Camping in Pulaski, New York offers access to Lake Ontario's eastern shore, where the climate features warm summers with average highs of 80°F and cold winters that bring over 120 inches of annual snowfall. The region sits at approximately 387 feet above sea level with sandy beaches and rocky shorelines dominating the lakefront camping areas. Most Pulaski campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Salmon River near Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico provides excellent salmon fishing, particularly in fall. "This is our 4th experience at a Jellystone. For the fisherman, it's located on Salmon River and appears to have quite a lot of large salmon this time of year. I was shocked at the size of the fish that were being cleaned," notes Justin F.
Kayaking and water activities: The rivers and lake access points throughout the region offer kayaking opportunities. At Delta Lake State Park Campground, campers enjoy water-based exploration: "Having the kayaks were great, there's so much to explore, and town is right down the road," reports Sierra K.
Hiking trails: The surrounding parks feature walking paths with varied terrain. Green Lakes State Park Campground offers "an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes," according to Sheri S., making it suitable for day trips from Pulaski.
What campers like
Beach access: The Lake Ontario shoreline provides swimming and relaxation spots. At Southwick Beach State Park Campground, "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever-campsites roomy and we'll taken care of," says Theresa F. The beach areas are particularly popular during summer months.
Private bathrooms: Several campgrounds have updated their facilities. Green Lakes State Park features "private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," explains Sheri S., providing comfort not always found at public campgrounds.
Yurt camping options: While traditional tent and RV camping dominate, yurt camping near Pulaski, New York provides alternative accommodations. One option for yurt camping in the Pulaski, New York area is at Bass Lake Resort, where the glamping accommodations include "safari tent accommodations with heated floors and private bathrooms," making them usable even in cooler weather.
What you should know
Site conditions vary by loop: Campgrounds often have distinctly different areas. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, "We stayed at our site(#G07) was on the sunset-side of the island and the last of the row beside a walking trail. It was wooded, roomy, and has full hookups, a fire ring, and picnic table," reports Matt S.
Weather considerations: Lake Ontario creates unique weather patterns. "It got really windy at night which was nice to keep the bugs away," notes Tris W. about Delta Lake State Park. The lakeside locations can experience sudden weather changes.
Reservation planning: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Southwick Beach State Park fills particularly fast, with a camper noting, "Unfortunately when we arrived at southwick the rangers & staff had all gone home so we were unable to get a map or check in."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with structured programs for children. Yogi Bears Jellystone Park has "So much to do here for the little ones, and so much beauty to soak in for us older ones! So many activities for the kids, a great pool, mini-golf, parades, just non stop action to keep them going and tire them out!" according to Michael O.
Beach safety: Lakefront camping provides swimming opportunities with varying safety measures. Southwick Beach has "life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," shares Brian O. about nearby Delta Lake.
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. Ontario Shores RV Park has "Open field to walk the dog or for children," mentions Tim W., providing space for kids to run around safely.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electrical access varies between campgrounds. At Southwick Beach, a camper notes "All sites are electric, some are 30 and some are 50amp," making it suitable for various RV power requirements.
Pull-through sites: Ontario Shores RV Park offers "7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious," according to Tim W., making them ideal for larger RVs that need easier access.
Seasonal considerations: Many RV sites have limited seasonal availability. "Campgrounds are great. Only deducted a star because of the weather. Got to the park on Friday night with storms looming about. Our fire out was underwater. Lake Ontario was so high, there was barely any beach, and the wind was insane," reports Gabrielle C. about the early season conditions at Southwick Beach.
