Rodman camping offers a central location between Lake Ontario's shoreline and the Thousand Islands region. The area features mixed hardwood forests and easy connections to both Interstate 81 and Route 11. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-May through early October, with some locations operating on shortened schedules during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Ontario: Sun Outdoors Association Island offers direct water access for paddlers. "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," notes reviewer Donna C.
Fishing near Sackets Harbor: Bass, trout, salmon and walleye fishing opportunities abound at Brennans Bay Campground and Marina. "Great area for fishing, bass, trout, salmon and walleye," shares Jim G. who appreciated the marina access.
Winter recreation: The Rodman area transforms in winter months. "This is a hub for several snow mobile, cross country ski, and snow shoe trails. Several folks visited on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the last bit of the snow," reports Quade S. about winter activities.
What campers like
Large campsites: Wellesley Island State Park Campground receives high marks for spacious accommodations. "The sites there are big!!! We usually get 2 sites and place as many as 5 tents between the 2 sites!" writes Amanda H.
Lakefront sunsets: The western exposure at many lakefront sites provides memorable evening views. "Each of our interactions with staff was warm and friendly. We met a bunch of people who've visited the park for several consecutive years," notes Matt S. when describing his experience.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds provide more seclusion than others. "We stayed at site Bluejay 3. Very spacious and private," reports Erin B. about her family's tent camping experience.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Lake Ontario creates unique weather patterns. "The sunsets are great and there's a lot to do on the water, including a nice beach. There are a ton of camp sites, many along the water, but they do fill up in summer," writes Justin S.
Insect activity: Long Point State Park Campground visitors should prepare for wind and storms. "Small family campground - long time tradition on our family! Almost always a breeze and storms can come up quickly off the lake - be sure to keep things put away and weighted down," advises Nancy G.
Flooding potential: Low-lying areas can experience pooling after rain. "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," reports Carl G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple locations offer play equipment for different age groups. "Nice new children's playground. Nice hiking trail as well," says Theresa F. about the amenities at Westcott Beach State Park Campground.
Nature education: Several campgrounds maintain educational programs. "I really recommend heading to the nature center and following the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas," suggests Emily S.
Swimming options: Beaches and pools provide water recreation. "Beautiful new buildings on site, variety of campsites. Favorites are the beachfront sites, access to the beach and beautiful Lake Ontario," shares Emily C. about the swimming opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Rodman offer complete services. "Our site was full hookup and gravel based. We would definitely stay here again," reports Donna C. about her experience at Fort Drum Recreation Area.
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend researching site maps before booking. "If you're tent camping and booking through reserve america, I HIGHLY recommend perusing the site map for some time to find a site close to the water and farther from the RV ring," advises Emily S.
Check-in assistance: "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver," notes Stacey C. about the parking help provided to RVers at some locations.
Scout
