RV sites near Richland, New York sit along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario in Oswego County, where seasonal lake effect weather creates distinct camping seasons. The region experiences heavy snowfall in winter months, accumulating over 200 inches annually in some locations, which explains the May to October operational window for most campgrounds. Water access is a primary draw for campers visiting this area, with fishing opportunities in both Lake Ontario and nearby salmon-rich tributaries.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Henderson Harbor provides excellent access to Lake Ontario fishing. One visitor at Sun Outdoors Association Island noted, "Fishing was fun…lots of places to go to fish and the scenery was awesome." The site was previously known as 1000 Islands Association Island KOA.
Golfing: Multiple campgrounds offer golf access. The 12-hole course at Streamside RV Park & Golf Course surrounds the camping area. "We stopped here for a night going from Niagara Falls area to upper vermont. There is a 12 hole golf coarse that surrounds the campground," explains one camper. Green fees are separate from camping costs.
Water activities: Kayaking and swimming are popular at lakefront locations. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, campers appreciate direct water access: "We were able to drop our kayaks right in the water in front of our rig and paddle to our heart's content. The water is clear and cool."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Lake Ontario sunsets receive consistent praise from visitors. A camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island reported, "Sunsets were phenomenal! I mean, jaw dropping gorgeous." Many RV sites face directly toward the water for prime viewing.
Spacious sites: Ontario Shores RV Park offers concrete patio sites with room to spread out. A reviewer mentioned, "There are 7 overnight pull thru full hookup sites with concrete patio, Sites a level and spacious. Open field to walk the dog or for children."
Seasonal community: Many campgrounds host a mix of overnight and seasonal campers. At Treasure Isle RV Park, a visitor observed, "Owners and seasonals are very friendly, well maintained." The seasonal population creates a neighborhood-like atmosphere at many parks.
What you should know
Site accessibility: Most waterfront camping areas require advance planning. A camper at Brennan Beach Campground explained, "Very nice thousand trail campgrounds. Very large I believe it's 1300 + sites." The size means sites are available but locations vary in quality.
Weather considerations: Lake effect weather can be intense even in summer. Sun Outdoors Association Island visitors warn about winds: "The sunset is of course beautiful but sunrise sites are much bigger and can lead right to the water which is much nicer. It's a lot less windy and easier to be in the water."
Insect activity: Midges and mayflies can be problematic near the lake. One camper detailed their experience: "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario. Be prepared to deal with this as we were not and had to vacuum inside the RV every night for about an hour."
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated family areas: Some Richland area campgrounds have family-specific amenities. At Brennan Beach Campground, one family noted, "Spent 3 nights with our 2 sons and my husbands 2 granddaughters, all under age 12. Bathrooms/showers were clean. Site we stayed at had full hook ups. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants."
Water safety planning: Lake Ontario has changing conditions. Families should check weather forecasts before water activities. "Nice pool. Not a lot to do if you don't have a boat, but great for a short weekend," observed a visitor about Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Local attractions: Nearby natural features offer day trip opportunities. As one Brennan Beach camper shared, "One staff member Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a 'must see' while there. Basically 15 minutes from the campground." The falls feature a 110-foot drop and hiking trails.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: For Richland area camping, book well ahead for premium spots. At The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, campers note availability challenges: "Been coming here for 25 + years. There is the casino, dining, golf course and more near by." Many repeat visitors book a year ahead.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on prevailing winds. A Sun Outdoors Association Island reviewer advised, "Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario. We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. Our site backed up to the water and although it was windy they thought ahead and built the fire pit up to block it."
Utility considerations: Full hookups are standard at most RV sites near Richland. At Streamside RV Park, a visitor noted the value: "We had full hook up. The sites are tight like most RV parks. We paid $37.50 for a one night stay. That is a good price for full hook up."
