Tent camping sites near Ogdensburg, New York primarily concentrate along the St. Lawrence Seaway, with many locations requiring boat access. The region experiences seasonal operation patterns, with most campgrounds open from late May through early September. Winter temperatures in the area frequently drop below freezing, making camping a strictly warm-weather activity in this part of northern New York.
What to do
Water exploration: Experience the Thousand Islands region by boat at Cedar Island State Park Campground. This island camping destination requires water transportation to access, creating a natural barrier that limits crowds. A camper notes: "The first time we went here we didn't realize you need a boat to get to the campsite, luckily some other visitors gave us a ride."
Island hopping: Use a campsite as a base for exploring multiple islands. The Thousand Islands region contains over 1,800 islands scattered across the St. Lawrence River, creating opportunities for day trips from established campsites. Paddlers can reach smaller, uninhabited islands for picnicking or swimming.
Fishing: Catch smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskellunge in the St. Lawrence River. The waterways surrounding Ogdensburg and extending throughout the region support diverse fish populations. Morning and evening fishing typically yields the best results during summer camping months.
What campers like
Seclusion: Mary Island State Park Campground offers remarkably private sites despite being on a relatively small island. One camper emphasizes this isolation: "You can only get to it by boat. How awesome!? Every site is far away from the next and each has its own unique and beautiful view of the water and surrounding islands."
Basic amenities: Most island camping sites maintain simple facilities that support an authentic outdoor experience. While amenities vary between locations, island sites typically provide only essential services. A Cedar Island visitor mentions: "Basic sites, clean and very well kept. Don't think about it, just book this site."
Waterfront views: Nearly all tent camping sites offer direct water access or views. The geography of the Thousand Islands region ensures most campsites have proximity to water. One visitor to Cedar Island describes: "Be sure to take in the sunrise/set while there."
What you should know
Boat access requirements: Canoe Point State Park Campground and other island locations demand water transportation planning. Despite its name, Canoe Point presents challenges for paddlers. As one reviewer learned: "According to the staff person there who swore in disbelief that a canoe actually made it to the island, he didn't remember there being a canoe there before. The lack of arrival space for canoes also made this clear."
Limited supplies: Bring all necessities when camping on islands. Many locations have minimal or no opportunities to purchase forgotten supplies. Food, water, and emergency items should be packed with redundancy.
Weather variability: Summer storms can develop quickly on the St. Lawrence River. Wind conditions may change rapidly, potentially delaying return trips from island camping locations. Water-resistant gear storage is essential for the best tent camping near Ogdensburg, New York.
Tips for camping with families
Ferry schedules: Check boat transportation timing when planning family camping trips to Back Bay Campground and other water-access sites. Some locations have limited transportation options with specific departure and arrival times that may not align with younger children's schedules.
Night noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience variable noise levels from boating parties. When selecting tent camping near Ogdensburg with children, research each location's typical atmosphere. One Canoe Point camper reported: "Everyone else who came were in basically large party-boats with multiple rooms for sleeping, though they set up tents (and didn't sleep until almost daybreak...it was loud, foul language the entire time)."
Swimming safety: Waterfront campsites require constant supervision for children. Most island camping locations lack designated swimming areas with lifeguards, creating potential safety concerns for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Limited island RV access: Most island camping near Ogdensburg accommodates tent camping only. The boat-access requirement for many campgrounds eliminates traditional RV camping options, though some visitors arrive via large houseboats that function similarly to RVs.
Mainland alternatives: Camp Wildwood and other nearby mainland options offer more conventional RV accessibility. These locations provide easier access while still positioning campers to explore the Thousand Islands region through day trips.
Seasonal availability: Book RV sites early for the limited operating season. The best tent camping near Ogdensburg operates within a narrow seasonal window, typically late May through early September, creating competition for available reservations, especially on summer weekends and holidays.
