Hither Hills Campground

For New Yorkers, the idea of a "campground" often conjures images of rustic retreats far from the city's hustle, a place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Hither Hills Campground, nestled on the stunning coastline of Montauk, NY, is precisely that and more. It offers a unique opportunity for locals to experience the raw beauty of Long Island's easternmost tip, combining the serenity of a natural setting with direct access to the invigorating Atlantic Ocean. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a destination for creating lasting memories, breathing in fresh sea air, and unwinding from the urban grind.

Hither Hills Campground stands out as a prime choice for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience without venturing too far from the comforts of home (or at least, the reach of a scenic drive). It’s a true beachfront campground, offering a rare chance to wake up to the sound of crashing waves and have the vast expanse of the ocean just steps from your campsite. For decades, it has been a beloved tradition for many families and groups of friends, drawn by its unparalleled location and the promise of a refreshing coastal getaway. Reviews consistently highlight its beautiful views and the dedication of staff to maintain a clean and welcoming environment.

Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to try it for the first time, Hither Hills provides an accessible and unforgettable introduction to the joys of outdoor living by the sea. It embodies the adventurous spirit of Long Island and offers a distinct New York experience that many locals cherish. It’s a place where the stars shine brighter, the air feels cleaner, and the ocean's rhythm invites a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere.

Hither Hills Campground boasts an enviable location at 164 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA. This address places it directly on the oceanfront in Montauk, the charming and rugged "End of the World" on Long Island's South Fork. This position is a major draw, offering campers direct access to the Atlantic Ocean.

For New Yorkers, reaching Montauk generally involves a scenic drive. From New York City, it's approximately a 2.5 to 3.5-hour drive, depending on traffic, primarily via the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to the East End. Once on the South Fork, Route 27 (Montauk Highway) will lead you directly to the campground. While the drive can be lengthy during peak summer weekends, the stunning coastal scenery along the way is part of the experience.

Public transportation to Montauk is also available, albeit with a bit more planning. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides service to Montauk station, which is several miles from the campground. From the Montauk LIRR station, campers would need to arrange for a taxi or ride-share service to reach Hither Hills Campground. Additionally, Hampton Jitney and Hampton Ambassador bus services offer comfortable rides from various points in NYC directly to Montauk. While these services drop off in Montauk town, a short taxi ride would still be required to get to the campground itself.

Within Montauk, the campground's location on Old Montauk Highway means it's slightly removed from the immediate bustle of Montauk town, offering a more tranquil setting. However, the town's restaurants, shops, and attractions are just a short drive away, providing convenience for supplies or an evening out. The combination of a breathtaking oceanfront setting and manageable travel options makes Hither Hills an accessible and desirable escape for New Yorkers looking for a genuine coastal camping adventure.

Hither Hills Campground, operated by New York State Parks, provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to make the camping experience comfortable and enjoyable for its visitors.

• Campsites: The campground offers various types of campsites, primarily for tents and RVs. Each site generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring/grill. Some sites are "tent-only," often boasting more secluded or scenic locations. It's important to note that while RV sites are available, visitors, as noted in reviews, should be aware that electric service may be limited or require upgrades, and planning for alternative power solutions might be necessary.

• Restrooms and Showers: A consistent highlight in customer reviews is the cleanliness of the facilities. The campground provides well-maintained restrooms and hot showers, which are crucial amenities for a comfortable camping stay.

• Direct Beach Access: One of the most significant services is direct access to the ocean beach. This includes a blue mat path laid down to the beach, which greatly enhances accessibility for all visitors, making it easier to transport gear or for individuals with mobility challenges to reach the sand.

• Campground Store/Concessions: While not explicitly detailed, many state campgrounds typically have a small store or concession stand where campers can purchase basic supplies, firewood, ice, and perhaps some snacks or camping essentials.

• Dump Station: For RV campers, a dump station is usually available for wastewater disposal, a standard and necessary service for self-contained units.

• Recreational Activities (on-site): The campground area often supports activities such as fishing (with appropriate licenses), hiking on nearby trails (within Hither Hills State Park), and simply enjoying the beach for swimming or sunbathing.

• Staff Assistance: Campground staff are available for check-in, providing information, and assisting with any issues or emergencies that may arise during your stay. Reviews praise the staff's efforts in maintaining cleanliness.

Hither Hills Campground distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that consistently draw New Yorkers seeking an exceptional outdoor experience, particularly its stunning coastal attributes.

• Oceanfront Location and Panoramic Views: The absolute pinnacle of Hither Hills is its direct oceanfront setting. Campers have unparalleled access to the Atlantic Ocean, often hearing the waves from their campsites. Many sites, especially the "tent-only" ones, boast breathtaking views of the ocean, offering spectacular sunrises and a truly immersive coastal experience. This direct beach access is a rare and highly sought-after feature for any campground in the tri-state area.

• Direct Beach Access with Accessibility Mat: A significant highlight, particularly noted in recent reviews, is the installation of a blue mat path down to the beach. This thoughtful addition dramatically improves beach accessibility for everyone, including families with wagons, individuals with mobility challenges, or anyone carrying gear, making the pristine shoreline more easily enjoyable.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Customer reviews consistently praise the campground staff for doing "a great job at keeping the bathrooms & other facilities clean." This dedication to cleanliness is a crucial factor for a comfortable camping experience and speaks volumes about the management's commitment to visitor satisfaction.

