Campers visiting Hammond, New York can access multiple waterfront camping options along both the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. The region typically experiences warm summers with highs in the 70-80°F range and cool evenings around 55-65°F. Late spring through early fall offers the prime camping season, with most parks operating from May through September or early October when water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming.
What to do
Kayaking on the St. Lawrence River: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Jacques Cartier State Park Campground where everyone swims, kayaks, and paddle boards off their sites. "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it. They pick up your trash everyday, just leave by the road," notes Alycia M.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple species available throughout the region's waterways. At Burnham Point State Park Campground, you can easily access the water. "Beautiful view of the river. Easy access to swim in the water... Boat launch. Plenty of tree to hang your hammock," shares John B.
Exploring local towns: Visit nearby Alexandria Bay for dining and entertainment, only 10 minutes from Swan Bay Resort. "Within walking distance is a Price Chopper Grocery, Dollar General, gas station, and wine and liquor store," explains Nancy W. The area also offers "plenty of restaurants and stores nearby."
Yurt camping options: While traditional camping dominates, yurt camping near Hammond, New York provides a comfortable alternative at parks like Long Point State Park, especially during cooler weather. Yurts offer solid protection from the region's variable weather conditions.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Sites directly on the water receive top praise. At Kring Point State Park Campground, "We've camped here every year but it's getting difficult to get in here... Goose bay on one side St Lawrence River on other. Every site is beautiful with rocks. But the rocks make it beautiful. We love sitting on a big rocks, watching sunsets and ships go by," says Laura H.
Clean facilities: Modern bathrooms with showers are consistently mentioned as standout amenities. "Brand new bathrooms with showers and two kitchen clean up stations are a short walk away. Every site has a fire ring with a grill and picnic table," notes Carol B. about Kring Point State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to see native animals. "Loons are calling, a mink scampered by on the flat rock shore 15' away with a fish in its mouth. This place is quiet and peaceful," reports Carol B. who stayed at Kring Point State Park.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. At Swan Bay Resort, visitors appreciate that it gets "quite dark at night, but that was a bonus as we were able to see the Milky Way!" according to Dawn L.
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Popular waterfront locations book far in advance. "Rocky (flat) but beautiful. Hard to get into because people book far in advance," warns Cindy T. about Kring Point State Park. Similar patterns exist across most waterfront campgrounds in the region.
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant, especially along Lake Ontario. At Long Point State Park Campground, "It can get quite windy on the point so take a wind break or shelter," advises Britt B. Storms can develop quickly over water bodies.
Variable site conditions: Some locations have challenging terrain or seasonal wet areas. At Long Point, one visitor reported "We arrived at Long Point to find out that the site is very wet. Gave us option on that site or 2 others. Took a different site and buried our class c up to rear axel," warns Carl G.
Yurt camping in Hammond: For those seeking structured shelter without a full RV, several parks offer yurt options. These provide solid protection from the elements while still maintaining a camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several parks have dedicated play areas for children. "Great place. Nice camp store. Access to the water great for boating and swimming," says Sara H. about Kring Point State Park, which also features "a playground, private bathrooms, boat launch, docks, beach and fishing."
Swimming beaches: Parks with designated swimming areas provide safer options for young swimmers. At Jacques Cartier State Park Campground, "Swimming hole was nice and relaxing. Plenty of sand for the kids to play in and the water was warmer than expected," according to Joseph B.
Activities for different ages: Choose parks with diverse recreational options. "We stayed in the non-electric loop with a small travel trailer and it was great. Half of the loop is in the woods and the other half has spacious, grassy sites bordered with woods behind them," notes Joseph B. about Jacques Cartier State Park.
Weekend entertainment: Some parks offer special events. "Pirates Weekend is very busy at the beginning of August, but well worth it," advises Matt G. about his experience at Kring Point State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research sites carefully before booking. At 1000 Islands Campground, "Our original site was listed at 55', but there was no way our 43' camper would fit, nor make the tight turn into it. The owner quickly moved us to another site and we're happy with the result," shares Bryan.
Seasonal considerations: Most parks in the region operate seasonally. "The campground is conveniently located near many of the attractions," notes Kathi V. about 1000 Islands Campground, which operates from "mid May to mid October."
Concrete pad advantages: Some resorts offer upgraded parking surfaces. At Swan Bay Resort, "All of there sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is riverviews from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river," notes Michael M.
Wind protection for awnings: Due to the waterfront location, protect your equipment. One visitor at Swan Bay Resort "mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper and beware of winds if you want to be on the water," warns Nancy W.
