home, offering a "staycation" that feels worlds away from the suburbs. The atmosphere is one of rustic simplicity, designed for those who find joy in the basics of outdoor living. While it provides the essential comforts needed for a multi-day stay, it retains an authentic woodland character that encourages guests to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with the natural landscape. Whether you are arriving with a traditional tent or a small camping rig, the site serves as a home base for enjoying the simple pleasures of a New York summer, from stargazing to beachcombing along the Sound.

Location and accessibility are two of the primary reasons Campground D9 is a top choice for local residents. Nestled in the picturesque town of Wading River, NY 11792, the site is conveniently positioned near the entrance to Long Island’s famed North Fork wine country. For those traveling from New York City or Western Long Island, the drive is straightforward, primarily utilizing the Long Island Expressway or Northern State Parkway before transitioning to the scenic, tree-lined roads of the North Shore. This proximity makes it feasible for a quick weekend getaway without the long travel times often associated with upstate camping.

The site itself is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure that the beauty of the Wading River woods is open to everyone. On-site parking is available, which is a major convenience for families hauling coolers, camping gear, and sports equipment. The campground’s layout is organized to allow for easy navigation, though the natural terrain remains a highlight, with winding paths leading toward the high bluffs that overlook the water. Its placement in Wading River means guests are also just minutes away from local farms, orchards, and small-town eateries, providing a perfect blend of wilderness and local convenience.

  • Standardized camping plots suitable for tent setups and small camping units.
  • On-site parking specifically designated for campers to allow easy access to vehicles.
  • Public restroom facilities located within a short walking distance of the camping area.
  • Restrooms equipped with hot water, a highly valued amenity for those staying multiple nights.
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking areas to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
  • Access to communal waste disposal and recycling stations to keep the grounds pristine.
  • Proximity to park rangers and information centers for local guidance and safety.

The features and highlights of Campground D9 revolve around its spectacular natural setting. One of the biggest draws is its proximity to the water; a short walk from the wooded camping loops brings visitors to the edge of the Sound, where the rocky beaches offer some of the best sunset views in the state. For families, the area is exceptionally "good for kids," providing a safe environment for supervised exploration of the forest and shore. The local geography, characterized by high bluffs and dense hardwood forest, offers a shaded canopy that keeps the area significantly cooler than the open South Shore beaches during the peak of July and August.

  • Stunning views of the Long Island Sound, especially during the "golden hour" at sunset.
  • Access to miles of marked hiking and nature trails that wind through the surrounding hardwood forest.
  • Excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of local deer and coastal birds.
  • A family-friendly environment that encourages outdoor play and communal camping traditions.
  • Proximity to the Wading River beach, ideal for beachcombing, fishing, and saltwater swimming.
  • Located near local "pick-your-own" farms and agricultural stands for fresh New York produce.
  • Close proximity to the Splish Splash water park and Tanger Outlets for additional family entertainment.

If you are planning a trip to Campground D9, it is important to be aware of the local contact details and the specific environment of the site. While the campground offers a peaceful retreat, its location near local airfields means that occasionally, small planes can be heard overhead—a quirk that is part of the local North Shore experience. For inquiries regarding specific site availability, local regulations, or seasonal opening dates, you can reach out through the following contact information.

  • Address: Wading River, NY 11792, USA
  • Type: Campground
  • Amenities: Public Restrooms, On-site Parking

What makes Campground D9 worth choosing is the authentic "North Shore" experience it provides. In a state where luxury often overshadows the landscape, this campsite stands out by letting the environment do the talking. It is worth choosing for the unmatched accessibility to the Long Island Sound and the unique opportunity to camp among the bluffs. For those who appreciate the finer details of nature, the ability to see the stars clearly over the water is a reward that justifies the visit. While it is a popular spot that attracts many fellow New Yorkers, the sense of community found among the campers here creates a welcoming and lively atmosphere.

Furthermore, the convenience factor for Long Islanders cannot be overstated. Being able to pack the car on a Friday afternoon and be sitting by a campfire before sunset is a luxury in itself. The campground provides just the right amount of infrastructure—clean restrooms and hot water—to make the experience comfortable for families without stripping away the feeling of being in the wild. If you are looking for a place where your children can run through the woods, where you can breathe in the salt air, and where the most important thing on your schedule is watching the sun dip below the Connecticut horizon, Campground D9 is a fitting choice for your next New York adventure. Would you like me to help you create a packing list specifically for the rocky beaches of the North Shore?

Location

Customer Reviews

3.0
11 reviews
D
Daniil Sboev
Sep 08, 2021

Restrooms OK, with hot water. Late evening - every 15 mins small plan run around,it's more noisy then track. No fireplace at tent spots.

w
wyoprospector
Jun 08, 2025

$60 to look at the stars? Only in NY.

H
Hbird
Jul 21, 2024

This campground is garbage. No one follows quiet hours and it is unable to complain about this.

j
j s
Aug 19, 2025

O
Oscar Moran
Jan 17, 2025