• Variety of Campsite Options: Hither Hills offers a mix of tent-only and RV-friendly sites. The "tent-only" sites are often highlighted for their beautiful, more secluded views, appealing to those seeking a classic, rugged camping feel. While RV sites are available, the expectation of limited electric service encourages a more traditional, off-grid camping experience.

• Proximity to Montauk Attractions: While offering a serene escape, the campground is just a short drive from Montauk town, which provides easy access to local restaurants, shops, the iconic Montauk Lighthouse, and various fishing charters and recreational opportunities. This balance of secluded nature and nearby amenities is highly convenient for campers.

• Natural Setting within Hither Hills State Park: The campground is part of the larger Hither Hills State Park, which offers additional recreational opportunities such as hiking trails, fishing, and opportunities to explore diverse coastal habitats, including dunes and maritime forests.

As a public campground operated by New York State Parks, Hither Hills Campground typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private business might. Pricing for campsites is generally set by the state and remains consistent. However, there are various ways New Yorkers can leverage the offerings of the state park system and local initiatives to enhance their camping experience or find value.

• New York State Parks' Empire Pass: While not exclusive to Hither Hills, purchasing an Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks, including Hither Hills State Park (which the campground is part of). If you plan multiple visits to state parks throughout the year, this can result in significant savings on entry fees, offering a form of "promotional value."

• Seasonal Booking Advantages: The most significant "offer" at Hither Hills often comes down to securing a reservation, especially for popular oceanfront or tent-only sites. These prime spots are in extremely high demand and book up almost instantly when the reservation window opens (typically months in advance). Successfully booking a coveted spot is a "special offer" in itself, providing access to an unparalleled camping experience.

• Off-Season Camping: While Hither Hills is predominantly a warm-weather campground, if it were to extend its season into early spring or late fall, these periods often see lower rates or less competition for reservations compared to peak summer. This could be considered a "special offer" for those willing to brave cooler temperatures.

• Educational Programs and Ranger-Led Activities: New York State Parks occasionally offer free or low-cost educational programs, nature walks, or ranger-led activities within the state park system. While not guaranteed at Hither Hills every season, checking the NYS Parks website for such programs around Montauk could provide added value to your stay.

• Longer Stay Discounts (if applicable): Some state park systems might offer slight per-night discounts for very extended stays (e.g., a month or more), though this is less common for high-demand campgrounds like Hither Hills. It's always worth checking the official reservation system for any such specific policies.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees, reservations, and any potential state-wide park passes or programs that could offer value, New Yorkers should always refer to the official New York State Parks website for Hither Hills Campground or call the listed phone number.

For New Yorkers planning their coastal camping escape to Hither Hills Campground, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: 164 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA

• Phone: (631) 668-2554

• Mobile Phone: +1 631-668-2554 (This is the same number, just formatted for international dialing; for local calls within the US, the 10-digit number is typically used.)

It is highly recommended to call the campground directly for the most current information regarding reservations, availability, specific site details, and any operational updates. Given its popularity, especially during peak season, early booking is often essential, and direct communication can help clarify any specific questions about your stay or the campground's amenities. For booking, New York State Parks typically uses a centralized online reservation system, which can be accessed via their official website.

For New Yorkers, Hither Hills Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a quintessential Long Island escape that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and essential respite from city life. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its unique attributes and the unparalleled experience it provides within a manageable distance from the metropolitan area.

Firstly, the direct oceanfront location is arguably its most compelling draw. For many New Yorkers, the idea of waking up to the sound of waves and having direct, easy access to a pristine Atlantic beach from their campsite is a dream. This immediate connection to the ocean provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and simply enjoying the vastness of the sea, a luxury not often found in urban parks. The thoughtful addition of the blue mat path to the beach further enhances this experience, making it accessible for everyone.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to maintaining clean facilities, as consistently praised in reviews, is a significant factor for comfortable camping. Knowing that restrooms and showers are well-kept alleviates common camping concerns and allows visitors to truly relax and enjoy their time outdoors. This level of care contributes to a more pleasant and worry-free stay, which is crucial for those seeking a genuine break.

Moreover, Hither Hills offers a genuine connection to nature within the broader Hither Hills State Park, providing hiking trails, scenic views, and a chance to immerse oneself in coastal ecosystems. While providing a rustic outdoor experience, it also balances this with proximity to the charming town of Montauk, allowing campers to easily access local shops, restaurants, and attractions when desired. This blend of secluded nature and convenient amenities makes it ideal for both seasoned campers and those new to the outdoor lifestyle.

In essence, Hither Hills Campground provides New Yorkers with an accessible, breathtaking, and well-supported opportunity to decompress, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories by the sea. It’s a beloved local tradition and a true gem on Long Island's eastern tip, perfectly suited for anyone seeking a refreshing coastal escape from the concrete jungle.

Hither Hills Campground

164 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, USA