Stop the closure of Suffolk County campgrounds
The Issue
It’s deeply personal for me to see that resilient full-time campers in Suffolk County face potential displacement. This battle is not new to some of us, as we've faced similar hardships since the initial scare on October 2, 2024, when the closure of county parks hovered as a real threat. I have worked tirelessly to overturn previous closure attempts, with countless calls and relentless advocacy, reminding authorities of the vital lifeline these campgrounds provide to many who have no other place to call home.
The Suffolk County Parks Department is now proceeding, with little regard for transparency or public engagement, with plans to shutter all county campgrounds from November 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. This decision will displace over 100 full-time park residents, throwing them into uncertainty and hardship during the cold off-season months. The lack of foresight in providing alternative solutions is troubling, and it is crucial we act now to compel the officials to reconsider.
These campgrounds serve as affordable housing solutions for many, particularly those experiencing economic hardships. In a county that promotes community and inclusion, closing these spaces contradicts these values and overlooks significant social implications. Statistics from similar campground closures indicate increased homelessness and the associated public health crises. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, affordable housing shortages lead to severe consequences, further illustrating the importance of keeping these camp communities operational.
We propose that Suffolk County Parks work collaboratively with local housing advocates and community organizations to develop a sustainable plan that allows for year-round camping. This could include phased site closures for necessary maintenance, while ensuring some sites remain open or facilitating alternate temporary housing for displaced residents.
Join us in urging the Suffolk County Parks Department to maintain the campgrounds open during the off-season, providing a safe, stable, and supportive community for those who rely on it. Your support can prevent displacement and preserve the rights and dignity of those who call these parks home.
Please sign this petition and help protect our community from unnecessary and harmful closures.
538
The Issue
It’s deeply personal for me to see that resilient full-time campers in Suffolk County face potential displacement. This battle is not new to some of us, as we've faced similar hardships since the initial scare on October 2, 2024, when the closure of county parks hovered as a real threat. I have worked tirelessly to overturn previous closure attempts, with countless calls and relentless advocacy, reminding authorities of the vital lifeline these campgrounds provide to many who have no other place to call home.
The Suffolk County Parks Department is now proceeding, with little regard for transparency or public engagement, with plans to shutter all county campgrounds from November 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. This decision will displace over 100 full-time park residents, throwing them into uncertainty and hardship during the cold off-season months. The lack of foresight in providing alternative solutions is troubling, and it is crucial we act now to compel the officials to reconsider.
These campgrounds serve as affordable housing solutions for many, particularly those experiencing economic hardships. In a county that promotes community and inclusion, closing these spaces contradicts these values and overlooks significant social implications. Statistics from similar campground closures indicate increased homelessness and the associated public health crises. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, affordable housing shortages lead to severe consequences, further illustrating the importance of keeping these camp communities operational.
We propose that Suffolk County Parks work collaboratively with local housing advocates and community organizations to develop a sustainable plan that allows for year-round camping. This could include phased site closures for necessary maintenance, while ensuring some sites remain open or facilitating alternate temporary housing for displaced residents.
Join us in urging the Suffolk County Parks Department to maintain the campgrounds open during the off-season, providing a safe, stable, and supportive community for those who rely on it. Your support can prevent displacement and preserve the rights and dignity of those who call these parks home.
Please sign this petition and help protect our community from unnecessary and harmful closures.
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Petition created on August 18, 2026