Tent camping near Hammond, New York centers around the Thousand Islands region's distinctive water-based camping opportunities. The St. Lawrence River creates a network of island and mainland camping options with varying accessibility requirements. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, though evening temperatures can drop significantly even in July and August, requiring campers to pack appropriate layers.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Francis Lake provides excellent paddling opportunities with multiple water access points. According to one camper at Francis Lake: "This spot is totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet... A little stream turns under a few footbridges and out to francis lake."
Rope course adventures: Outdoor enthusiasts seeking more structured activities can find challenge courses at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates Inc notes the facility offers "swimming, canoes, and a high ropes course, gathering around the campfire to end the day- Beaver Camp has it all."
Boat-to camping excursions: Unique to this region is the ability to access remote camping spots only by watercraft. One camper at Cedar Island State Park Campground explains: "The first time we went here we didn't realize you need a boat to get to the campsite, luckily some other visitors gave us a ride. Really memorable due to it being on an island within the 1000 Islands."
What campers like
Separation from crowds: The boat-access requirement creates natural crowd control at certain campgrounds. A reviewer at Cedar Island State Park Campground appreciates this aspect: "You need a boat to get here, making it one of our favorite places to camp in NY. There are quite a few sites here, all pretty private, but still make reservations."
Sunrise and sunset views: Waterfront locations provide exceptional lighting conditions at dawn and dusk. A Cedar Island State Park visitor recommends: "Be sure to take in the sunrise/set while there."
Secluded tent sites: Della Terra offers private camping areas away from populated campgrounds. According to a reviewer at Della Terra: "This property is rural and beautiful. There is solar power to provide you with your electrical needs. 15 miles from Whetstone Gulf State Park!"
What you should know
Boat requirements: Several island campgrounds require watercraft for access, making advance planning essential. As one camper discovered at Canoe Point State Park Campground: "Canoe being in the name implied that it is frequented, at least occasionally, by canoes. According to the staff person there who swore in disbelief that a canoe actually made it to the island, he didn't remember there being a canoe there before."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from late May through early September, with limited or no services outside this window. Back Bay Campground in Hammond provides 15 sites with electrical hookups and water access during the main summer season.
Reservation importance: Despite remote locations, popular island campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Mary Island State Park Campground, a camper notes the exceptional spacing between sites: "Every site is far away from the next and each has its own unique and beautiful view of the water and surrounding islands."
Tips for camping with families
Consider camp programs: Structured camping programs provide activities and supervision for children. A visitor to Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates explains: "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available, as well as day use access to the beach and high ropes course."
Test swimming areas first: Water depth and current vary significantly throughout the region. Francis Lake campers appreciate that their location is "Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water."
Pack extra supplies: Island camping requires thorough preparation since return trips for forgotten items are impractical. At Canoe Point State Park Campground, a camper warns: "All of the available wood was wet, so nothing would burn," highlighting the importance of bringing backup fire starters or alternative cooking methods.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most island camping areas cannot accommodate RVs, restricting options to mainland locations. Back Bay Campground offers electric hookups, sewer connections, and water access for RVs, though sites are limited to 15 total.
Prepare for basic amenities: Even at developed campgrounds, services may be more limited than at larger commercial operations. A camper at Shangri-La Marina Campground & Restaurant notes the location provides marina access with camping options, though specific hookups and amenities vary by site.
