Camping near Richland, New York typically runs from mid-May to mid-October with most campgrounds closing in early fall. The area's average summer temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, with water temperatures in Lake Ontario reaching the mid-70s by July. Local campsites sit at approximately 400 feet elevation, with the surrounding terrain featuring a mix of lakeside plains and gently rolling hills.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Selkirk Shores State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy direct access to Lake Ontario. According to camper Laura M., "This campground is 4 different loops... C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups... B loop is the mellower crowd." She advises choosing Loop B for a quieter experience.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers excellent fishing, particularly along the Salmon River. Sites at Southwick Beach State Park provide access to prime fishing spots. One camper mentions, "Lake Ontario has great fishing" with multiple species available throughout the season.
Trail exploration: Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels circle through many campgrounds in the area. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes," notes camper Sheri S. The park offers a unique ecosystem with distinctive water coloration.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Delta Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its waterfront camping options. Camper Sierra K. states, "Was here with a camper on a lake accessing site. Sites are fairly big but not completely separated. Having the kayaks were great, there's so much to explore, and town is right down the road."
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower buildings at many campgrounds receive positive mentions for cleanliness. At Green Lakes, Chelsea B. notes, "The sites are good, level, and the campsite is pretty but as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck... It's best to use the ADA bathrooms because those shower heads are normal and have wands."
Sunset views: Lake Ontario camping spots provide exceptional sunset viewing. Carrie N. remarks about Southwick Beach State Park Campground, "Great place to watch the sun set. They have nice hiking/biking trails. The site are a little on the smaller side and it was a little crowded."
What you should know
Site selection strategy: The loop system at Selkirk Shores creates distinctly different camping experiences. Laura M. advises, "Sites 66 and 67 are the exception that we saw, they're off together to the side and would be good choice for two groups camping together... All sites are electric, some are 30 and some are 50amp."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially for premium sites. Expect to book 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends and holiday periods.
Weather considerations: Lake Ontario creates its own weather patterns, with sudden temperature changes and wind common. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, April L. notes, "Our site backed up to the water and although it was windy they thought ahead and built the fire pit up to block it."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico offers structured activities specifically for children. Camper Justin F. shared, "Organized the Halloween activities nicely. Yogi and the characters were very involved." The campground maintains scheduled events throughout the season.
Playground access: Many area campgrounds feature playgrounds for younger visitors. At Delta Lake State Park, one reviewer mentions they "have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach."
Recreation programs: Organized activities can help keep children engaged. Colleen S. notes that at Selkirk Shores, "They had a reptile exhibit with huge snakes and crocodiles, another day they had tie dyeing t-shirts, other days they had bingo(candy was the prize), exercises, and crafty things to make."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Brennan Beach Campground offers full hookup sites for larger rigs. Becky states, "Site we stayed at had full hook ups. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants. Spent time at the beach which is also very nice."
Pull-through sites: For easier access, several campgrounds offer pull-through sites. One camper at Ontario Shores RV Park notes, "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide sewer hookups at individual sites. Justin F. mentions about Yogi Bears Jellystone Park, "No sewer hookups available but does had a dump station on your way out."
