Canastota offers campers access to several parks nestled between Oneida Lake to the north and rolling farmlands to the south. The region maintains typical upstate New York weather patterns with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Seasonal changes impact campground operations significantly, with most sites closing by mid-October before reopening in late April due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Boat rentals at Green Lakes: Green Lakes State Park features boat rentals ($7/hour for rowboats) allowing access to the striking blue-green waters. "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore," explains Cindy H. The park also maintains a golf course for visitors wanting to mix recreational activities with camping.
Swimming at Delta Lake: The large swimming beach at Delta Lake State Park offers lifeguarded swimming with excellent facilities. "They have a very nice playground for the children and ample bathroom facilities including showers. It is opened in the winter months as well for snow mobiles and x country skiing," notes Brian O. The park also features boat ramps for easy launching of personal watercraft.
Trail exploration: Hiking options include a 3.1-mile shaded loop trail around the glacial lakes at Green Lakes State Park. "There are 2 Great Lakes to hike around with awesome views. Fishing and boat rental if you want to be closer to the water," writes Kelly J. The trails accommodate various difficulty levels making them suitable for most hikers.
What campers like
Unique water features: Green Lakes features rare meromictic lakes with their distinctive blue-green coloration. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands," shares Kenneth S. The unusual water color results from specific mineral content and depth characteristics.
Convenient location: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone provides easy access to entertainment while maintaining natural surroundings. "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," reports April L. This balance makes it popular for campers seeking both outdoor experiences and additional entertainment options.
Waterfront camping opportunities: Delta Lake offers premium lakeside sites for direct water access. "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise," describes Tris W. These waterfront sites typically book quickly during summer months, requiring advance reservations.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds have limited facilities requiring quarters. "Had to pay with quarters to shower not a problem but inconvenient," notes Tate T. about Ta-Ga-Soke Campgrounds. By contrast, Green Lakes provides private bathroom units with toilet, shower, and sink combinations.
Site privacy considerations: Many campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal screening between sites. "The campground isn't the best I've experienced, a bit on the crowded side-similar to a woodsy suburb," explains Rachel P. about Delta Lake State Park. For more privacy, select sites along wooded edges or request specific locations when booking.
Railroad noise affects some areas: At The Villages RV Park, train tracks create periodic noise disturbance. "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots," advises Michael O. Requesting sites toward the south/front of the park minimizes this disruption.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature recently updated play areas for children. "Nice playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," Sara H. observes about Verona Beach State Park. Delta Lake also offers "a new playground at the beach" according to Amy W.
Pet friendly camping near Canastota: For families traveling with pets, Treasure Isle RV Park provides dedicated pet areas. "Owners and seasonals are very friendly, well maintained," reports Keri about the overall condition of this pet-accommodating campground near Canastota, New York. Most campgrounds enforce standard leash requirements.
Swimming safety: Lifeguarded beaches operate at multiple parks during summer months. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," notes Brian O. about Delta Lake. Swimming areas typically feature gradual entry points suitable for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Paved site availability: The Villages RV Park features fully paved sites ideal for larger rigs. "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd," observes Michael O. These sites provide level parking surfaces regardless of weather conditions.
Hookup variations: Electric service is available at most campgrounds, but water and sewer connections vary. "There are no water or electric hookups but there are water spigots throughout the campground," Mary H. explains about Verona Beach. RVers should verify specific site utilities when booking and prepare accordingly.
Bathroom access distance: At larger campgrounds, facilities may require significant walking. "Some sites aren't that close to a bath house, so if you're not planning on duecing in your box, you might be looking at a longer walk than others," warns Michael O. about The Villages RV Park. This consideration becomes particularly important for families with young children or those with mobility limitations.
