Camping spots near Mannsville, New York provide access to Lake Ontario's southeastern shoreline, with most campgrounds situated within a 15-mile radius of the village. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 80°F, with cooling lake breezes moderating the climate even on hot days. Water levels on Lake Ontario can fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and shoreline camping sites.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Ontario: Access prime fishing spots at Brennans Bay Campground and Marina, which offers direct water access. "A great park on Sandy Pond and Lake Ontario... Great area for fishing, bass, trout, salmon and walleye," notes a camper. The marina makes it convenient for boat owners.
Winter recreation: Explore winter camping options at Winona Forest CCC Camp when snow blankets the region. "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 one visitor who appreciated the quiet trails.
Beach exploration: Walk the extensive shoreline at Sun Outdoors Association Island. "Beautiful views... Going across to the island is so fun and feels so special. The views are beautiful," shares one camper. The island location creates unique sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities from different shorelines.
What campers like
Lake Ontario sunsets: Enjoy remarkable evening views from lakeside sites at Selkirk Shores State Park Campground. "Cabins have a screen and a stone fireplace. Lake Ontario has great fishing. The beach is smaller than it was before now that it is guarded," reports one visitor. The cabins offer alternatives to tent camping.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at Westcott Beach State Park Campground. "We always camp in the plateau across the road from the main park area-sites are huge, clean bathrooms and a nice park right in the circle," shares one regular visitor who finds this location ideal for repeat stays.
Family activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico offers structured programs for children. "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, Bike parades," explains one satisfied camper who visits at least twice yearly.
What you should know
Site flooding concerns: After heavy rains, some campgrounds experience drainage issues. "After it rained one night our site & others around us were completely flooded. The beach area & bathhouses were nice though," reported one camper at Southwick Beach State Park.
Primitive camping options: Winona State Forest offers minimal amenities but greater solitude. "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp," notes one visitor who appreciated the quiet setting despite wet firewood.
Wind exposure: Lake Ontario weather can create challenging camping conditions. "Campgrounds are great. Only deducted a star because of the weather. Got to the park on Friday night with storms looming about. Our fire pit was underwater. Lake Ontario was so high, there was barely any beach, and the wind was insane," reported one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection by loop: Different camping sections cater to different crowds. "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." Understanding loop differences helps choose appropriately.
River recreation options: Some campgrounds feature river access rather than lake frontage. "The kids had a blast playing in the river, heck the adults had fun too. Camp sites were good size and easy to access," reports one visitor about Jellystone Park, where water activities don't require lake access.
Playground proximity consideration: When camping with children at state parks, sites near play areas fill quickly. "Nice new children's playground. Nice hiking trail as well," notes one camper about Westcott Beach State Park, where the plateau camping area includes a centrally located play area.
Tips from RVers
Island camping access: Sun Outdoors Association Island requires crossing a causeway. "The approach by way of a single lane bridge to the island is beautiful. Once on the island, it's obvious that this is a great place for retreat," explains one RVer who appreciated the seclusion despite the 37-foot motorhome access.
Site spacing varies: Ontario Shores RV Park offers more generous sites than some neighboring options. "A well kept quiet place. The seasonal campers are friendly. There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio. Sites are level and spacious," reports an RVer who stayed four nights.
Arrival assistance: Some parks provide setup help for larger rigs. "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver," notes one camper about the staff assistance that made a crowded holiday weekend more manageable.
