Camping options near Henderson, New York provide access to Lake Ontario shorelines and the St. Lawrence Seaway region. The area sits at approximately 300 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak camping season. Strong winds from Lake Ontario can impact tent camping and awning use, particularly at waterfront sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access for anglers. At Southwick Beach State Park Campground, the sandbar extends far into the water. "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever," notes one camper who visits 3-5 times yearly.
Golf and camping combo: Streamside RV Park combines camping with a 12-hole golf course. "There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground," explains a visitor, adding that "There is a bar that serves food called Divots" with prime rib on the menu.
Water sports: Lake Ontario provides extensive paddling opportunities when winds cooperate. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, campers can "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."
Military recreation: Fort Drum Recreation Area offers outdoor activities specifically for military families. One reviewer notes it's perfect "for the several military families looking to disconnect a couple of miles from home" and has "several forms of outdoor entertainment" plus a dog park.
What campers like
Island camping experience: The approach to Association Island creates a distinct camping atmosphere. "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," writes one visitor.
Spectacular sunsets: Waterfront sites provide memorable evening views. A Swan Bay Resort camper enthuses about "our riverviews from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river, the river sites do face west, so you do get beautiful sunsets."
Seasonal community: Many campgrounds feature seasonal residents who return year after year. At Streamside RV Park, "There are a lot of seasonal campsites that have decks, nice furniture out at their spots," and one reviewer observed "Everyone here is a golfer and there are no children."
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality rates highly in many reviews. At Southwick Beach, campers note "Bathrooms were immaculate" and "bathrooms are meticulously cleaned," while others appreciate the "Good hot showers" and "Friendly staff."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Lake Ontario generates significant wind that impacts camping equipment. One Brennan Beach Campground visitor warns about paddling conditions: "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."
Site types vary substantially: Research specific site locations before booking. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, a camper advises "I definitely recommend the sunrise size. 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."
Seasonal population: Some campgrounds have distinct local communities. At Brennan Beach, "A lot of locals camp here seasonally, and if you're not from around there, you'll stick out. We had a few awkward interactions but nothing serious. Mostly just funny."
Flooding risk: Sites near Lake Ontario can experience water issues. At Southwick Beach, "After it rained one night our site & others around us were completely flooded," while another visitor noted their "fire out was underwater. Lake Ontario was so high, there was barely any beach."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. At Fort Drum Recreation Area, "They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones" creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Safe swimming areas: Lake Ontario offers child-friendly swimming when calm. At Southwick Beach, "Lake Ontario is an amazing lake to be on and the water is pretty warm in the summer time. The waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids."
Rental options: Many families appreciate cabin accommodations. Swan Bay Resort features "lots of rental park models and cottages close to the pool and Tiki Bar," offering alternatives to traditional camping.
Activity planning: Some parks provide organized recreation. At Bedford Creek Marina & Campground, families enjoy "everyone riding around on golf carts" as part of the camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV site sizes vary significantly between campgrounds. At Ontario Shores RV Park, "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites are level and spacious."
Hookup specifics: Most parks offer full hookups but with different configurations. At Streamside RV Park, some sites are "long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up" while the price point was noted as "a good price for full hook up."
Gate access systems: Some larger parks implement security measures. Swan Bay Resort is "gated so you get a gate card to enter the park," and also provides "a BOGO card to use at the Tiki Bar which has specials during the week."
Maintenance quality: RVers note the condition of roadways and pads. Association Island features "paved roadways" and sites that are well maintained, while Streamside RV Park is "meticulously kept" according to reviewers.
