Best Campgrounds near Altmar, NY
The Altmar area of upstate New York sits at the gateway to diverse camping experiences, with proximity to Lake Ontario and the Salmon River creating a water-focused outdoor destination. State parks and private campgrounds dominate the landscape, with Selkirk Shores State Park Campground offering lakefront sites approximately 15 miles northwest of Altmar. Nearby options include Stoneys Pineville Campground along the Salmon River and Streamside RV Park & Golf Course, both providing electric hookups and varying levels of amenities. The region supports tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations, with most facilities concentrated along the Lake Ontario shoreline and river corridors.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with weather conditions limiting winter camping options. Reservations become essential during summer weekends and salmon fishing season when anglers flock to the region. As one visitor to Hall Island State Forest noted, "There were fire rings set up with a view of the water, and for an able-bodied person, just a short walk up the path." Lake Ontario's shoreline can experience significant winds, particularly in early and late season. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and spotty reception in more remote areas. Campground roads are generally well-maintained, though some primitive sites may require higher clearance vehicles.
Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from campers visiting the area. According to one reviewer at Sun Outdoors Association Island, "Great location offering both sunrise and sunsets over the water of Lake Ontario. Loved the access to the water for our dogs to swim and for beautiful views." Many campgrounds feature fishing access, with the Salmon River being particularly popular during spawning runs. Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with state parks typically offering more spacious sites than private facilities. Families appreciate the playgrounds and beaches at locations like Brennan Beach Campground, while those seeking more solitude might prefer the primitive sites at Hall Island State Forest, where campers report "enough space to set up a few tents or kitchen, whatever else you really wanted."
