Summer Escape: Inside a Laid-Back Shelter Island Camp-Style Bedroom
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about summer on Shelter Island, a hidden gem tucked between the North and South Forks of Long Island. Here, where the pace slows and sea breezes carry the scent of pine and salt, summer living feels refreshingly simple. And nowhere is that simplicity better captured than in the design of a laid-back, camp-style bedroom that invites you to unplug, unwind, and sink into seasonal serenity.
This room, nestled in a renovated summer cottage, draws inspiration from classic American summer camps—but reimagines the look with a modern, minimalist twist. The result is a space that feels timeless and welcoming, blending rustic charm with subtle sophistication.
A Room That Breathes Easy
From the moment you step inside, the room feels like a deep breath. Crisp white walls serve as a clean backdrop, allowing natural textures to shine. Exposed beams and knotty pine accents ground the space with earthy warmth, while wide-plank wood floors creak just enough to remind you you’re on vacation.
At the heart of the room sits a simple, low-profile bed dressed in airy linens—think washed cotton or soft flax in creamy neutrals or pale stripes. The layering is intentionally light, ideal for Shelter Island’s cool coastal evenings and warm summer mornings. A vintage camp blanket draped at the foot of the bed adds a touch of nostalgia without overwhelming the calm palette.
Nature-Inspired Touches
The bedroom draws on its surrounding landscape for inspiration. Handmade rattan baskets double as storage and decor, while driftwood-hued furniture adds to the organic tone. A pair of canvas camp stools sits at the window, offering a casual spot for morning coffee or afternoon journaling.
Lighting is soft and understated, with a mix of utilitarian sconces and lantern-style table lamps—echoes of classic camp gear given an upscale touch. Woven shades filter dappled sunlight through the windows, casting a gentle glow across the room that changes with the rhythm of the day.
Designing for Simplicity
The genius of this camp-style bedroom lies in its deliberate restraint. Rather than filling the space with elaborate furniture or bold patterns, the design leans into simplicity and functionality. Every piece serves a purpose, from the wooden hooks lining the wall to the weathered dresser that doubles as a nightstand. It’s the kind of place where nothing feels fussy or overly styled—but everything feels just right.
For homeowners across the U.S. looking to bring this kind of easy summer charm into their own renovation projects, the lesson is clear: embrace natural textures, keep your palette light and airy, and prioritize comfort over perfection. Whether you’re updating a guest room, building out a beach house, or simply craving a quieter corner in your main home, this Shelter Island escape offers the perfect blueprint.
Get the Look at Home
To recreate this look, focus on materials that feel timeless and tactile. Opt for reclaimed wood, linen fabrics, aged brass fixtures, and handmade ceramics. Hunt for vintage camp finds—such as enamelware, wool throws, and weathered trunks—at flea markets or online marketplaces.
Above all, don’t overthink it. The charm of a camp-style bedroom lies in its unpretentiousness. It’s a room made for slow mornings, open windows, and the kind of quiet only found when you leave your phone in another room and listen to the breeze rustle the trees outside.
Conclusion
This Shelter Island bedroom is more than a stylish space—it’s a reminder of what summer is supposed to feel like. A little wild, a little nostalgic, and completely relaxing. If you’re dreaming of a seasonal refresh or a full renovation that channels the quiet magic of camp life, this is your sign: let nature lead, keep things unfussy, and create a retreat where summer lives all year long.