Best Campgrounds near Sackets Harbor, NY

Camping options around Sackets Harbor extend from the eastern shore of Lake Ontario to the scenic St. Lawrence River, with distances between campgrounds averaging 15-30 miles. The region sits at approximately 300 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from mid-May through early October, with some extending slightly later into fall.

What to do

Boat rentals and water access: At Sun Outdoors Association Island, visitors can launch kayaks directly from their campsites. One camper noted, "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."

Fishing opportunities: Wellesley Island State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access to the St. Lawrence River. A visitor shared, "Great fishing on the St. Lawrence is awesome! Catch some perch and have a fish fry back at camp! If you fish near the boat rental there is a place to clean your fish!"

Hiking and nature trails: Cedar Point State Park features trails through wooded areas and along scenic bluffs. A reviewer mentioned, "Biking and hiking trails through the woods and on the bluffs. The campground is deep in the woods with spacious camp sites. Very secluded."

What campers like

Waterfront views: Burnham Point State Park Campground provides direct access to the St. Lawrence River. A camper explained, "Beautiful view of the river. Easy access to swim in the water. Plenty of tree to hang your hammock."

Stargazing conditions: The limited light pollution at many campgrounds makes for excellent night sky viewing. At Swan Bay Resort, one visitor remarked, "Quite dark at night, but that was a bonus as we were able to see the Milky Way!"

Spacious sites: Southwick Beach State Park Campground offers large campsites that accommodate multiple tents. According to one review, "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever-campsites roomy and we'll taken care of-bathrooms are meticulously cleaned."

What you should know

Weather considerations: The region can be windy, especially at waterfront sites. A visitor to Sun Outdoors Association Island advised, "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."

Seasonal timing: Most facilities close by early October. Cedar Point State Park's season runs from "May 6 to October 10," while Westcott Beach State Park operates from "May 20 to September 4."

Bug preparation: Insects can be prevalent, particularly near the water. One camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island reported, "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Cedar Point State Park offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor mentioned, "This is pretty kid friendly with a small maintained beach area, and was easy to get to."

Swimming areas: Southwick Beach State Park Campground features an extensive sandy beach. According to one camper, "There is TONS of beach to explore at this little State Park in New York... the waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids."

Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer organized recreational options. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, "There are gobs of activities for kids and adults. Plenty of rentals too – ranging from boats, kayaks, golf carts, etc."

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At Wellesley Island State Park Campground, certain areas better accommodate larger vehicles. One RVer advised, "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."

Hookup availability: Bedford Creek Marina & Campground provides full-service sites. While reviews are limited, the campground features "electric hookups, sewer hookups, showers, toilets, trash, and water hookups."

Parking considerations: Swan Bay Resort offers concrete pads for easy setup. A visitor noted, "All of their sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is riverviews from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river."