Near Newark, New York, camping options range from secluded woodland sites to waterfront locations along the Erie Canal and Finger Lakes. The region sits at approximately 450 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Many campgrounds in the area operate from mid-April through October with rainfall patterns making spring camping occasionally muddy but ideal for wildflower viewing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Bluff RV Park, campers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing in the property's frog pond. "They do events for kids every weekend. If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!" notes Sara H., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere that extends to fishing activities.
Trail access: Webster Park provides extensive hiking options within minutes of your campsite. "There is hiking in the park, lots of nice woods, big field for playing games/sports," explains Scott C., who appreciates the trail access directly behind certain campsites. The park features woodland paths suitable for various skill levels.
Historical exploration: Visit the military museum at Sampson State Park to learn about its naval training base history from WWII. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," shares Brian O., adding that the park is "about 45 minutes from Rochester and about hr and half from Syracuse." The museum makes an excellent rainy day activity.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site selection impacts privacy significantly at campgrounds near Newark. At Junius Ponds, Kristine B. notes: "We stopped here for the night and it was very pretty, quiet, and clean. The roads are narrow and hilly, but we pull a 36' 5th wheel (mid-profile) and we had no issues with branches."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower cleanliness consistently receives positive mentions. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, Frank M. observed, "The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and came by our site twice to see if we needed anything, which was an unnecessary but pleasant surprise."
Water recreation: Lake access provides swimming and boating opportunities at several campgrounds. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," reports Colleen M. about Cayuga Lake State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal camper presence: Many campgrounds near Newark feature a high percentage of seasonal sites. At Junius Ponds, Ryan D. observed, "A would be beautiful campground is over run with seasonal campers and their golf carts. These fine folks never stop driving and take the time to walk and enjoy the the beauty of their surroundings."
Site levelness challenges: Finding level ground can be difficult at some locations. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Donna C. shared, "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. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity varies throughout the area. At Webster Park, Carl C. noted, "Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store (but the town of Webster is nearby)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with children. At Webster Park, Scott C. recommends, "We stay close to the playground these days in our pop up usually at site 5 so our 5 and 9 year old can walk or ride to campground."
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events. The Canandaigua-Rochester KOA receives high marks from Jenise P. who notes, "The bathrooms are very clean and the women working the desk could not have been more helpful," adding that despite not typically using KOA amenities, she found the experience very positive.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict speed limits to protect children. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Rachel T. points out, "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... 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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Webster Park, Janelle G. advises, "You need a long hose for fresh water in the RV. No sewer sites," despite giving the park high marks overall for its amenities and atmosphere.
Site access: For larger rigs, entrance challenges may exist. At Junius Ponds, Tina commented, "This was one of our favorite campgrounds of our cross country journey so far. We were in a long pull through near the front of the campground and it had a large grassy section to the side."
Dump station availability: Limited dumping facilities may cause delays during busy periods. At Sampson State Park, Amanda K. warns, "There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers. Only 2 dump stations."
