Camping sites near Massena, New York offer diverse experiences along the St. Lawrence River and surrounding waterways, with seasonal operations typically running from May through early October. The region sits at around 200 feet elevation with a humid continental climate that brings warm summers and cold winters with lake-effect snow. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, making summer and early fall the primary camping seasons in this northern New York border region.
What to do
Water sports access: Robert Moses State Park Campground provides excellent boating opportunities with multiple water access points. A camper noted, "Beautiful state park with lots of services and ammenities. We didnt get a chance to see even half of it. The beach was huge and the staff friendly."
Ship watching: Visitors can observe commercial vessels passing through the Eisenhower Locks near Barnhart Island Camping Area. As one reviewer described, "Near the Eisenhower Locks which is nice to watch the ships come in."
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with designated beaches for families. At Higley Flow State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "Whether it's playing in the water or in the playground this place is awesome to bring your children. The showers and restrooms were kept very clean."
Cycling opportunities: Many campgrounds feature bike-friendly terrain and dedicated cycling areas. Paved campground roads provide safe riding environments for children, with one Coles Creek State Park camper noting, "We love Coles Creek because we have two little ones and they are all about riding their tricycles around the grounds. People drive super slow and watch for kids, so that's great."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: At Riverside Campground, campers appreciate direct river access. A visitor commented, "Owner's are great the rates low and the place clean and right on the river."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers at Higley Flow State Park Campground. One reviewer stated, "Absolutely perfect. Water views, cheap good firewood, big private sites and brand new bathhouses."
Family activities: Pine Ridge Park Campsite offers organized events throughout the camping season. A camper shared, "If you are looking for a place to camp and have a good time, this is where you want to be. Children are safe and can enjoy the outdoors. Many events for adults and children."
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife viewing opportunities, especially bird watching. At Coles Creek State Park, campers can watch ships pass while enjoying nature. One visitor remarked, "This campground is fun! It's huge and flat and sits on the St. Lawrence Seaway! You get to see ships sail by! It's beautiful and quiet too!"
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots than others. At Coles Creek State Park Campground, a camper observed, "Sites are tightly packed and a lot is in open areas where you're camping with all of your neighbors, good or bad."
Cell service considerations: Cell reception can be inconsistent, with signals sometimes connecting to Canadian towers. One visitor to Barnhart Island cautioned, "I have read that Verizon has good service there but my AT&T service was not good and kept bouncing off Canadian towers so be careful!"
Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Coles Creek advised, "There are some waterfront sites that are beautiful but we have been unable to get them because they are highly sought after."
Weather variability: Even during summer months, temperatures can fluctuate significantly. A Rollins Pond visitor warned, "I would caution going prior to June unless you are prepared for varying weather. I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Robert Moses State Park Campground features multiple play areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "This park is usually busy all year round. Good for kids, has people come through during the night to quiet camps down. Very nicely kept and clean."
Kid-friendly biking: Flat terrain at many campgrounds makes for safe cycling experiences. A Coles Creek camper noted, "We love Coles Creek because we have two little ones and they are all about riding their tricycles around the grounds. People drive super slow and watch for kids."
Scheduled activities: Pine Ridge Park Campsite organizes regular events specifically for children. A seasonal camper shared, "This campground has the best staff you can find in northern New York. The whole time they are open they have activities planned for the kids all summer long."
Cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, several campgrounds offer cabin rentals. At Babbling Brook RV Park, cabins provide riverside accommodations without the need for tent setup, with a visitor simply stating, "This place is a paradise. Located near river."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Riverside Campground offers water, electric and sewer connections. A camper noted, "Very nice campground. Beautiful river views. Very nice staff."
Dumping stations: Most state parks provide sanitary dumping facilities, though they may require driving to a central location. Rollins Pond has this arrangement, with a camper observing, "No hookups, so a bit trickier for rv's, but being right on the water makes it worth it."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. A visitor to Higley Flow reported, "Really nice sites that are private and easy to back into," while another noted, "Those sites are large and wooded, most all paved (not always very level!)."
Winter storage options: Most campgrounds in the area close for winter, requiring RV removal. Seasonal considerations significantly impact availability, with a Riverside Campground visitor noting, "Very pleased with this campground over all. Area, location, etc. Summers are beautiful winter are terrible."
