RV campgrounds near Altmar, New York typically operate from late April through mid-October when salmon fishing attracts many visitors to the region. Located in Oswego County along the Salmon River, Altmar sits within the western foothills of the Tug Hill Plateau, with elevations around 400 feet above sea level. Winter snowfall averages over 200 inches annually in this lake effect snow belt, which explains the limited camping season.
What to do
Fishing adventures: Most campers at Brennan Beach Campground come for the excellent fishing opportunities. "We went late summer so it was becoming offseason. Most amenities close down. Pool, swimming at Lake Ontario beach, etc. One staff member Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a 'must see' while there," noted Robert M.
Golfing options: Streamside RV Park & Golf Course combines camping with a 12-hole course. "There is a 12 hole golf course that surrounds the campground," reports B M., adding that "There is a bar that serves food called Divots. They had prime rib on the menu yet Sundays they close early."
Hiking trails: Several parks near camping areas offer walking paths with forest and water views. A visitor to The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone mentioned, "For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the street."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Lake Ontario shoreline camping provides direct water access. One visitor to Sun Outdoors Association Island explained, "Surrounded by Lake Ontario, it's a secluded and idyllic setting for a RV campground. Our site(#G07) was on the sunset-side of the island and the last of the row beside a walking trail."
Well-maintained facilities: Many RV parks near Altmar prioritize cleanliness and upkeep. A camper at Butternut Hill RV Campground shared: "Had a great stay, loved the good WiFi, showers, laundry, and bathrooms!"
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments despite being fully booked. A Treasure Isle RV Park camper wrote, "Treasure Isle is nice and quiet. The sites are a good size with water and electric on each site. There is a dumping station to use, some sewer sites."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most RV campgrounds near Altmar close by mid-October. "We went late summer so it was becoming offseason. Most amenities close down," noted a Brennan Beach camper.
Site types vary: Each campground offers different site configurations. At Ontario Shores RV Park, a visitor observed: "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites are level and spacious. Open field to walk the dog or for children."
Demographic differences: Some campgrounds attract specific age groups. According to Paula G. at Streamside RV Park & Golf Course: "This is a privately owned very nice campground! The owners take pride in their business and the grounds are meticulously kept. Everyone here is a golfer and there are no children."
Weather impacts: The Lake Ontario region experiences significant wind and insects. A Sun Outdoors Association Island visitor warned: "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Some RV campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Treasure Isle RV Park, a camper noted, "There is a nice bathhouse, playground, basketball court, Beach and walking trails."
Select campgrounds with family programming: Certain parks organize activities for younger guests. A visitor to The Villages RV Park mentioned, "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins" and another added that there's "lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean."
Consider tent camping options: Not all families require RV accommodations. Fort Drum Recreation Area offers alternatives as one visitor explained: "They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds affects experience. An RVer at Sun Outdoors Association Island advised: "I definitely recommend the sunrise side. The sunset is of course beautiful but sunrise sites are much bigger and can lead right to the water which is much nicer. It's a lot less windy and easier to be in the water."
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of electrical service. At Brennan Beach Campground, a camper reported: "Spent 3 nights with our 2 sons and my husband's 2 granddaughters, all under age 12. Bathrooms/showers were clean. Site we stayed at had full hook ups."
Back-in site considerations: Some parks have limited pull-through availability. A Streamside RV Park visitor explained: "All sites are a back in site yet it was long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up. The sites are tight like most RV parks."
