The St. Lawrence River region surrounding Copenhagen, New York sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with distinct four-season weather patterns. Winter temperatures frequently dip below freezing while summer brings warm days with average highs of 75-80°F. The area's glacial landscape features a mix of dense forests, open meadows, and waterfront access points with camping options available primarily from May through October.
What to Do
Paddling opportunities: Launch directly from your campsite at Burnham Point State Park Campground where the St. Lawrence River provides calm waters for beginners. "We were able to drop our kayaks right in the water in front of our rig and paddle to our heart's content. The water is clear and cool," reports one visitor.
Fishing spots: Bring gear to cast from shore at multiple access points. "Great fishing from almost every part of this park. Two beaches to swim. Almost every campsite is on the water," explains a camper at Kring Point State Park.
Stargazing sessions: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at several parks. "We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. The stars were everywhere," notes a visitor at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Hiking routes: Follow trails connecting Francis Lake to nearby natural areas. "This spot is totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet. Room for two or three tents, two fire circles and has an outhouse," describes a camper at Francis Lake.
What Campers Like
Waterfront access: Many sites feature direct water entry points for swimming and boating. "Every site has a fire ring with a grill and picnic table. Loons are calling, a mink scampered by on the flat rock shore 15' away with a fish in its mouth," observes a camper at Kring Point State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife sightings. At Stillwater Reservoir, one visitor noted, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms are great- showers with nice and hot water," reports a camper at Burnham Point State Park Campground, though they also noted, "lake front campsites are all on a slope- minimum flat space."
Yurt camping options: Copenhagen, New York area offers yurt accommodations for those seeking rustic shelter. Long Point State Park Campground provides yurt rentals with comfortable beds and electricity throughout the summer months.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Prepare for sudden weather changes, especially on the water. "It can get quite windy on the point so take a wind break or shelter," advises a camper at Long Point State Park Campground.
Reservation timeline: Book early for premium sites, especially waterfront locations. "It's so nice it's hard to reserve, because people grab it nine months in advance," explains a Kring Point camper.
Seasonal insect activity: Midges and mayflies emerge in large numbers during warmer months. "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario," reports a visitor at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Limited services: Some remote locations offer minimal amenities. "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir. I believe all the sites have privy boxes on them," advises a camper about Stillwater Reservoir.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Swan Bay Resort, a visitor noted, "The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore."
Swimming safety: Many waterfront sites have designated swimming areas with variable depths. "Access is off of I81, down a few back roads and across a causeway. Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario," explains a camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Bathroom facilities: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer updated shower buildings. "Personal toilet, shower & sink are contained within separate rooms within the amenity block, perfect for couples and young families," describes a visitor at Long Point State Park Campground.
Yurt camping near Copenhagen: For families seeking shelter without tent setup, consider yurt options at nearby state parks that offer raised platforms with canvas walls and wooden floors.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Many parks offer arrival assistance with site navigation. At Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA, "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites. The campground is clean and well kept."
Access roads: Expect variable road conditions when approaching some campgrounds. "A 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road," reports a visitor to Stillwater Reservoir, while another camper notes of Swan Bay Resort, "Blacktop roads, cement pads, big rig friendly."
Wind protection: Secure awnings and loose items, especially at waterfront locations. "Our neighbor (who has camped here seasonally for the last four years) mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind," cautions a visitor at Swan Bay Resort.
