Lacona camping options stretch along Lake Ontario shoreline and inland forests in upstate New York. The area receives approximately 120 inches of annual snowfall, which contributes to the short May-October camping season at most facilities. Water levels on Lake Ontario can fluctuate significantly, affecting beach access and waterfront camping sites.
What to do
Salmon fishing: Stoneys Pineville Campground offers direct river access for anglers. A visitor noted, "We have been out three is consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time what a great place to stay." The Salmon River area becomes particularly active during fall salmon runs when fish sizes impress newcomers.
Kayaking: Selkirk Shores State Park provides multiple water access points for paddlers. Campers appreciate the varied shoreline options, with one mentioning "Cabins have a screen and a stone fireplace. Lake Ontario has great fishing." Rentals aren't available on-site, so bring personal watercraft.
Mini golf and family activities: The recreation programs at campgrounds enhance stays for families. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico, "This campground offers so much for people of all ages... Crafts, Games, Activities, Playground, Pool, Bouncy pillow, Twice Daily wagon rides with Yogi and Boo Boo." Most structured activities run mid-June through Labor Day.
What campers like
Lake access: The mix of rocky and sandy beaches creates varied shoreline experiences. At Southwick Beach State Park Campground, visitors appreciate that "Beautiful new buildings on site, variety of campsites. Favorites are the beachfront sites, access to the beach and beautiful Lake Ontario." Beach width varies seasonally based on lake levels.
Cabin options: For visitors without camping equipment, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. A camper at Selkirk Shores State Park noted the facilities are "quiet and peaceful. Electricity is available on many sites... Firewood is available on site, with delivery if you buy 1/4 cord and up." Most cabins require early reservations, sometimes 9-12 months in advance.
Sunset views: Lake Ontario creates memorable evening displays. Sun Outdoors Association Island delivers "Beautiful views... The views are beautiful 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." The western-facing sites typically command premium rates during peak season.
What you should know
Site conditions: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues during wet periods. At Southwick Beach State Park, "Unfortunately when we arrived at southwick the rangers & staff had all gone home so we were unable to get a map or check in... After it rained one night our site & others around us were completely flooded." Sites nearest water bodies typically drain more slowly.
Primitive camping limitations: For those seeking dispersed sites, options remain limited. At Winona State Forest, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp. There were some firewood set out except it was wet." These sites provide no amenities beyond fire rings.
Seasonal crowds: Population density varies dramatically between weekdays and weekends. At Yogi Bears Jellystone, "This is our 4th experience at a Jellystone. The campground was clean and staff was super nice. Organized the Halloween activities nicely... Smaller campground than others I have been too but made it nice for kids to rides bikes safely."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation programs: Children's activities vary by location. Selkirk Shores State Park offers structured programs where "they had a reptile exhibit with huge snakes and crocodiles, another day they had tie dyeing t-shirts, other days they had bingo(candy was the prize), exercises, and crafty things to make." Most programs run June through August.
Beach access considerations: Some beach areas have limited facilities. Brennan Beach Campground staff are "super nice. Probably some of the nicest campground staff we've met yet. A lot of locals camp here seasonally, and if you're not from around there, you'll stick out." Beach conditions fluctuate with lake levels.
Playground facilities: Dedicated children's areas enhance family stays. Sun Outdoors Association Island has "nice pool. Not a lot to do if you don't have a boat, but great for a short weekend." Consider bringing additional outdoor games and activities during shoulder seasons when organized activities may be limited.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites often come with varying hookup combinations. At Selkirk Shores, "This campground is 4 different loops- A loop is like the loop for people here for fishing, B loop is the mellower crowd, and C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups, no thanks." Request sites based on your preference for quiet or social atmosphere.
Hookup availability: Electric service predominates while full hookups are limited. One RVer at Streamside RV Park & Golf Course mentioned, "All sites are a back in site yet it was long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up. The sites are tight like most RV parks." Full hookup sites typically cost $5-15 more per night than electric-only sites.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations rather than full sewer connections. At Ontario Shores RV Park, a visitor found "A well kept quiet place... 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious." Plan water usage accordingly when staying at electric-only sites.
