The Lorraine area rests along eastern Lake Ontario with sandy beaches and wooded camping areas. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer brings moderate 70-80°F days with occasional lake effect weather patterns. Lake Ontario's influence creates stronger winds than inland campgrounds, particularly at waterfront sites.
What to do
Lake fishing opportunities: Sun Outdoors Association Island provides excellent fishing access directly from waterfront campsites. "Fishing was fun…lots of places to go to fish and the scenery was awesome," notes reviewer Tracey G., who adds that the campground is "within an hours drive of lots of cute, small river towns with tons of ambiance."
Kayaking from campsites: Waterfront sites at Sun Outdoors Association Island allow direct water access. "We were able to 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," reports Donna C., highlighting the convenience for paddlers.
Hiking nearby: Selkirk Shores State Park Campground offers hiking trails that connect to Lake Ontario shoreline. "They have nice hiking/biking trails," mentions Carrie N., making it suitable for day excursions while camping.
Beach exploration: The expansive shoreline at Lake Ontario provides numerous walking opportunities. "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever," says Theresa F. about Southwick Beach State Park Campground, noting its spacious natural beach area.
What campers like
Sunset views: Campers consistently mention Lake Ontario's spectacular sunsets as a highlight. "We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. The stars were everywhere," shares Donna C. about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Wildlife watching: The natural setting attracts various wildlife species. Zen W. notes that Selkirk Shores State Park Campground is "just as good for tents with wildlife nosing around," providing opportunities for nature observation.
Recreational programs: Some campgrounds offer organized activities for guests. Colleen S. mentions that Selkirk Shores has "a great recreation program for the kids. While we were there 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."
Winter activities: Winona Forest CCC Camp serves as a hub for cold-weather recreation. "This is a hub for several snow mobile, cross country ski, and snow shoe trails. Several folks visited on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the last bit of the snow," reports Quade S.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Lake Ontario creates distinct weather patterns. "Got to the park on Friday night with storms looming about. Our fire out was underwater. Lake Ontario was so high, there was barely any beach, and the wind was insane," warns Gabrielle C. about Southwick Beach State Park Campground.
Campground layout variations: Different camping loops offer distinct experiences. Laura M. explains about 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."
Self-sufficient camping needs: Some campgrounds require campers to bring all supplies. Quade S. notes about Winona Forest CCC Camp: "If you camp here, you need to be self sufficient as there is no running water or electricity. There is a dollar general about 15 minutes away if you need some supplies."
Bug preparation: Lake Ontario camping can involve significant insect activity. "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario," warns Tracey G. about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Westcott Beach State Park Campground offers recreational facilities for children. "Nice new children's playground. Nice hiking trail as well," mentions Theresa F., making it suitable for families with young children.
Kid-friendly beach areas: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Lorraine feature shallow water access points. "The beach is nice but can get crowded," notes cheyenne about Westcott Beach State Park Campground, suggesting families arrive early to secure space.
Site selection strategy: Choose camping areas based on desired atmosphere. "This campground is 4 different loops... C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups, no thanks," advises Laura M. about Selkirk Shores, recommending loop B for "the mellower crowd."
Swimming options: Beyond beaches, some campgrounds offer pools. Becky mentions that Brennan Beach Campground has "Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants. Spent time at the beach which is also very nice," providing alternate swimming options on windy days.
Tips from RVers
Waterfront RV parking: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Lorraine allow RVs direct water access. "Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario," describes Donna C. about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Full hookup availability: Ontario Shores RV Park offers comprehensive RV services. Tim W. notes: "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious. Open field to walk the dog or for children."
Check-in assistance: Some staff help with RV positioning. Robert M. mentions about Brennan Beach Campground: "Very large I believe it's 1300+ sites. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful," which benefits RVers navigating large facilities.
Site spacing considerations: Space between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are close together, but kind of what is expected at an RV resort," notes Becky about Brennan Beach Campground, contrasting with Tim W.'s observation that Ontario Shores RV Park sites are "level and spacious."
Scout
