Camping spots near Penfield, New York primarily attract visitors from April through October when temperatures average 65-75°F during peak season. The region sits at approximately 400-500 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by glacial drumlins and eskers formed during the last ice age. Most campgrounds in the area enforce quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM, with strict fire safety regulations due to the mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Lake access activities: At Hamlin Beach State Park Campground, located 30 miles northwest of Penfield, visitors can enjoy both rocky and sandy shorelines along Lake Ontario. "For the boating enthusist there is a well designed boat launch. Not only is there great fishing off the piers into Lake Ontario but there is a pond easily accessed for most to fish for trout, bass, and other fresh water species," notes Brian O.
Hiking opportunities: The area offers various trail systems connecting campsites to natural features. "There is hiking in the park, lots of nice woods, big field for playing games/sports," explains Scott C. about Webster Park. Many trails are rated easy to moderate, making them accessible for most fitness levels.
Seasonal events: Letchworth State Park hosts special events throughout the camping season. "Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can," recommends Rebecca E. The festival typically runs for three days and features dozens of hot air balloons, with morning and evening launches when winds are calmest.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the well-designed layout at Monroe County Webster Park. Cedric B. notes, "The sites are large and accommodating. It's clean, and that you have more privacy than other sites I've been to." This setup allows for a more secluded camping experience despite being relatively close to urban areas.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently receives positive mentions across multiple Penfield area locations. At Webster Park, Joseph W. reports, "There was good separation between the campsites and the bathrooms and showers were clean. Wasn't too far from a park along Ontario. Overall a great stay!" Most campgrounds provide hot showers and flush toilets with regular maintenance schedules.
Value for money: Compared to other regions, camping near Penfield offers reasonable rates. "This is a nice little park. I've stayed four times in 2021, for a much as 2 weeks at a time," shares Carl C. about Webster Park, though noting it's "a little pricier than state campgrounds." Most sites range from $25-45 per night depending on hookups and location.
What you should know
Cell reception varies: Connectivity can be inconsistent throughout camping areas near Penfield. At Webster Park, Carl C. points out, "Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store (but the town of Webster is nearby)."
Weather considerations: The region experiences typical northeastern weather patterns. Craig J. cautions about conditions at Monroe County Webster Park: "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." Spring camping often means dealing with wet ground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning, particularly for weekend stays. At Southwoods RV Resort, Nancy W. explains, "We experienced the park going from half full and quiet to packed with lots of music, all-day fires, and big gatherings." Booking 2-3 months ahead is recommended for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When selecting a site with children, consider distance to play areas. At Webster Park, catherine shares, "I absolutely loved my time here with my son! Camp sites are private and have everything you need for tent camping! Showers and bathrooms clean! Sink available for dishes. Playground. Lots of beautiful trails!"
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events for children. "Southwoods is a beautiful campground and accommodates campers of all ages. 2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball," reports Hope C. Most family-oriented activities occur on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Loop camping with kids: Some parks feature loop designs that work well for families with bicycles. "The campground is very quiet and very kid friendly to allow them to walk around and ride or scooter the loop alone," notes Scott C. about Webster Park. Most loop roads have 5-10 mph speed limits strictly enforced for child safety.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifications: RVers should verify exact hookup configurations before booking. At Stay Bristol Woodlands, jody M. found, "Site was level and well equipped (waste water disposal attach site!)." This campground offers full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections.
Site leveling considerations: Many campsites in the region require some leveling. Nancy W. observed at Southwoods RV Resort, "All campsite pads are gravel except for three long pull-thrus that are paved (M24-M26)." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended as many sites have slight slopes.
Water access logistics: Water hookups may require extra equipment. Janelle G. notes about Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, "You need a long hose for fresh water in the RV. No sewer sites." Most campgrounds have water spigots within 50-100 feet of sites, but hose lengths of at least 50 feet are recommended.
