The Black River area in upstate New York offers numerous RV camping options within proximity to both Lake Ontario and the Adirondack Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, while spring and fall can see wider temperature swings. The region's combination of waterfront and forested terrain creates diverse camping conditions with sites available from early May through mid-October.
What to do
Water recreation on St. Lawrence River: Swan Bay Resort provides direct access to river activities. "There's a marina with pontoon boat rentals," notes a visitor, adding that it's "right on the Saint Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds."
Golf outings: Streamside RV Park features a 12-hole golf course surrounding the campground. According to one reviewer, "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."
Military history exploration: Fort Drum Recreation Area serves military families as a camping destination just minutes from the base. One camper explained that "Remington is a Military campground, but for the several military families looking to disconnect a couple of miles from home this would be it."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Association Island offers unique peninsula camping. "The approach by way of a single lane bridge to the island is beautiful. Once on the island, it's obvious that this is a great place for retreat. Surrounded by Lake Ontario, it's a secluded and idyllic setting for a RV campground," writes one visitor.
Nightly entertainment: Campgrounds in the region often organize seasonal events. "They put on Octoberfest during our stay which featured a live band and food and craft vendors," mentioned a reviewer at Swan Bay Resort.
Accessibility to supplies: Many rv sites near Black River, New York provide convenient access to necessities. "Within walking distance is a Price Chopper Grocery, Dollar General, gas station, and wine and liquor store," noted a camper about the shopping options near Swan Bay Resort.
What you should know
Wind conditions: HTR Adirondacks (formerly Singing Waters) and lakefront locations experience significant winds. A camper at Swan Bay noted, "Our neighbor who has camped here seasonally for the last four years mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper."
Power limitations: Some campgrounds have electrical challenges. One HTR Adirondacks visitor reported, "We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have and we should not have our hot water on electric."
Seasonal crowds: Summer brings heavy visitation to popular camping areas. "It was PACKED on the weekend, but they have a really efficient check in process and the staff is super nice," mentioned a camper at Brennan Beach Campground about their arrival experience.
Tips for camping with families
River tubing opportunities: Brennan Beach Campground offers family-friendly water recreation. One visitor shared: "Spent 3 nights with our 2 sons and my husbands 2 granddaughters, all under age 12. Bathrooms/showers were clean. Site we stayed at had full hook ups. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants."
Pet-friendly amenities: Fort Drum Recreation Area welcomes families with pets. "They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones," noted a military family camper.
Local attraction recommendations: Staff often provide valuable insights about nearby destinations. A reviewer at Association Island appreciated that "Bob gave us amazing local recommendations!" while another camper mentioned visiting "Salmon River Falls... a 'must see' while there" just 15 minutes from Brennan Beach.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations for large rigs: Ontario Shores RV Park offers more suitable spaces for larger vehicles. "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites are level and spacious," reports one RV owner who spent four nights in a motorhome.
Concrete pad availability: Several RV sites near Black River provide improved parking surfaces. Swan Bay Resort features "all of there sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups" according to a recent visitor who noted the well-maintained infrastructure.
Weather preparation: RV campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations. "Our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great," shared an Association Island visitor, highlighting the importance of reliable hookups during variable weather conditions.
