Hither Hills State Park Campground

For New Yorkers seeking an escape that feels worlds away from the city's frantic pace, Hither Hills State Park Campground in Montauk is the ultimate destination. Located on the majestic South Fork of Long Island, this 1,755-acre state park is often considered the flagship of the New York State Park system. The campground offers a rare opportunity to sleep under the stars while listening to the rhythmic crashing of the Atlantic Ocean waves just yards from your tent or RV. It is a place where the landscape shifts from dramatic ocean bluffs to unique "walking dunes," providing a diverse natural playground for local residents and visitors alike.

The atmosphere at Hither Hills is one of respectful tranquility. Unlike more rowdy vacation spots, campers here tend to prioritize peace, quiet, and a deep reconnection with nature. The campground is meticulously organized, stretching from the base of a gentle hill down toward the pristine shoreline. Whether you are arriving for a romantic weekend or a multi-generational family tradition, the welcoming and safe environment makes it a refreshing retreat. With its vast sandy beaches and shaded picnic areas, Hither Hills provides a "private paradise" feel that is increasingly hard to find in the modern world.

Location and accessibility are among the most attractive features for New York travelers. Situated at 170 Old Montauk Highway, the campground is approximately 122 miles from Manhattan. While the drive can take around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic, the transition into the serene coastal environment makes every mile worth it. For those utilizing the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), the Montauk station is just a short drive away, and local taxis or ride-sharing services can easily transport visitors to the park entrance.

Accessibility is a priority at Hither Hills, ensuring that all New Yorkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the South Fork. The park features wheelchair-accessible entrances and dedicated accessible parking lots. Furthermore, the ten-acre picnic area overlooking the ocean is designed to be handicapped-accessible, featuring accessible fireplaces and tables. Paved roads throughout the main areas of the campground facilitate easier movement for strollers and wheelchairs, though some areas near the dunes remain in their natural, sandy state to preserve the local ecology.

The services offered at Hither Hills State Park are designed to provide a comfortable and functional camping experience without overshadowing the beauty of the outdoors. As a state-run facility, it maintains a high standard of cleanliness and professional oversight. Guests can expect the following services during their stay:

• A well-stocked camp store and concession stand providing hot food, ice, firewood, and essential supplies for campers.
• Four modern comfort stations equipped with spacious, well-maintained restrooms and hot shower stalls.
• A centralized sanitary dump station for RV and trailer maintenance.
• Professional on-site security patrolled by the New York State Park Police to ensure a safe environment for all families.
• Organized summer recreation programs including family movies, folk dancing, children's theater, and environmental interpretation sessions.
• A large recycling program and waste management services to keep the beach and woodlands pristine.
• First aid stations staffed during peak hours to assist with minor injuries or medical needs.

The features and highlights of Hither Hills are what truly set it apart from other campgrounds in the Northeast. From the unique geography to the recreational facilities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Notable highlights include:

• Direct access to a two-mile stretch of clean, white sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for swimming and surf casting.
• A 190-site campground accommodating both tents and RVs, with many sites offering stunning views of the water.
• The legendary "Walking Dunes" of Napeague Harbor, located on the western boundary, which move up to 3.5 feet per year due to coastal winds.
• Diverse hiking and biking trails that wind through woodlands filled with Russian olive, oak, shad, and pine trees.
• A 40-acre freshwater lake and playing fields for horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, and tetherball.
• A family-friendly playground featuring modern swings and slides for younger children.
• A picturesque barbecue zone on the hill with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, ideal for evening grilling.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join the family adventure (though they are not permitted in buildings or the swimming area).

To ensure you secure a spot at this highly sought-after location, it is essential to plan ahead and have the correct contact information. Reservations are strictly managed and often sell out months in advance for the peak summer season.

• Physical Address: 170 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA
• Park Office Phone: (631) 668-3781
• Reservation Hotline: (800) 456-CAMP (or via ReserveAmerica)
• Operating Season: The campground typically operates from mid-April through late October.

What is worth choosing about Hither Hills is the unparalleled combination of oceanfront access and high-quality maintenance. For many New Yorkers, this is the gold standard of camping. The ability to wake up to the sound of the surf and spend the day on a beach that feels like a private club is an experience that justifies the planning and the drive. The "Flagship" status of the park means that the facilities, particularly the restrooms and showers, are often cleaner and more modern than those found in smaller, more remote parks.

Furthermore, the variety of the terrain makes it a fantastic choice for active groups. You can spend your morning hiking the shifting sands of the Walking Dunes and your afternoon saltwater fishing for striped bass or bluefish. The sense of community among the campers—characterized by polite, quiet neighbors and shared respect for the environment—creates an atmosphere where kids can be kids and adults can find true mental clarity. Whether you are a solo traveler looking for a peaceful spot to read or a family building lifelong memories, Hither Hills State Park Campground provides the perfect backdrop for an authentic Long Island summer.