RV campsites near Redwood, New York offer varied experiences along the St. Lawrence River and surrounding waterways. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh winter conditions. The area features numerous waterfront camping opportunities with easy access to boating, fishing, and water recreation activities.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Cranberry Lake Campground, kayaking on the lake is a popular activity. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking. While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campground itself, they are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" advises one visitor.
Fishing adventures: The St. Lawrence River region offers excellent fishing conditions. At Jacques Cartier State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy both shoreline and boat fishing. "A boat launch in the park may it easy for boaters. A beach/swimming area is great for the whole family," notes one reviewer who rated the park 5 stars.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature walking paths and nature trails. "The hike up and around Bear Mountain was a good workout and fun experience for our whole family (littlest is 6)," shares one camper about Cranberry Lake. The trails range from easy lakeside walks to more challenging terrain in the Adirondack foothills.
What campers like
Waterfront views: The sunset vistas are highly rated by campers at Burnham Point State Park Campground. "Beautiful view of the river. Easy access to swim in the water. Very clean bathrooms. Electric site with water," states one review, highlighting the park's river access.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is consistently mentioned in positive reviews. "The bathrooms are clean, and there is plenty of hot water!" writes one camper about Cranberry Lake. Another notes about Burnham Point: "Campsite is very clean and peaceful. Bugs are a minimum. Bathrooms are great- showers with nice and hot water."
Spacious sites: Many RV sites near Redwood provide generous spacing. At Wellesley Island State Park Campground, "Large open sites with not much shade but it is the only loop that gets US Verizon service. Marina on site along with a nice Nature Center and miles of hiking trails by the water."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind can be a significant factor when camping near the St. Lawrence River. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, one camper warns: "Will certainly be back! Campsite is very clean and peaceful. Bugs are a minimum. Bathrooms are great- showers with nice and hot water. Down sides- lake front campsites are all on a slope- minimum flat space. Also- depending on day- EXTREMELY VERY WINDY AND COLD!"
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), most campgrounds fill quickly. "You'll definitely need to plan ahead and make reservations if you plan to be here during the crazy season," advises a Cranberry Lake visitor.
Site selection: When booking, review site maps carefully. "I will say do your homework, check out the site photos which you can easily find online. Get a waterfront site but be aware the privacy isn't great at many sites," recommends a Cranberry Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Families with children should look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. Jacques Cartier State Park features "a guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it."
Recreation amenities: Fort Drum Recreation Area offers various family-friendly options. "They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones. It is easy to get to and several forms of outdoor entertainment," mentions a military family who visited.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds offer community fire pits and gathering spaces. "In between the pools is a community fire pit with nice Adirondack chairs which is pretty cool. The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore," describes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Tips from RVers
Site surface types: RV campers should note the surface types when booking. "Our site (#38) was a 'standard site' near the pool, boat launch, activities, and Tiki Bar. Most sites do not have shade but they added a new section that does have some old mature trees and sporadic shade. All the sites are the same in that they have paved parking areas with gravel in front, pavers for a patio and full hook-up," explains a visitor to Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Wind protection: RVers should secure awnings due to strong winds along the water. "Our neighbor (who has camped here seasonally for the last four years) 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," cautions an RVer at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Seasonal utilities: Most RV sites near Redwood, New York offer full hookups but operate seasonally. At Wellesley Island State Park, "All roads are paved with grass and gravel sites. We were on site H33 in the Heron Loop with 30A electric. There are water spigots around the loop to fill up your fresh tank before setting your jacks."