RV camping near Manlius, New York offers options for travelers seeking both natural settings and convenient amenities. The region, located in Central New York's glacial landscape, receives approximately 40 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to the area's cold winters and significant snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ontario Shores RV Park in Pulaski provides easy access to Lake Ontario, though recent flooding has affected beach conditions. "Lake Ontario a short walk away, the lake level flooding a few yrs ago ruined the sandy beach, but it's still a great view," notes Tim W., who spent four nights in a motorhome at Ontario Shores RV Park.
Golfing access: Streamside RV Park includes a 12-hole golf course surrounding the campground area. "There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground," explains a visitor. The campground primarily attracts adult golf enthusiasts as Paula G. observes, "Everyone here is a golfer and there are no children."
Hiking trails: The Chenango Canal trail provides historical walking opportunities near Butternut Hill RV Campground. "The campground is adjacent to the festival fields, lining a forest edge with expansive views of the surrounding valley... with access to some hiking and fishing spots in close proximity," shares Janet R., who visited during a local festival.
What campers like
Festival access: Butternut Hill hosts multiple special events throughout summer months. "The meadows and fields of Butternut Hill are the superb festival setting for several regional events, including several Antique shows, the Central New York Fiber Festival, a craft fair and a car show," reports a camper who appreciated the event proximity.
Stargazing conditions: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers," shares Jessica D. about her experiences at The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Convenient shuttles: Casino access is facilitated through transportation services. "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," notes April L., highlighting the balance between accessibility and tranquility.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Brennan Beach Campground offers waterfront camping with varying site privacy. "Sites are close together, but kind of what is expected at an RV resort," explains Becky, who visited with family. Conversely, Thomas R. noted his tent site had "zero privacy" with "about 10 yards to the next campsite."
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks near some campgrounds can create periodic disturbances. One visitor to Treasure Isle RV Park appreciated that it's "nice and quite" with "sites a good size with water and electric on each site," while noting the park maintains facilities including "a nice bathhouse, playground, basketball court, Beach and walking trails."
Limited tent options: Most facilities cater primarily to RV campers with few dedicated tent sites. Woonton Family Farms offers a distinctive alternative with its rustic farm setting, as one international visitor described: "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner."
Tips for camping with families
Consider recreational facilities: Look for campgrounds with specific kid-friendly amenities. The Villages RV Park provides "excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool," according to Michael O., making it suitable for family camping near Manlius.
Beach access planning: Brennan Beach Campground offers Lake Ontario shoreline with family-friendly facilities. "Spent 3 nights with our 2 sons and my husbands 2 granddaughters, all under age 12. Bathrooms/showers were clean... Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants. Spent time at the beach which is also very nice," shares Becky.
Pet policies: Check specific rules regarding dogs at beach areas and common spaces. One reviewer noted restrictions at certain lakefront areas, requiring pets to be kept away from swimming zones.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At The Villages RV Park, consider location preferences based on noise tolerance. "You'll want to stay towards the south / front of the park if this kind of thing bothers you," advises a motorhome owner regarding train noise.
Pricing variations: Camping costs range from $37.50 for full hookups at smaller facilities to $70 for premium locations. A visitor to Streamside noted, "We paid $37.50 for a one night stay. That is a good price for full hook up."
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Many Woonton Family Farms sites maintain permanent setups while owners travel. "There are a lot of seasonal campsites that have decks, nice furniture out at their spots. They all left Sunday afternoon yet the rigs stay there," observed one traveler passing through the area.
