The Camden area sits at the western edge of the Tug Hill Plateau, with elevations ranging from 400-500 feet above sea level in the camping areas. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with campgrounds typically receiving over 40 inches of annual precipitation. Camping near Camden, New York provides access to both lake-based recreation and woodland experiences, with several campgrounds offering hiking trails connecting to larger regional trail systems.
What to do
Hiking trails at Green Lakes State Park: The park features a network of trails including a 3.1 mile loop around two glacier-formed turquoise lakes. A visitor noted, "There are miles of trails to explore. There is a camp store, laundry room, recreation room, playgrounds and much more."
Fishing at Delta Lake: This reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities for bass, perch, and pike. One camper mentioned, "The lake is a flooded area foaming a reservoir stocked with game fish as bass, perch, and pike. There is a very nice playground for the children and ample bathroom facilities including showers."
Water recreation on Oneida Lake: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers shuttle service to both the casino and nearby water activities. A reviewer shared, "For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the street."
Paddleboating at camp: Multiple campgrounds rent small watercraft for on-site use. According to one camper at Green Lakes State Park Campground, "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore."
What campers like
Crystal clear water: The lakes in this region have distinctive water clarity and color. As one visitor reported about Green Lakes, "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails."
Lakefront camping access: Delta Lake State Park Campground offers premium waterfront sites. A reviewer noted, "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise. The road to get in was for the most part well taken care of."
Modern shower facilities: Several campgrounds feature recently renovated bathroom facilities. At Green Lakes State Park, a camper shared, "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground."
Proximity to local attractions: Camping options near Camden provide convenient access to regional activities. A visitor at Hidden Point Camp Ground commented, "It's right in the water with access via boat or even kayak to Slyvan Beach. We love it here and will definitely be back!"
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds in the Camden region close by mid-October. A camper at Delta Lake noted, "We go here at least twice a season if not more. Spacious, mostly flat sides. Complete shade and a lot of sites right on the water."
Railroad noise at some locations: Train tracks run near certain campgrounds, creating periodic noise disturbances. A reviewer at The Villages RV Park mentioned, "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots."
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature open layouts with limited privacy between sites. One visitor at Oneida Shores County Park observed, "Sites are small and close together. Nice wooded setting on the lake."
Shower locations may be inconvenient: At some parks, shower facilities are located away from camping areas. According to a camper at Oneida Shores, "Showers are available but a bit far from the actual campground. Water was warm but the water pressure wasn't great."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access with lifeguards: Several campgrounds offer supervised swimming areas during summer months. A visitor to Delta Lake shared, "They have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach. The concession stand at the beach will deliver to your camp site."
Splash pads and playgrounds: Verona Beach State Park Campground features family-friendly water features. A camper reported, "Verona Beach State Park is nice and close to home. Also close to Utica and Rome. The kids love to hang out at the splash pad and the state recently revamped some of the playgrounds."
Planned activities for children: Many campgrounds schedule regular family events. According to a reviewer at Mayfair Campground, "Many planned activities for kids: hayrides, sandcastle contests, Santa visit in July. Live bands or DJ's on holiday weekends."
Safe fishing areas for younger campers: Designated fishing locations accommodate beginning anglers. A visitor at Ta-Ga-Soke Campgrounds stated, "The site was very close to water and boat launch and that was great."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability varies: Treasure Isle RV Park offers various hookup configurations. A camper noted, "The sites are a good size with water and electric on each site. There is a dumping station to use, some sewer sites."
Paved sites at select campgrounds: The Villages RV Park provides premium paved parking areas. A visitor explained, "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd."
Water connections may require planning: Some parks don't offer direct hookups but provide spigots throughout the grounds. According to a review of Oneida Shores, "Water and electric only. Bathroom at campground. And Nice bathhouse over near beach with pass entry for campers only for showers."
Varying degrees of shade coverage: RV sites range from fully wooded to open areas. A camper at Delta Lake mentioned, "Spacious, mostly flat sides. Complete shade and a lot of sites right on the water."
