Camping at West Area (Saturday)

Getting There

Hither Hills State Park is located in the town of Montauk, New York, which is at the Eastern end of Long Island. When planning to camp in the West Area on a Saturday, you should note that weekends during the camping season are popular and can be crowded.

Reservations

Reservations are a must, especially for weekend camping. New York State uses the ReserveAmerica system for campground reservations. You should book your site well in advance, as spots fill up quickly. Ensure that you reserve a site in the specific West Area if that is your preference.

Check-In and Check-Out Times

Check-in typically begins in the afternoon (check with the park for exact times, as they can vary), while check-out is usually by 11:00 AM. Keep in mind that arriving early may not guarantee your site will be ready if the previous campers have not yet vacated.

Campsite Details

Campsites in the West Area likely provide typical state park amenities, which include but are not limited to:

• Fire rings
• Picnic tables
• Flat areas for tents

Make sure that your tent and camping gear fit within the size constraints of your specific site. Also, verify if the site has electrical hookups if needed.

Facilities and Amenities

Facilities within the park typically include restrooms with showers, a camp store, and sometimes a dump station for RVs. Given that this is a coastal park, there may be access to beach areas, but specific activities available can change, so check ahead with the park.

Rules and Regulations

Fires should only be made in designated fire pits or rings, and you must adhere to any active fire bans. Quite often, bringing outside firewood is prohibited to prevent the spread of invasive species—check the park’s regulations.

Pets may or may not be allowed, so you should verify pet policies before bringing a furry friend along.

Quiet hours are commonly enforced to ensure that all campers have an enjoyable experience. This is especially important on busy weekends. Be prepared to keep noise to a minimum during these times.

Alcohol policies can vary, with many state parks banning alcohol or restricting its use to specific areas.

Trash should be disposed of properly, and many parks advocate for a "carry in, carry out" principle, meaning anything you bring should leave with you, minimizing waste left behind.

Activities and Attractions

Recreational opportunities can include fishing, biking, hiking, and bird watching. The beach area provides additional activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Special events might take place in the park on Saturdays, including ranger-led programs, nature walks, or educational activities, depending on the season and park scheduling.

Emergency Information

Emergency Contacts: Always have the local emergency services and park ranger station numbers handy in case of an emergency.

Hospital and Medical Services: Be aware of the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility. It's also a good idea to travel with a well-equipped first aid kit.

Weather and Clothing

Weather on Long Island can be variable, so check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Bring layers for cooler evenings, rain gear for unexpected showers, and suitable clothing for daytime outdoor activities.

Additional Tips

• Water: Make sure there are water access points near your campsite, and if not, plan to bring enough water for the duration of your stay.
• Local Attractions: Montauk has many attractions such as the Montauk Point Lighthouse, local restaurants, and maritime activities.
• Wildlife: Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife, and be aware of any wildlife advisories in the park.

To get the most updated and specific information about camping in the West Area of Hither Hills State Park, always check with the New York State Parks website or contact the park directly.