Hither Hills State Park is a scenic campground located on the southeastern coast of Long Island. This 1,755-acre park offers a captivating beach camping experience near the idyllic Montauk beach and the neighboring vibrant towns of East Hampton and Southampton.
Its proximity guarantees perfect nightlife and front-row seats to breathtaking sunsets on the East Coast.
While there, I really loved the tranquility of the winding nature trails and captivating landscapes. However, what really amazed me was the impressive selection of over 176 spacious RV and conventional tent sites to call your own.
This article will go into detail about everything you need to know before you go camping at Hither Hills.
Things To Know About Hither Hills State Park
Before you embark on your camping adventure, here are a few things you should know:
How to get there
To get to Hither Hills State Park, you can take a delightful drive through The Hamptons, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
It typically takes around two hours to reach the park from NYC by car. Alternatively, you can opt for a ferry journey from Connecticut or Rhode Island if you prefer a more scenic route.
Read next – Best Time to Visit the Hamptons
Best time to make a reservation
When planning your trip to Hither Hills State Park, check the opening and closing dates of the campground. Hither Hills is closed during the winter months, so it typically opens for the season in late April and closes in early November.
Suppose you are looking to experience the peak season of Hither Hills, which is known for its ideal weather conditions and bustling atmosphere. In that case, visiting between mid-June and early September is recommended.
How to book
To secure a camp spot, you must plan and book it nine months before your desired visit date. The demand for these spots is incredibly high, with all available reservations being quickly snatched up within minutes.
The reservation process takes place exclusively through reserveamerica.com.
Essential camping guidelines
- The nightly rate for a campsite is $35, while a weekly rate is $245.
- A key card is required to enter and exit the campsite area, with a $5 cash deposit refundable upon return.
- A maximum of one car per campsite is allowed, with a second car allowed for an extra fee of $20, which must be parked in designated areas.
- A maximum of 6 people or a single-family unit is allowed at each campsite.
- The campsite can accommodate either one RV and one tent or two tents.
- During Peak Season, guests must make reservations for a minimum of 7 nights, whereas in Non-Peak Season, you can stay for a minimum of 2 nights.
- Open fires are strictly prohibited throughout the high season. However, in the low season, guests can have fires as long as they are contained within a metal container.
- Pets are not permitted within the park.
Campsites in Hither Hills State Park
The 176 campsites at Hither Hills are spread across three different loops:
1. West Loop
West Loop provides a range of accommodation options with 108 campsites that cater to RVs, trailers, and tents. Visitors here can also enjoy easy access to a stunning 40-acre freshwater lake. The facilities available and more about the loop include:
- Communal restroom with hot showers and toilets
- Concrete patio areas
- Centrally located phones
- Campers need to bring their fire pit
- No electrical hookups are available, but generators can be used during daytime hours
- Each site can accommodate up to six people per night
- ADA-accessible sites are available for reservation
- There are modern restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets
- RV dump station
- Day-use area with picnic tables and fire pits
- Park office and a camp store with necessities
2. East Loop
The East Loop is directly opposite the West Loop along the beach, and campers will have easy beach access during their stay. It offers 37 campsites for RVers, trailer campers, and tent campers.
The campsites require booking by an individual who is 21 years or older. The East Loop campsites offer all the amenities available in the West Loop.
Note: ID may be checked during check-in.
3. J Loop
J Loop offers 23 campsites for tent campers seeking a quieter environment.
Key card entry is required for access to J Loop, with a deposit for the card. Each site in J Loop can accommodate one car and up to six people per night.
In J Loop, campers have access to a range of amenities comparable to those offered in the other loops. However, it is important to note that campfires and generators are strictly prohibited in this area, and compliance with these regulations is closely monitored.
Also, it is worth mentioning that J Loop sites are exclusively designed for tent camping only and not for those with pop-up trailers or RVs.
Recreational Activities Available in Hither Hills State Park
This Montauk campground offers more than just beachside bonfires and vibrant nightlife.
- Bridle paths and hiking
- Biking
- Cross-country ski trails
- Basketball court
- Fishing
- Horseshoes
- Volleyball
- Playground
- Bird Watching
- Picnicking
- Recreation Programs
- Recreation trail
- Swimming
Top 5 Hiking Trails in Hither Hills State Park
These trails provide excellent hiking, birding, and running opportunities, with a low chance of encountering a crowd while exploring.
1. Petticoat Hill Trail
A 1.1 km moderate hike with slight inclines. Enjoy panoramic views from the summit of Petticoat Hill. Remember your camera! Expect to complete it after just 17 minutes.
2. Fresh Pond Reservation Loop Trail
This is a 4.8 km leisurely hike that is perfect for families. Explore the peaceful Fresh Pond, ideal for birdwatching and quiet picnics. Keep an eye out for turtles! It will take you around 58 minutes for you to complete.
3. Hither Hills Beach Walk
A scenic 8.9 km coastal stroll along the sandy beach. Get to breathe in the fresh ocean air and admire the scenic views of the Atlantic. Enjoy a refreshing dip if you’re up for it! The estimated time of completing the trial is 1 h 38 min.
4. Hither Hills Trail
A challenging 13.2 km trek for experienced hikers. Navigate through dense forest, rocky terrain, and hills. It will take you an average of 2 h 46 min to complete.
5. Hither Hills Coastal Trail and Old North Road Loop
An adventurous 5.3-km loop combining coastal beauty and historical sites.
Marvel at the coastline and discover remnants of Old North Road, which once served as a major thoroughfare. It will take you an average of 1 h 10 min to complete.
Nearby Attractions to Explore in Hither Hills State Park
Apart from the campsite, there are other attractions near or in Hither Hills State Park, including the following:
1. Camp Hero State Park
Explore the eerie abandoned military base with its underground bunkers and radar towers, offering a rich history and stunning ocean views.
2. Montauk Lighthouse
Climb to the top of the iconic 1796 lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and showcasing maritime history at its best.
3. Shadmoor State Park
Discover a diverse ecosystem featuring bluffs, freshwater wetlands, and forests, along with scenic trails and birdwatching opportunities, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
4. Walking Dunes
Witness the unique geological feature of shifting sand dunes (3.5 inches annually) that seem to “walk” over time, creating a mesmerizing sight and an ideal hiking destination.
5. Montauk Point State Park
Enjoy miles of pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, wetlands, and hiking trails, perfect for swimming, fishing, picnicking, or simply relishing natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an amazing destination to add to your travel bucket list, consider visiting Hither Hills State Park. With a focus on exploring national parks right now, this park is definitely worth a visit.
I loved my time there, especially witnessing the breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. It was truly a memorable experience and one that I highly recommend.
