Campgrounds near Irondequoit, New York offer varied terrain from the Erie Canal lowlands to the more elevated settings of the Finger Lakes region. Most camping options are seasonal with availability from April or May through October. Winter temperatures in the region regularly drop below freezing, making off-season camping uncommon except at specialized sites.
What to do
Kayaking access: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides convenient water access with "kayak launches and boat marina nearby," according to camper Rachel T., who appreciates the location for water activities.
Trail exploration: Holiday Hill Campground serves as an excellent base for hiking, with a camper noting there are "tons to do in the area but town isn't too far." The campground's proximity to multiple trail systems makes it popular with day hikers.
Weekend entertainment: Dream Lake Campground offers structured activities during peak season. "Nice friendly environment, clean facilities. Lots to do for kids and adults. Weekend activities," reports Nick O., highlighting the organized recreation options available to campers.
What campers like
Child-friendly environments: At Dream Lake Campground, strict speed limits create safer spaces for families. One reviewer mentioned it's "very family friendly lots of activities been going here 6 years now and never have had a bad time."
Attentive management: Campers at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort appreciate the personal touch from owners. "Barb and Red are fantastic hosts. They are accommodating and entertaining," writes Rachel T., highlighting the importance of good campground management.
Onsite food options: Some campers value the convenience of prepared food. At Dream Lake Campground, a visitor noted, "The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love."
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites require significant adjustment. At Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, one camper reported, "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."
Seasonal populations: Many campgrounds near Irondequoit have long-term residents. A visitor to Holiday Hill noted, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get."
Management styles vary: Campground experiences can depend heavily on management. One reviewer of Dream Lake Campground expressed concerns about rule enforcement, stating, "Owners yell at campers, strict about rules for everyone except their friends."
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Tent campsites near Irondequoit, New York can vary in noise levels. At Holiday Hill Campground, a camper advised, "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds feature designated recreation spaces. Twilight on the Erie offers "kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff."
Weekend activity planning: Structured activities can enhance family camping trips. A Dream Lake visitor recommended their weekend programming, stating they "never have had a bad time" participating in the scheduled events over multiple seasons.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites carefully when making reservations. A Holiday Hill camper shared, "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side."
Connectivity considerations: Cell reception varies between campgrounds. A camper at Holiday Hill Campground reported, "Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars," which provides useful information for those needing to stay connected.
Facility cleanliness: Bathroom facilities are important for extended stays. One camper at Twilight on the Erie noted, "The staff are really nice and the place is clean," while another at Holiday Hill mentioned "the campground has clean bathrooms," showing the importance of maintenance at tent campsites near Irondequoit.
