Camping options near Ogdensburg, New York follow the St. Lawrence River's seasonal patterns, with most facilities operating May through October. The region experiences humid continental climate with summer highs averaging 78°F and winter lows dropping to 5°F. Local campgrounds must contend with frequent wind conditions from the river, particularly at waterfront sites where awnings and outdoor equipment require secure anchoring.
What to do
Fishing for river species: The St. Lawrence River offers prime fishing opportunities. At Eel Weir State Park Campground, visitors can catch various fish species from their campsites. "There's little undergrowth between sites for privacy but spacious sites makes up for it. We found a site on the edge for good privacy," notes Daniel L. The park includes accessible fishing spots along the shoreline and boat launch facilities.
Visit Thousand Islands attractions: Explore historic sites and natural areas throughout the region. Wellesley Island State Park Campground serves as a central base for regional exploration. "NYS may get tons of flack for its politics and politicians. However they're doing it all correct in their state parks. This park is amazing. The views of the ST. LAWRENCE River are amazing," writes John L. who recommends visiting Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and taking river cruises.
Hiking and nature observation: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the area's parks. At Cranberry Lake Campground, the extensive trail network offers varied terrain. "The main trailheads were a 2-minute walk from camp, and everything was very well maintained," says Ally B., who visited with dogs during Labor Day weekend.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at regional campgrounds. Jacques Cartier State Park Campground receives high marks for upkeep. "Jacques Cartier State Park is a model which most parks should follow. The park is unbelievably well kept," shares Scott F., who appreciated the large sites and waterfront options.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safe water access. Many visitors to Jacques Cartier enjoy the guarded beach area. "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it. They pick up your trash everyday, just leave by the road," explains Alycia M.
Waterfront sites: Campsites with river views rank as most popular options throughout the region. "We camped at site Bluejay 3. Very spacious and private. We reserved the site 3 days prior and still found most waterfront campsites already reserved," says Erin B. about her experience at Wellesley Island, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The St. Lawrence region experiences variable conditions, particularly affecting water activities. Wind can impact paddling and boating plans. At Swan Bay Resort, one camper observed: "I was hoping to spend a bit of time on my paddleboard but soon realized it is very windy here and found very few windows to paddle. Our neighbor (who has camped here seasonally for the last four years) mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind."
Reservation timing: Most popular sites require booking months in advance, especially for summer weekends. Waterfront sites at state parks typically fill first. Joseph B. notes about Jacques Cartier State Park: "Some sites were hilly and we would not have been able to get our trailer in, so its worth calling before you book."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. Prepare for limited connectivity at most campgrounds. Some parks have stronger signals than others. Daniel L. reports about Eel Weir State Park: "You can hear the clip clip of horses from the Amish buggys on the road across the river," indicating the rural nature of the area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with scheduled activities: Some facilities organize regular events. "They have lots of play areas for kids to play on, lovely beach area, lots of fun activities for the kids. We brought our bikes and were happily surprised to find they had a bike park. Fishing, fire truck rides," explains kala about her experience at Acres of wildlife Family campground.
Consider beach quality: Swimming areas vary in depth and bottom conditions. "The lake was perfect and the beach was great for little kids and big with very little seaweed," Charity B. shares about her experience at a nearby lake campground, noting the family-friendly water conditions.
Plan for weather variability: Temperature swings between day and night can require extra clothing layers. Kevin T. at Jacques Cartier Park warns: "I came here totally unprepared and ended up getting soaked. I didn't check the forecast and it started pouring. It gets really cold at night and the weather is unpredictable. It was hot and sunny and then cold and wet."
Tips from RVers
Consider site surface types: Different campgrounds offer various parking surfaces for RV camping near Ogdensburg. Riverside Campground in Brasher Falls provides full hookup sites. "Very nice campground. Beautiful river views. Very nice staff," notes Scott. The campground offers big-rig friendly sites with 50-amp service approximately 30 miles from Ogdensburg.
Factor in price ranges: RV site costs vary significantly based on amenities and location. Michael M. observed about Swan Bay Resort: "Now for the downside and it's only 1, this place is a bit pricey. What I spent here for 2 nights I could have stayed a week at a KOA, so I did pay for those beautiful river sunsets."
Check for off-season discounts: Some campgrounds offer significant savings outside peak summer months. Nancy W. shares: "Our site (#38) was a Passport America site so we got a great nightly rate of $42 which is half of the regular nightly rate. Our site was a 'standard site' near the pool, boat launch, activities, and Tiki Bar which surprised us because sites close to activities are usually desired and not discounted."
