Sackets Harbor sits on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario at approximately 328 feet elevation. The region features a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Water levels on Lake Ontario can fluctuate significantly, especially during spring thaw, potentially affecting shoreline campgrounds.
What to do
Boat rentals at waterfront sites: Campers visiting Swan Bay Resort - The 1000 Islands Premier RV Park & Marina gain access to watercraft rentals. "There are plenty of rentals too – ranging from boats, kayaks, golf carts, etc.," notes Nancy W., who visited during quieter weekdays.
Swimming in clear lake waters: The shallow-entry beaches at Southwick Beach State Park Campground offer excellent swimming opportunities. "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever," explains Theresa F., who camps there 3-5 times yearly.
Kayaking along shoreline: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Association Island for easy paddling. "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," shares Donna C., highlighting the accessibility of water activities.
Fishing for perch: The St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario offer productive fishing grounds. Cedar Point State Park provides dock access for anglers. One visitor mentions, "There is something for everyone at cedar point; swimming, yoga, boating, docks and fishing."
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Long Point State Park Campground receives praise for its lake proximity. Britt B. describes it as "part of the Thousand Islands. The campground has some of the best amenities we have seen in a state park," noting the easy water access where "you can easily launch kayaks right from your campsite."
Concrete pads at upscale resorts: Campers appreciate the solid infrastructure at premium parks. "Blacktop roads, cement pads, big rig friendly, tiki bar, and a professional, polite, and efficient staff make this a great campground," says Raymond C. about Swan Bay Resort.
Clean, individual bathroom facilities: State park campgrounds maintain well-kept shower buildings. At Long Point, one reviewer highlighted "personal toilet, shower & sink are contained within separate rooms within the amenity block, perfect for couples and young families."
Proximity to grocery stores: Swan Bay Resort offers walking-distance access to supplies. "Within walking distance is a Price Chopper Grocery, Dollar General, gas station, and wine and liquor store," notes Nancy W., providing convenience for longer stays.
What you should know
Midges and mayflies are seasonal nuisances: Waterfront camping can involve dealing with insect hatches, especially at Wellesley Island State Park Campground. One camper describes, "The sunsets were phenomenal! Just jaw dropping gorgeous. One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario."
Wind conditions affect water activities: Lake Ontario can become quite windy, limiting paddleboard or kayak opportunities. A regular visitor at Swan Bay warned "that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper and beware of winds if you want to be on the water."
Site flooding during high water periods: Some campgrounds experience water management issues. At Long Point, one camper reported, "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."
Crowding during peak season: Popular dog friendly campgrounds near Sackets Harbor can become congested on weekends and holidays. "This campground was nice but very crowded. It was Memorial Day weekend but the spots were not very big," notes Stacey C. about Association Island.
Tips for camping with families
Choose plateau camping areas: Westcott Beach State Park Campground offers elevated sites away from crowded beach areas. "We always camp in the plateau across the road from the main park area-sites are huge, clean bathrooms and a nice park right in the circle," says cheyenne, highlighting this family-friendly location.
Visit recreation centers: Some campgrounds provide organized activities for children. Susan L. notes that Cedar Point offers "a staffed rec hall with activities like scavenger hunts, art contests, and ping pong. Or you can borrow a book, hang a hammock and relax on the river."
Check playground facilities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Sackets Harbor include play areas. Jonathan G. notes that Cedar Point's "playground and beach are awesome for family time," making it ideal for children.
Consider off-peak timing: Families can find more space during weekdays. Nancy W. observed at Swan Bay, "We loved this park during the slow season and during the week when there were not kids running around and adults playing loud music."
Tips from RVers
Reserve waterfront pull-in sites: Black River Bay Campground and other local parks offer premium waterfront locations. Matt S. found at Swan Bay that "our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great. Oh, and the best part was our view of the St. Lawrence River."
Use assistance for parking: Some campgrounds provide parking help. "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver," shares Stacey C. about Association Island.
Check site specifications before booking: RV campers should verify site dimensions. Several campgrounds have limitations, with one visitor noting that at Black River Bay, "friendly people" and "plenty of camping supplies" make it appealing, but site size verification is important.
Consider utilities in site selection: Full-hookup availability varies by campground. Nancy W. explains at Swan Bay, "All the sites are the same in that they have paved parking areas with gravel in front, pavers for a patio and full hook-up."
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