Camping near Edwards, New York offers diverse experiences from waterfront sites along the St. Lawrence River to secluded forested campgrounds in the Adirondack region. The area sits at the northern edge of the Adirondack foothills where elevations range from 500 to 1,500 feet, creating varied camping environments. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, while summer averages range from 55°F to 80°F with moderate rainfall year-round.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Eel Weir State Park Campground's location on the Oswegatchie River provides excellent fishing access. "I love how it has great fishing and nice camp sites even let's you bring a boat nice clean showers and bathroom can easily find firewood near by as well," notes David H. The park is known for its calm waters suitable for beginners.
Water activities: Jacques Cartier State Park Campground offers swimming and boating options on the St. Lawrence River. According to Scott F., "A boat launch in the park may it easy for boaters. A beach/swimming area is great for the whole family." Many campers also enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking in the protected cove areas.
Boat-accessible camping: Stillwater Reservoir provides a unique experience with most sites requiring boat access. "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self. Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there," reports Sam T. The reservoir offers over 40 first-come, first-served sites spread across the shoreline and islands.
What Campers Like
Waterfront access: Kring Point State Park Campground offers sites directly on the water with distinctive rocky shorelines. Carol B. explains, "This site is on Goose Bay, but the sites across the road are on the St Lawrence River just a few hundred feet away. Water nearby, brand new bathrooms with showers and two kitchen clean up stations are a short walk away." Many sites feature flat rock shorelines ideal for swimming access.
Peace and quiet: Rollins Pond Campground provides a more secluded experience despite its size. "Not super spread out but was definitely a beautiful spot. Near fish creek. We loved riding bikes, ice cream truck every night. Ice and firewood available. Close store for goods. Kayaking was wonderful," shares one camper. The campground sits at the end of a dead-end road, limiting through traffic.
Accessible amenities: Francis Lake campground offers basic but well-maintained facilities in a serene setting. "This spot is totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet. Room for two or three tents, two fire circles and has an outhouse. Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water," notes Elizabeth B. The site includes access points to the water via footbridges.
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through September or October. Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA has a specific season from May 12 to October 15. The limited seasonal window means advanced planning is essential, especially for summer weekends.
Facilities vary widely: Many campgrounds have limited cell service and amenities. Sam T. notes about Stillwater Reservoir: "Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there." Bathroom facilities range from modern shower houses to simple vault toilets depending on location.
Wind considerations: The St. Lawrence River area can experience strong winds. One reviewer mentioned at Swan Bay Resort: "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."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: 1000 Islands Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "My son loved the playground. Right behind gals ice cream. Park was clean! Bathrooms were nice. We didn't have any issues at all!" reports Sara H. The campground's proximity to Alexandria Bay provides easy access to additional family activities.
Evening entertainment: Several campgrounds feature regular evening activities. At Rollins Pond, one camper notes, "ice cream truck every night. Ice and firewood available." Jacques Cartier State Park has similar services with a reviewer mentioning, "on Saturdays a ice cream truck rolls through after dinner!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Rollins Pond, Kristina L. shares, "We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane. The time before, we had a family of loons!" These natural encounters provide educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When glamping close to Edwards, New York in larger RVs, site dimensions matter. At 1000 Islands Campground, 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."
Utilities and hookups: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups while others provide full service. At Jacques Cartier State Park, "About half the sites have electric and the balance are dry," according to Scott F. At Eel Weir State Park, sites are "all non electric, many on the water of the oswegatchie river."
Amenities for extended stays: Swan Bay Resort - The 1000 Islands Premier RV Park & Marina provides comprehensive services for longer visits. "All the sites are the same in that they have paved parking areas with gravel in front, pavers for a patio and full hook-up," writes Nancy W. The resort also offers an RV wash station, which can be valuable for longer trips.
