The Ontario, New York region offers camping from spring through fall with most sites closing by late October. Typical overnight temperatures during camping season range from 45°F in spring and fall to 65°F during summer months. Lake Ontario's proximity creates moderate temperature fluctuations, with shore breezes providing relief during humid summer days when daytime highs often reach the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking near Lake Ontario: Webster Park features numerous wooded trails connecting to the camping area. "The park itself is pretty small (swimming & picnic), lots to do nearby though (wineries, Shakespeare Festival, Jell-o Museum)," notes one Hamlin Beach State Park visitor, highlighting attractions within 30-45 minutes of most area campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, particularly during seasonal runs. "During the fall there is a huge salmon run where fish up to 30 lbs are caught regularly," reports a camper at Hamlin Beach, where both pier fishing and pond fishing are available for different species.
Beach recreation: Several campgrounds provide direct beach access. A visitor at Junius Ponds noted their site was "Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean. Hiking trails, kayaking, and lots of other fun activities." Swimming areas typically open from Memorial Day through early September with posted hours.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many area campgrounds feature wooded sites with adequate separation. "The sites in the loop we stayed in had about 75' between driveways, all with varying levels of trees/brush between them, very secluded," shares a camper from Hamlin Beach, contrasting with more densely arranged facilities in the region.
Family-friendly amenities: Canandaigua-Rochester KOA receives praise for its recreational facilities. "We've stayed at a lot of KOA sites over the years and this one is as pleasant as expected. It is an excellent campground for families," notes one visitor, adding that staff "came by our site twice to see if we needed anything."
Waterfront access: South Shore RV Park provides direct lake frontage, with one camper specifically mentioning "Amazing sunsets!" The park maintains a quiet atmosphere while offering "well maintained, clean bathhouse" facilities according to visitor reports.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. One Lake Bluff RV Park visitor noted: "Have been to lake buff twice this year and will definitely be back next year! The owners are so personable, accommodating and kind!" Many campgrounds advise booking 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Variable site conditions: Campground terrain varies significantly across the region. "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," reported a visitor at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, suggesting campers check site specifications before booking.
Weather considerations: Spring camping often involves wet conditions. One camper at Monroe County Webster Park observed: "We stayed 6 nights. There was an okay bathroom (a bit run down) and clean, separate hot showers nearby our site, but our site was muddy and numerous sites around us were muddy, too." Many campgrounds have better drainage by mid-summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature play areas near camping loops. A visitor at Webster Park shared: "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. We like site 1 as well." Campground maps typically indicate playground locations for site selection.
Kid-friendly rules: Speed limits and safety regulations vary between campgrounds. At Red's Twilight on the Erie, "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."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds schedule family programs during summer months. "Our first KOA stop, so can't compare to other KOAs, but this place has a good number of family activities and events. Our 3 and 5 year olds really enjoyed the jump pad and woods obstacles," reported a Canandaigua-Rochester KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Electric and water access varies between campgrounds. A Webster Park visitor noted: "The difference is 30a power and no water or sewer, 50a power and water, and 50a power and water/sewer. There is a dump station." Most parks offer a mix of hookup options at different price points.
Site dimensions: Larger rigs require careful site selection. One Letchworth State Park camper advised: "There are a wide variety of campsites, all reservable online, which can accommodate lots of different types of camping, large RV's, small tents, and everything in between. Most, if not all, campsites offer electrical and water is available close by."
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies across campgrounds and camping loops. At Junius Ponds, a visitor shared: "Well maintained and friendly staff. Clean facilities. Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups." Several campgrounds recommend bringing leveling blocks, particularly for spring camping.
