Camping opportunities near Phoenix, New York center around Lake Ontario and smaller inland lakes with varied terrain. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with most campgrounds closed during winter months due to the region's significant snowfall. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F while spring and fall can fluctuate between 45-65°F, requiring campers to pack layers.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on Oneida Lake: At Oneida Shores County Park, visitors can enjoy both freshwater activities. "The beach area is nice and clean. Life guards around. Nice playground and bathrooms available," reports Sara H. The park offers convenient water access for fishing enthusiasts.
Swimming in glacier-formed lakes: Green Lakes State Park Campground features distinctive turquoise waters. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," notes Kenneth S. Swimming is available at the beach with lifeguards on duty.
Hiking wooded trails: Fair Haven Beach State Park provides multiple trail options with Lake Ontario views. "What I really loved is how far into the park the camping is, you're really surrounded by woods. There is also excellent and easy access to Lake Ontario," writes Layla P. The park maintains well-marked trails suitable for different skill levels.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Green Lakes State Park gets high marks for its bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," explains Sheri S. This privacy feature separates it from many other public campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: Selkirk Shores State Park Campground attracts anglers to Lake Ontario. "Cabins have a screen and a stone fireplace. Lake Ontario has great fishing," states Zen W. The park provides shore fishing access and boat launch facilities.
Beach access: Bluff Camping Area at Fair Haven Beach State Park offers direct lake access. "Very clean, well kept campground. Campsites are spacious and shady. Nice playground for kids. Access to park trails. A very nice sand beach on the lake," mentions Kim L. Sites on the bluff provide panoramic lake views.
What you should know
Site conditions vary by loop: State parks often have distinct camping areas. "This campground is 4 different loops- A loop is like the loop for people here for fishing, B loop is the mellower crowd, and C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups," explains Laura M. about Selkirk Shores State Park Campground.
Limited recycling options: Most campgrounds have basic waste disposal. "There are dumpsters here, and there's recycling for redeemable bottles and cans only, with proceeds going to the campground's rec center," notes Laura M. Campers should plan to pack out most recyclables.
Pet documentation required: "NY State campgrounds require proof of rabies vaccinations for your dogs," warns Laura M. Bring vaccination records for any pets accompanying you to state-operated campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park offers organized programs for children. "So much to do here for the little ones, and so much beauty to soak in for us older ones! The staff here is excellent," says Michael O. Activities include parades, mini-golf, and character meet-ups.
Beach safety: Most lakefront campgrounds maintain guarded swimming areas. "The beach is nice and guarded," notes Zen W. about Selkirk Shores. Supervised beach areas typically operate from late June through Labor Day weekend.
Playgrounds and recreation: Many of the best places to camp near Phoenix, New York include play facilities. "Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun," says Sara H. about Cross Lake Park Campgrounds. Most recreation areas are within walking distance of campsites.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups common: Pleasant Lake Campground provides various site types. "I found this location to have very clean sites with plenty of amenities. Had no issues with the Wi-Fi watching Bills games and play a few video games," mentions Ryan G. The campground maintains reliable electric service for digital needs.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Nice place to camp all electric no water hook ups bath house clean but could use more," notes Frank W. about Selkirk Shores State Park. Most campgrounds near Phoenix operate from May through mid-October.
Site drainage after rain: Some campgrounds have drainage issues. "The sites were muddy, especially when it had recently rained. Luckily we came after it rained and it had dried out some," reports Justin F. about Jellystone Park at Mexico. Consider requesting elevated sites when booking after rainy periods.
