RV camping near Ellisburg, New York offers opportunities along the Lake Ontario shoreline with sites available from late spring through mid-fall. Situated in Jefferson County at approximately 400 feet above sea level, the area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter snowfall exceeds 100 inches annually, contributing to the short camping season and early closures of many facilities.
What to do
Fishing excursions: The waters around Sun Outdoors Association Island provide excellent fishing opportunities along Lake Ontario. "Fishing was fun…lots of places to go to fish and the scenery was awesome," notes one visitor who enjoyed the variety of spots available.
Golf access: Streamside RV Park & Golf Course combines camping with golfing on their 12-hole course. "There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground," reports a camper who stayed there while traveling between Niagara Falls and Vermont.
Water activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at waterfront campsites, though conditions vary. One camper at Association Island mentions, "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."
Scenic river tours: The St. Lawrence River area offers boat tours within an hour's drive. "Highly recommend a boat tour of the St. Lawrence River!" suggests a camper who explored beyond their campsite at Association Island.
What campers like
Lakefront views: Many campers praise the sunset views at Ontario Shores RV Park. "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," notes a reviewer who spent several nights in their motorhome.
Island camping experience: The unique setting at Association Island impresses many visitors. "Going across to the island is so fun and feels so special. The views are beautiful i definitely recommend the sunrise size," shares one camper who appreciated the location.
Star-gazing opportunities: Limited light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. "We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. The stars were everywhere," reports a camper who stayed at a lakeside site.
Social atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster community interactions. "The seasonal campers are friendly," mentions a visitor at Ontario Shores RV Park, highlighting the welcoming environment that many campers appreciate.
What you should know
Seasonal camping conditions: The typical camping season runs May through mid-October with variable weather. "Sunsets were phenomenal! I mean, jaw dropping gorgeous. One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario," warns a camper at Association Island.
Wind exposure: Lakefront sites often experience significant wind. "Within walking distance is a Price Chopper Grocery, Dollar General, gas station, and wine and liquor store. There is a free boat launch and boat slips for guests. I was hoping to spend a bit of time on my paddleboard but soon realized it is very windy here and found very few windows to paddle. Our neighbor (who has camped here seasonally for the last four years) mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind," cautions a reviewer at Swan Bay Resort.
Site variations: Campground quality and site spacing vary considerably across the region. "This campground was nice but very crowded. It was Memorial Day weekend but the spots were not very big," notes one camper about their Association Island experience.
Military camping option: For those with military connections, Fort Drum Recreation Area offers specialized accommodations. "Remington is a Military campground, but for the several military families looking to disconnect a couple of miles from home this would be it. They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Multiple swimming pools provide relief during summer heat. "Pool was nice and clean but one of the pool decks was closed for construction. Pool water was freezing this time of year," mentions a family who visited Association Island in early season.
Kid-friendly environment: Many campgrounds accommodate children with open spaces and recreational facilities. "Great for families. Lots of kids safely and respectfully running around on bikes, scooters, etc.," observes a visitor at Association Island.
Playground access: Brennan Beach Campground offers play areas for children. "Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants. Spent time at the beach which is also very nice," reports a family who camped there with children under 12.
Budget planning: Some lakefront sites command premium prices, especially on weekends. "What I spent here for 2 nights I could have stayed a week at a KOA, so I did pay for those beautiful river sunsets," notes a camper about their waterfront experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional effort for proper RV setup. "Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario. Our site was full hookup and gravel based," shares an RV owner who enjoyed their lakeside positioning.
Site selection strategy: Consider the orientation of waterfront sites for optimal views. "The sunset is of course beautiful but sunrise sites are much bigger and can lead right to the water which is much nicer. It's a lot less windy and easier to be in the water," advises a repeat visitor to Association Island.
Check-in assistance: Love's RV Hookup provides just 5 full-service sites for travelers passing through the region, while other campgrounds offer more extensive support. "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver," appreciates a camper who valued the parking assistance at a busy campground.
Reservation timing: Early booking is essential during peak season, especially for waterfront sites. "We stopped here for a night going from Niagara Falls area to upper vermont. All sites are a back in site yet it was long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up," mentions a traveler who paid $37.50 for a one-night stay at Streamside RV Park.
