Cabin camping options extend throughout the Hammond region of New York's St. Lawrence River valley. Several state parks near Hammond accommodate campers with cabins, offering both waterfront and wooded settings. The region experiences temperature fluctuations with summer days averaging 75-85°F and nights dropping to 50-60°F, creating ideal conditions for extended outdoor stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Dewolf Point State Park offers excellent fishing access with multiple shoreline spots. As one camper notes, "Great spot for boating and fishing" while staying in the cabins that provide convenient water access.
Swimming with easy access: Jacques Cartier State Park features a guarded beach area perfect for families. A camper shares, "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it," making it ideal for combining water activities with land-based recreation.
Hiking through diverse terrain: The larger parks in the region contain trail systems suitable for day hiking. At Wellesley Island State Park, visitors can "follow the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas," according to one reviewer who recommends the nature center trails specifically.
Boating and paddling: The St. Lawrence River provides numerous access points for watercraft. At Eel Weir State Park, "There's a small boat launch area," perfect for canoes and kayaks, while the park's riverside location offers "unobstructed views" of the water.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Kring Point State Park receives praise for its location between two bodies of water. As one camper describes, "This site is on Goose Bay, but the sites across the road are on the St Lawrence River just a few hundred feet away," offering varied water views from nearly every site.
Privacy and space: Sites at many parks offer good separation. At Wellesley Island, "Very spacious and private" sites can be found, particularly in certain loops, with another reviewer noting many are "partially shady."
Clean facilities: Most parks maintain good standards for bathrooms and showers. A camper at Payne Lake Dispersed Site appreciates the natural setting while noting the lack of facilities: "Public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site," highlighting the primitive nature of dispersed sites compared to developed parks.
Nature viewing: Wildlife observation opportunities abound throughout the region. At Eel Weir State Park, campers enjoy the "family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night," creating memorable experiences beyond standard campground activities.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly. At Wellesley Island, campers report "most waterfront campsites already reserved" even three days prior to arrival in peak season.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. Across the St. Lawrence region, nights can be significantly cooler than days even in summer.
Site selection considerations: Some parks have sites with significant variation. At Eel Weir State Park, "There are 2 sites immediately on the river but many others with unobstructed views," allowing campers to choose based on priorities.
Access limitations: Several parks require boat transportation. Cedar Island State Park requires water transportation as "You need a boat to get here, making it one of our favorite places to camp in NY," according to a camper who appreciates the resulting seclusion.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer updated play areas. Jacques Cartier State Park has "a newer playground right next to" the beach area, creating a convenient recreation zone for children of different interests.
Beach selection: Swimming areas vary in amenities and supervision. Wellesley Island features "a nice beach" with "lots of playgrounds and swimming," according to reviewers who appreciate the family-friendly environment.
Activity planning: Special events occur at various parks throughout summer. At Swan Bay Resort, "They put on Octoberfest during our stay which featured a live band and food and craft vendors," showing how campground-organized activities can enhance family visits.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Hammond allow leashed pets. Jacques Cartier State Park campers note their pets enjoy the waterfront areas, and well-behaved dogs are welcome at most sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric services vary between parks and loops. At Jacques Cartier State Park, "Half the sites have electric and the balance are dry," requiring RVers to check specifications when booking.
Site leveling: Some parks offer more level spots than others. Eel Weir provides "grass sites with plenty of trees for shade" but some may require leveling blocks.
Access roads: Most state parks feature paved main roads with varying campsite surfaces. Swan Bay Resort offers "concrete pad and gravel in front" at sites, making it "easy in and out for big rigs."
Weather protection: The region experiences significant wind at times. At campgrounds along the St. Lawrence, campers advise, "Don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper and beware of winds if you want to be on the water," after experiencing damage to RV equipment.
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