The glamping scene near Clayton, New York spans several state parks along the St. Lawrence River. The region has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, with camping season typically running May through October. Water temperatures in the St. Lawrence River reach the mid-70s during peak summer months, making water activities comfortable without wetsuits.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Eel Weir State Park Campground sits on the Oswegatchie River with multiple fishing spots. "There is a small boat launch area. A new playground in 2017. Worth a look if you like your peace and quiet," notes Mary D. The park has a family of owls that "inhabit the trees that you see every night," according to Aaron P.
Water recreation access: Kring Point State Park Campground offers swimming areas on both Goose Bay and the St. Lawrence River. "Kring point has islands as well you can jump off the rocks into the water," says Sara H. The park features "great rock cliffs to jump off and swim! The fishing is also awesome, my husband caught a pike and small mouth bass his first day!" adds Christina B.
Beach activities: Southwick Beach State Park Campground has "TONS of beach to explore" according to Matt G., who notes "Lake Ontario is an amazing lake to be on and the water is pretty warm in the summer time. The waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids." The park includes "a sizable playground near the beach that is great for the kids."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Burnham Point State Park Campground features sites directly on the St. Lawrence River. Daniel V. notes it's a "nice little state park with great views on the St Lawrence river. Try to find a campsite by the river. You can go swim or do SUP and whatnot." Tucker B. adds, "Paddling the St. Lawrence River was a highlight and it was also super convenient to be able to get work done via my hotspot right from our site."
Clean facilities: Southwick Beach State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities. Theresa F. mentions, "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever-campsites roomy and well taken care of-bathrooms are meticulously cleaned." Zen W. adds, "Good hot showers. Friendly staff," though notes the park "is currently in a construction zone and is experiencing flooding and dune erosion."
Quiet atmosphere: Jacques Cartier State Park Campground provides a peaceful setting for glamping in Clayton, New York. Scott F. calls it "Small, quiet and fantastic! The park is unbelievably well kept. The sites are large with some located with waterfront (St. Lawrence River)." Joseph B. adds, "We have never heard of this place... Took a chance and it didn't disappoint. Swimming hole was nice and relaxing."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Kring Point State Park can experience significant wind. BEN B. notes, "Depending on day - EXTREMELY VERY WINDY AND COLD! But the view is beautiful." At Swan Bay Resort, Michael M. observed similar conditions: "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."
Site selection: Long Point State Park Campground has variable site quality. Nancy G. notes, "Best sites are hard to book ahead and are best for tents or small trailers." Carl G. warns about wet sites: "We arrived at Long Point to find out that the site is very wet. Took a different site and buried our class c up to rear axel, could not stay here 3 days later."
Seasonal limitations: Many parks have limited seasons. Southwick Beach operates "May 13 to October 9" while Eel Weir runs "May 27 to September 4." Kring Point's season runs "May 6 to October 9," making fall glamping options more limited.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Long Point State Park has "nice play spaces for kids of all ages, and also has a nice playground area," according to Nancy G. Jacques Cartier State Park offers "a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it," says Alycia M., who adds "on Saturdays a ice cream truck rolls through after dinner!"
Swimming safety: Southwick Beach State Park provides safe swimming for children. Matt G. explains, "Lake Ontario is an amazing lake to be on and the water is pretty warm in the summer time. The waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids." The beach area has lifeguards during summer months.
Entertainment options: Sun Outdoors Association Island provides family activities throughout the season. Matt S. notes, "The park has 2 swimming pools, a tiki bar, a food truck, and nice communal hang-out areas. There's a marina with pontoon boat rentals. They put on Octoberfest during our stay which featured a live band and food and craft vendors."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Swan Bay Resort offers full hookup sites with level concrete pads. Chuck W. says it has "Easy in and out for big rigs. Right on the St. Lawrence River. Many amenities to include 3 bay R.V. wash as well as car wash." Matt S. adds, "Our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great."
Site sizes: 1000 Islands Campground has varying site sizes for RVs. Bryan notes, "Our original site was listed at 55', but there was no way our 43' camper would fit, nor make the tight turn into it. The owner quickly moved us to another site and we're happy with the result." Scott H. mentions the campground is "close to Alexandria Bay" and "golf carts are welcome."
Weather considerations: Sun Outdoors Association Island (formerly Association Island KOA) can be windy. Donna C. explains, "Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario. We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night." April L. adds, "Although it was windy they thought ahead and built the fire pit up to block it."
