Dispersed camping near Fort Drum can be found at Payne Lake, which offers primitive camping with no amenities. The Thousand Islands region maintains a short camping season running from early May through mid-October due to harsh winters. Sites near water bodies like Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River provide opportunities for various water activities with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities abound: Wellesley Island State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access. "We usually get 2 sites and place as many as 5 tents between the 2 sites! Watch out for the skunks and raccoons on this island, they are huge from partaking in campers food! The fishing on the St. Lawrence is awesome! Catch some perch and have a fish fry back at camp," notes Amanda H.
Water activities for all ages: Sun Outdoors Association Island provides direct access to Lake Ontario. "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," shares Donna C., highlighting the ease of water access.
Hiking trails throughout the area: Wellesley Island State Park Campground features multiple hiking options. "Hiking trails all over the park. There's a marina, boat launch and boat rentals. Docking. You can even day trip it use public grills and still enjoy everything the park has to offer," explains John L.
What campers like
Direct waterfront access: Kring Point State Park Campground offers sites directly on the water. "Almost every campsite is on the water. It's so nice it's hard to reserve, because people grab it nine months in advance," warns Brian F.
Nature viewing opportunities: Payne Lake Dispersed Site provides peaceful wildlife viewing. "Beautiful views, peaceful and quiet," notes Mona M., highlighting the undeveloped nature of this primitive camping area.
Well-maintained facilities: Fort Drum Recreation Area stands out for military families. "Remington is a beautiful well kept place and I could spend my summer there. They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones," shares Crystal H.
What you should know
Reservations needed well in advance: The best places to camp near Fort Drum, New York fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "We've camped here every year but it's getting difficult to get in here. We love sitting on big rocks, watching sunsets and ships go by," mentions Laura H. about Kring Point State Park.
Variable site privacy levels: Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA offers more secluded options. "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites," notes Liz M.
Insect preparedness essential: Summer camping near Fort Drum requires bug protection. "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario," warns Tracey G. about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: 1000 Islands Campground offers kid-friendly facilities. "My son loved the playground. Right behind gals ice cream. Park was clean! Bathrooms were nice," reports Sara H.
Beach swimming areas: Kring Point State Park provides safe swimming spots for children. "Two beaches to swim. Great fishing from almost every part of this park," notes Brian F., making it ideal for families with varied interests.
Educational opportunities: Wellesley Island State Park includes nature learning centers. "We camped here with one of our children, and had a wonderful time canoeing, fishing, and spending time together," shares Trina W., highlighting family-friendly activities.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Swan Bay Resort caters specifically to RV needs. "Our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great. Oh, and the best part was our view of the St. Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds," explains Matt S.
Big rig accessibility: Consider turning radius at campgrounds when driving larger rigs. "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," cautions Bryan about 1000 Islands Campground.
Wind considerations for awnings: Lake Ontario camping locations experience strong winds. "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," advises Nancy W. about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
