Oswego County campgrounds occupy the shoreline of eastern Lake Ontario, where summer temperatures average 76-80°F and winter lows drop to 14-17°F with lake-effect snowfall. The lake's influence creates a moderate climate with lower humidity compared to inland sites. Most campgrounds close from November through April due to harsh winter conditions, with snow accumulations exceeding 110 inches annually in some locations.
What to do
Salmon River Falls access: Located just 15 minutes from Brennan Beach Campground, this natural attraction features a 110-foot waterfall. "One staff member Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a 'must see' while there," notes Robert M., who visited in late summer.
Waterfront kayaking: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for paddlers. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, "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," according to Donna C.
Golf course access: Some RV parks provide golfing opportunities for visitors. Streamside RV Park features a 12-hole golf course surrounding the campground. As B M. observed, "There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground" with "a bar that serves food called Divots."
What campers like
Waterfront views: The eastern Lake Ontario shoreline offers memorable sunsets. At Ontario Shores RV Park, Tim W. noted, "Lake Ontario a short walk away, the lake level flooding a few yrs ago ruined the sandy beach, but it's still a great view."
Level sites: Finding level parking at some locations can be challenging. One reviewer noted Streamside RV Park has back-in sites "long enough for us to stay hooked up" while others may present difficulties. According to Donna C. at Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, "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."
Campground activities: Many parks offer scheduled events for guests. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Rachel T. mentions "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends."
What you should know
Seasonal population: Many Oswego-area campgrounds host large numbers of seasonal residents. At Lake Bluff RV Park, Keri observed the campground "isn't very big with lots of seasonsals." Similarly, at Streamside RV Park, B M. noted "There are a lot of seasonal campsites that have decks, nice furniture out at their spots. They all left Sunday afternoon yet the rigs stay there."
Weekend crowds: Holiday periods see significant increases in camper populations. Stacey C. noted of Sun Outdoors Association Island, "This campground was nice but very crowded. It was Memorial Day weekend but the spots were not very big."
Bug issues: Lake Ontario shoreline camping can involve significant insect activity. Tracey G. warned about Sun Outdoors Association Island: "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario. Be prepared to deal with this as we were not and had to vacuum inside the RV (ceilings, floors, walls) every night for about an hour to get rid of them inside."
Tips for camping with families
Speed limits: When camping with children, safety is a priority. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Rachel T. highlights that "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."
Recreational facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's spaces. Victoria mentioned of Woonton Family Farms, "Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy."
Demographic considerations: Not all parks are equally suitable for children. At Streamside RV Park, Paula G. notes, "Everyone here is a golfer and there are no children," making it better for adult-focused RV camping near Oswego, New York.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When RV camping near Oswego, choosing the right location makes a difference. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, Megan P. advises, "I definitely recommend the sunrise size. 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."
Check-in assistance: Some campgrounds provide personalized arrival support. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, Stacey C. appreciated that "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver."
Hookup considerations: RV campers should note electrical service variations between parks. Ontario Shores RV Park features "7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio," according to Tim W., who paid $37.50 for a night with full hookups at Streamside RV Park.
