Camping in the Fort Drum region offers access to Lake Ontario shorelines, the St. Lawrence River, and the Thousand Islands region with terrain that ranges from riverside flatlands to wooded settings. The area receives significant rainfall during summer camping season with average temperatures reaching 80°F from June through August. Water levels can fluctuate significantly between early and late season, affecting shoreline camping areas.
What to do
Paddle on the St. Lawrence River: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Sun Outdoors Association Island where "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."
Fishing opportunities: Sites at Wellesley Island State Park Campground provide access to "some of the best fishing in the country" with opportunities to "catch some perch and have a fish fry back at camp." The park includes fish cleaning stations near the boat rental area.
Golf during your stay: The 12-hole course surrounding Streamside RV Park & Golf Course provides convenient recreation without leaving the campground. "This is a privately owned very nice campground! The owners take pride in their business and the grounds are meticulously kept. Everyone here is a golfer."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: The Bluejay camping area at Wellesley Island State Park offers exceptional privacy where campers find "very spacious and private" tent sites. Waterfront access is available at "Bluejay 2 and 3" providing opportunities for "fishing and canoeing."
Unique island settings: Sun Outdoors Association Island offers a distinct camping experience with "the approach by way of a single lane bridge to the island is beautiful. Once on the island, it's obvious that this is a great place for retreat. Surrounded by Lake Ontario, it's a secluded and idyllic setting."
Stunning waterfront views: Sites at Ontario Shores RV Park provide scenic vistas despite recent changes to the shoreline. "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."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most rv parks near Fort Drum, New York operate between May and October, with some extending to mid-October. "The park is gated so you get a gate card to enter the park" at Swan Bay Resort, which offers amenities like the Tiki Bar with special promotions during weekday evenings.
Weather considerations: Strong winds can impact camping along Lake Ontario. At Swan Bay Resort, one camper "mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper and beware of winds if you want to be on the water."
Electrical limitations: Some campgrounds have power capacity issues. At HTR Adirondacks, "they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have and we should not have our hot water on electric. Until we get our LP fixed that is all we have so no hot water the whole weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Fort Drum Recreation Area provides amenities specifically for pets where "they offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones." This military campground creates a comfortable environment for the whole family.
Playgrounds and activities: HTR Adirondacks offers engaging recreational options where children can enjoy "swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water." The creek provides natural entertainment that keeps kids occupied throughout the day.
Nature center resources: Wellesley Island State Park features educational opportunities where families can "head to the nature center and follow the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas." The nature center provides programming suitable for children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Brennan Beach Campground, experienced RVers recommend requesting sites away from the highest traffic areas. "Sites are close together, but kind of what is expected at an RV resort." The campground offers full hookups with clean facilities despite the proximity to neighboring units.
Accessibility for larger rigs: RV sites at Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA provide adequate space for larger units but feature mature trees for privacy. "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites." The owners provide assistance during arrival to help position units effectively.
Water quality awareness: Water quality varies across the region's rv parks. At Swan Bay Resort, campers note that "water reaks of chlorine. DO NOT drink the water. Made the mistake of using it for morning coffee. So much chlorine its like pool water." Bringing bottled water is recommended for drinking and cooking.
