Camping near Irondequoit, New York centers around two distinct camping seasons: a primary May-October season and limited winter options at select year-round facilities. Most sites within 30 miles of Irondequoit require advance booking, with reservation windows opening 9-12 months ahead for summer weekends. Campsites typically cost $20-45 per night depending on hookups, with higher rates for lakeside locations and holiday weekends.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Ontario: Webster Park offers access to Lake Ontario fishing with species including salmon, trout, bass, and pike. According to a camper at Webster Park: "Tucked back in the woods very close too lake Ontario very short distance to city shopping restaurant etc everything at your fingertip."
Hiking local trails: Campgrounds near Irondequoit provide access to hiking trails of varying difficulty. A visitor noted: "There is hiking in the park, lots of nice woods, big field for playing games/sports. We stay on the outer ring on that side of loop as it gives access to the woods and trails behind the sites."
Water activities: Hamlin Beach State Park Campground provides swimming and boating opportunities on Lake Ontario. One camper mentioned: "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."
Historical exploration: The area surrounding Irondequoit offers historical sites within driving distance. A camper at Letchworth State Park Campground shared: "The camp store offered a few grocery items, along with cold drinks, firewood and ice in addition to laundry facilities. Within a short walk were many hiking trails, an old-school fitness path, and a stellar playground."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between campsites. A visitor to Monroe County Webster Park noted: "Small little park with few amenities on Lake Ontario. Sites are spacious, however specific to size of camper. This is a hidden gem for those of us who live close for short weekend trips."
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. One camper at Webster Park shared: "We did a last minute reservation and ended up loving the place. There was good separation between the campsites and the bathrooms and showers were clean. Wasn't too far from a park along Ontario. Overall a great stay!"
Proximity to urban amenities: The convenience of camping near Rochester while still enjoying natural surroundings is frequently mentioned. A camper described: "This is a nice little park. I've stayed four times in 2021, for a much as 2 weeks at a time. Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store (but the town of Webster is nearby)."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers value the peaceful setting of Monroe County Webster Park: "Nothing bad to say about webster park. Beautiful peaceful and quiet." Another visitor commented: "This was our first trip here. It was nothing short of perfect. Staff was super helpful and friendly. Camp sites are wooded and private. Very quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Seasonal variation: Campgrounds operate primarily from May through October with limited winter availability. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, a camper noted: "This KOA has all that you need for a relaxing family trip. It is close to the finger lakes, is clean, has kid activities and a pond where the fish are easy to catch with hotdogs!"
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for leveling. One camper mentioned: "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. A camper advised: "They allow reservations online on the monroe county parks website, and are open May 1st to October 31st."
Weather considerations: The Lake Ontario shore experiences variable weather conditions. Wind from the lake can affect camping comfort, particularly in early spring and late fall when temperatures can drop suddenly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. A family who stayed at Webster Park shared: "Nice central playground and bathroom/shower house. There is hiking in the park, lots of nice woods, big field for playing games/sports. It's close to town and home for us."
Loop-friendly campsites: Families appreciate campgrounds with safe areas for children to explore. One parent mentioned: "The campground is very quiet and very kid friendly to allow them to walk around and ride or scooter the loop alone."
Activities for different ages: Southwoods RV Resort offers numerous activities for children. A visitor commented: "Southwoods is a beautiful campground and accommodates campers of all ages. 2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball."
Budget-friendly options: Families can find economical camping options with amenities included. A camper noted: "I absolutely loved my time here with my son! Camp sites are private and have everything you need for tent camping! Showers and bathrooms clean! Sink available for dishes. Playground. Lots of beautiful trails!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should check specific hookup options before booking. A camper at Big Guys Campground shared: "All the sites are large and designed for family and friends to contact and enjoy."
Site size considerations: RVers recommend verifying site dimensions before arrival. One camper advised: "We had an electric hook-up for our 17' travel trailer. Two-headed water spigots are shared by 2 sites, which worked reasonably well; we were glad we had an extra hose to reach back to our camper."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or convenient dump stations. A visitor noted: "We had an amazing time at this park! Friendly people, plenty for the kids to do. Playground in walking distance and private sites! We loved it here. Will definitely return. You need a long hose for fresh water in the RV. No sewer sites."
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds offer discounted rates for longer stays. A camper mentioned: "The sites for large rigs are very close together but that is not surprising. Our site was clean and reasonably level but there was no shade at all. We were comfortable, though, after putting out the awning and setting up our portable gazebo."
