Situated in Oswego County, New York, Orwell experiences a four-season climate with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Average summer temperatures range between 65-75°F, creating ideal camping conditions from May through October. Most RV sites near Orwell, New York operate seasonally, with most parks closing by mid-October due to harsh winter weather patterns characteristic of this Lake Ontario region.
What to do
Lake swimming and beach access: The waterfront at Sun Outdoors Association Island offers multiple swimming opportunities. "We were able to drop our kayaks right in the water in front of our rig and paddle to our heart's content. The water is clear and cool," notes one visitor. The Lake Ontario beaches near campgrounds provide relief during summer months.
Golf and recreation: Travelers seeking both camping and golfing can find accommodations at Streamside RV Park & Golf Course in Pulaski. A camper reports, "This is a privately owned very nice campground! The owners take pride in their business and the grounds are meticulously kept. Everyone here is a golfer and there are no children." The 12-hole course surrounds the campground, making it convenient for RVers who enjoy golfing.
Local attractions exploration: Many campgrounds offer access to nearby points of interest. One visitor to the Pulaski area notes, "Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a must see while there. Basically 15 minutes from the campground." Mexico Point is another attraction within driving distance from several RV parks in the region.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Lakefront sites rank among the most popular camping spots near Orwell. At Treasure Isle RV Park, campers appreciate the setting, with one noting, "Treasure Isle is nice and quiet. The sites are a good size with water and electric on each site." These waterfront locations often feature spectacular sunsets over Lake Ontario.
Spacious sites: Many RV parks provide well-sized camping spots. At The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, visitors comment on the generous accommodations: "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins." Another visitor mentioned, "We had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A, and they even provided a small treat for our Schnauzer."
Family activities: Campgrounds in the region offer various recreational options. "Nice pool. Not a lot to do if you don't have a boat, but great for a short weekend," remarks one visitor about Sun Outdoors Association Island. At Treasure Isle RV Park, families enjoy "a nice bathhouse, playground, basketball court, Beach and walking trails."
What you should know
Limited off-season facilities: Most camping options near Orwell operate seasonally. "We went late summer so it was becoming offseason. Most amenities close down. Pool, swimming at Lake Ontario beach, etc.," explains a camper at Brennan Beach Campground. Visitors should verify which amenities remain available during late September and October.
Site differences: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "Sites are close together, but kind of what is expected at an RV resort," notes one visitor about Brennan Beach. Meanwhile, at Ontario Shores RV Park, "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious."
Local culture: Some campgrounds have established seasonal communities. At Brennan Beach, "A lot of locals camp here seasonally, and if you're not from around there, you'll stick out. We had a few awkward interactions but nothing serious. Mostly just funny." This can affect the experience for short-term visitors to RV camping areas around Orwell.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety awareness: When camping with children near Lake Ontario, monitor weather conditions. "Great location on the lake," notes a visitor to Ontario Shores RV Park, but adds that "the lake level flooding a few yrs ago ruined the sandy beach." Water conditions can change quickly on the Great Lakes.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. At The Villages RV Park, families enjoy "excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool," making it suitable for children of various ages. Treasure Isle RV Park also features playground equipment and courts for active kids.
Pet restrictions: Families traveling with pets should verify policies beforehand. "They don't allow dogs on the beach," reports a visitor about Brennan Beach Campground. Each property maintains different pet rules regarding beaches, pools, and common areas throughout the Orwell region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers recommend specific site areas at certain campgrounds. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, "The sunset is of course beautiful but sunrise sites are much bigger and can lead right to the water which is much nicer. It's a lot less windy and easier to be in the water." This can make a significant difference for larger rigs.
Hookup variations: Campground utilities differ across the area. At Woonton Family Farms, RVers find a more primitive experience with fewer hookups, as one visitor explains: "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner." Meanwhile, Streamside RV Park offers full hookups including electric, water, and sewer.
Wind conditions: RVers should prepare for Lake Ontario winds. "We faced a western view of Lake Ontario. We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night," notes a camper at Association Island, adding that the campground thoughtfully "built the fire pit up to block" the wind at lakeside sites.
