Most campgrounds near Central Square, New York operate from May through October, with limited options during winter months. The area features several full-service RV parks along Lake Ontario's southern shore, where water levels can fluctuate seasonally. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Brennan Beach Campground offers easy access to both Lake Ontario fishing and nearby attractions. "We went and it is a 'must see' while there. Basically 15 minutes from the campground. That is by RV as we had no toad this time. Mexico Point is another close attraction to see as well," notes Robert M.
Golf course camping: Streamside RV Park & Golf Course features a 12-hole golf course surrounding the campground area. "There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground," explains B M. A camper notes, "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."
Hiking trails: Access walking trails near several Central Square RV parks. The Chenango Canal trail offers historic canal-side walking opportunities. The camping area at Butternut Hill "backs to the woods on the west side, so this serves as a good windbreak too," according to Janet R., who adds that you'll find "access to some hiking and fishing spots in close proximity."
What campers like
Beach access: Lake Ontario shoreline access varies between campgrounds. "Spent time at the beach which is also very nice," notes Becky about Brennan Beach. Lake level changes impact beach conditions, as Tim W. points out about Ontario Shores: "Lake Ontario a short walk away, the lake level flooding a few yrs ago ruined the sandy beach, but it's still a great view."
Well-maintained facilities: Ontario Shores RV Park receives praise for site quality. "The overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, sites a level and spacious," writes Tim W., who spent four nights in a motorhome. The park offers "open field to walk the dog or for children."
Seasonal community: Many RV parks near Central Square develop regular seasonal communities. At Treasure Isle RV Park, "Owners and seasonals are very friendly, well maintained," according to Keri. Similarly, Tim W. notes about Ontario Shores that "The seasonal campers are friendly."
What you should know
Site availability: During peak season, many RV parks have limited availability for short-term stays. "There are a lot of seasonal campsites that have decks, nice furniture out at their spots. They all left Sunday afternoon yet the rigs stay there," explains B M. about Streamside RV Park.
Price variations: Costs range from $30-70 per night depending on hookups and location. Treasure Isle RV Park provides "water and electric on each site. There is a dumping station to use, some sewer sites," according to Heather R. At Streamside RV Park, B M. reports, "we paid $37.50 for a one night stay. That is a good price for full hook up."
Local knowledge matters: First-time visitors may stand out at some established camping communities. At Brennan Beach, "A lot of locals camp here seasonally, and if you're not from around there, you'll stick out. We had a few awkward interactions but nothing serious. Mostly just funny," shares Kristen L.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for RV parks with dedicated kid-friendly facilities. "Bathrooms/showers were clean. Site we stayed at had full hook ups. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants," reports Becky about her stay at Brennan Beach with multiple children under 12.
Swimming options: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers family-friendly amenities. "For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool," Michael O. notes. Another visitor mentions, "Sites are spacious, lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean."
Recreation diversity: Parks offer varying activities for different age groups. "We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs... The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," shares Jen O. about Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Butternut Hill RV Campground and other parks accommodate different RV sizes. "All sites are a back in site yet it was long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up," notes B M. about Streamside's configuration. At Turning Stone, Michael O. observes the sites are "paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks near Central Square close between mid-October and late April. "Spent 4 nights in a motorhome looking to return next year," writes Tim W. about Ontario Shores, which typically operates May through October. At Treasure Isle, the season runs "April 28 to October 15."
Hookup availability: Research electrical capacity before arrival. "We had a no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A," reports Frank M. about Turning Stone. Many parks offer both 30-amp and 50-amp options, though availability varies by location.
