Camping options near Hilton, New York range from state parks along Lake Ontario's shoreline to secluded woodlands within 30 minutes of town. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with substantial snowfall, while summer camping season typically runs May through October. Most campgrounds in this region offer sites between $30-45 per night for basic electric hookups.
What to do
Lake access activities: Hamlin Beach State Park Campground features miles of paved roads ideal for biking and several beaches. "Great access to the shores of Lake Ontario from campground. Also few mile stretch of beaches. Short but pretty nature trail through the woods opposite the lake as well that goes through hard words and into wetlands," notes Erin T.
Disc golf courses: Big Guys Campground offers an on-site disc golf field along with numerous other recreational options. "There is so much to do at this camp! They have a jump pillow, pool arcade, movie room, RC track, and bingo for everyone," mentions Scott H.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer woodland walking paths suitable for all abilities. At Lakeside State Park Campground, "There are over 4 miles of trails" according to Parker, and the park features "mowed meadows with pretty views of the lake" as described by Katherine P.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide well-separated camping areas with natural barriers. At Webster Park, "The camp sites are a mixture of shade and sun making the experience very enjoyable where you will NOT bake in the sun every daylight hour," explains Brian O. Sites vary in size and privacy throughout the region.
Natural water features: Campers appreciate the variety of water access options near Hilton. "If you want secluded beaches, skip the public beach and head a little West of Area 4, take the sandy path to the water for an amazing hidden grotto," recommends Benjamin C. about Hamlin Beach.
Quiet atmosphere: Timberline Lake Park provides a peaceful setting away from busier parks. "This is a great spot! It's really quiet and you can really feel like you're getting away out here. Their little cabins are really cute and not too expensive too!" says Mariah G.
What you should know
Cell reception limitations: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. At Hamlin Beach, "At&t reception is almost non existent. On a plus side the park itself is beautiful," reports Rino S. Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
Seasonal facilities: Not all amenities operate year-round. "The camp store is closed along with no firewood and no laundry. We stayed for 2 weeks and it was so relaxing," mentions Scott H. about Hamlin Beach State Park.
Site conditions vary: Many parks have mixed terrain that affects camping comfort. At Monroe County Webster Park, "numerous sites around us were muddy, too. There was standing water in the road way. This place really needs to pave the road and provide asphalt RV pads," reports Craig J.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Hilton feature recreational areas specifically for children. Southwoods RV Resort has "2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball. The employees are so helpful and nice!" according to Hope C.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programming and learning activities. "The campground has an activity room full of things to do. As a state park, there are a lot of different people with different values, so be ready for the occasional obnoxious family," notes Scott H. about Hamlin Beach.
Water safety considerations: Lakes and ponds require supervision. "They do close the beach sometimes for health concerns, check with the rangers," advises Amber A., while Brian O. mentions that "It has a beautiful well groomed sandy white beach fully staffed by certified lifeguards."
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: Electric sites are common but water connections can be limited. "Sites are electric only but with a 100' hose you can reach a spigot from most any spot to re-fill the camper," notes Benjamin C. about Hamlin Beach State Park Campground.
Site selection strategy: Letchworth State Park Campground offers various loops with different advantages. "The loops near the Lower Falls are our favorites, but any choice is a good one. All are close to the gorge/river and wooded, and connect to trails directly from your campsite," suggests Harry H.
Pad surfaces: Most pet-friendly RV sites in the region have gravel bases. "Our site was a little snug getting into but opened up nicely behind the tree line at the road. Overall very nice, roomy, wooded, private sites with a nice beach not too far from the sites," describes Jason about Hamlin Beach.
