RV campgrounds near Alexandria Bay, New York sit along the St. Lawrence River and provide access to the scenic Thousand Islands region. Waterfront camping positions visitors to watch international cargo ships navigate the seaway, with vessels visible day and night from many campsites. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F with cool evenings that can drop into the 50s.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Eel Weir State Park Campground, the Oswegatchie River provides excellent fishing opportunities without needing a boat. "There's little undergrowth between sites for privacy but spacious sites makes up for it. We found a site on the edge for good privacy," reports Daniel L., who enjoyed the river views.
Paddling the St. Lawrence: Burnham Point State Park Campground offers direct water access for kayakers and paddleboarders. "Paddling the St. Lawrence River was a highlight and it was also super convenient to be able to get work done via my hotspot right from our site (I have AT&T)," notes Tucker B.
Experience local maritime history: Visit nearby Boldt Castle accessible from Wellesley Island State Park Campground. "NYS may get tons of flack for its politics and politicians. However they're doing it all correct in their state parks. This park is amazing. The views of the ST. LAWRENCE River are amazing. You're around some of the best fishing in the country," according to John L.
What campers like
Watching ship traffic: From the riverfront sites at many RV campgrounds in Alexandria Bay, visitors can spot large cargo vessels. At Swan Bay Resort, one camper noted, "Oh, and the best part was our view of the St. Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds."
Proximity to supplies: Several Alexandria Bay camping areas offer convenient access to necessities. At Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA, campers appreciate the combination of wooded privacy and access to amenities. "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites. The campground is clean and well kept," reports Liz M.
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds provide opportunities to spot native birds and animals. At Eel Weir State Park, one camper mentioned the "family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night" as their favorite feature of staying there.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds affect the St. Lawrence River corridor and can impact camping equipment. At Swan Bay Resort, a seasonal camper shared their experience dealing with "three awnings lost to the wind" during their stay.
Seasonal closures: Most RV parks around Alexandria Bay close by late October. Fort Drum Recreation Area operates from "1st May to 31st October" according to their seasonal schedule.
Campsite privacy varies: Site selection impacts your experience at Thousand Islands campgrounds. At Jacques Cartier State Park Campground, a reviewer notes, "Half of the loop is in the woods and the other half has spacious, grassy sites bordered with woods behind them. Some sites were hilly and we would not have been able to get our trailer in, so its worth calling before you book."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jacques Cartier State Park Campground offers family-friendly features near the camping area. "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it. They pick up your trash everyday, just leave by the road. And on Saturdays a ice cream truck rolls through after dinner!" shares Alycia M.
Swimming options: Several RV campgrounds around Alexandria Bay feature designated swimming areas. At Burnham Point State Park, John B. appreciates the "Beautiful view of the river" and "Easy access to swim in the water," noting the "Very clean bathrooms" that make family stays more comfortable.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies across the Thousand Islands region. At Wellesley Island State Park, Emily S. advises, "I'm used to them being a little more secluded and shaded than the one we stayed at. If you're tent camping and booking through reserve america, I HIGHLY recommend perusing the site map for some time to find a site close to the water and farther from the RV ring."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Many Alexandria Bay RV campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles, but site selection matters. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, one RVer notes, "Our site(#G07) was on the sunset-side of the island and the last of the row beside a walking trail. It was wooded, roomy, and has full hookups, a fire ring, and picnic table. I could probably have fit another RV in the site and still had space to stretch."
Utilities and hookups: Electricity needs vary across campgrounds in the region. At Bedford Creek Marina & Campground, David G. mentions their ongoing improvements, stating "Wonderful staff wonderful setting just always have a wonderful time there. I love everyone riding around on golf carts."
Weather preparation: RVers should prepare for variable conditions. At Burnham Point, Ben B. warns about potential "EXTREMELY VERY WINDY AND COLD" conditions depending on the day, despite the "beautiful" views, noting that "lake front campsites are all on a slope- minimum flat space."
