Sodus sits in the Lake Ontario fruit belt of western New York, where elevations range from 249 feet at the lakeshore to around 400 feet inland. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall camping seasons can see overnight lows in the 40s. The region's glacial geology creates distinctive drumlin formations visible from many campgrounds, giving campers unusual rolling terrain to explore compared to flatter lakeshore areas.
What to do
Hiking at Chimney Bluffs: Trails at Chimney Bluffs State Park, about 10 miles from Lake Bluff RV Park, offer unique erosion formations along Lake Ontario. "We drove through the "bluffs" loop, thinking it would be beautiful and look out on the water," notes one camper who visited nearby Fair Haven Beach State Park.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers both pond and lake fishing options. At Lakeview Camping Area, campers appreciate the "great fishing pond" and note the "canoes and paddle boats available" for accessing fishing spots. One camper reports, "Range of camping available from non electric to sites with electric also cabins are available... excellant fishing."
Beach activities: Sandy beaches along Lake Ontario provide swimming options during summer months. At Lakeview Camping Area, campers note "We love this place it has just enough waves that the little kids can jump them. But small enough that they don't get pulled over by the waves." Another camper appreciated a "Large, private plot in drumlin loop. Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean."
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds near Sodus feature secluded sites. At Webster Park, campers enjoy that "Camp sites are wooded and private. Very quiet and peaceful." Another camper mentioned, "There was good separation between the campsites and the bathrooms and showers were clean."
Family activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events and amenities for children. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, one camper notes, "Our 3 and 5 year olds really enjoyed the jump pad and woods obstacles." Another camper praised the variety of options: "There's Ziplines with treetop walk and a bounce. And even a play area for your dogs."
Nature sounds: The rural setting provides peaceful natural soundscapes. At Little Creek Camp, campers report unique wildlife encounters: "I heard the most beautiful sounds!" and another mentioned they "Heard a Great Horned owl." Similarly, at Webster Park, one camper shares, "I'm a birder and my tent site here is next to a little grove of trees where I counted 12 species of birds this morning."
What you should know
Water advisories: Some campgrounds experience occasional water quality issues. One camper at Fair Haven noted, "When we were there the city was under a water advisory- all water had to be boiled before any kind of use." This requires planning for alternative drinking water sources for both people and pets.
Seasonal population: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Sodus have a high percentage of seasonal residents. At Junius Ponds, a camper observed, "A would be beautiful campground is over run with seasonal campers and their golf carts." Another mentioned, "Most of the sites are for seasonal guests so it can be difficult to get a reservation."
Cell service variability: Internet and phone access can be limited at some locations. One camper at Webster Park reported, "Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store." In contrast, at Cherry Grove Campground, a visitor found "WiFi is very good, as is cell service from Verizon and T-Mobile."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with children. At Lake Bluff RV Park, a regular visitor recommends, "We stay close to the playground these days in our pop up usually at site 5 so our 5 and 9 year old can walk or ride to campground."
Game room access: Some campgrounds offer indoor entertainment options. A Lake Bluff camper notes, "Near the play ground they have a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too." This provides backup activities during rainy weather.
Beach safety: Lake Ontario beaches have varying conditions for children. A family at Lakeview Camping Area appreciated that the lake "has just enough waves that the little kids can jump them. But small enough that they don't get pulled over by the waves." The mix of pond and lake access provides options based on swimming abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Lakeview Camping Area, an RVer observed, "The non-electric sites were pretty much all on hilly areas, most would be impossible for an RV to get level, though there were a few that would have worked."
Water connections: Check water hookup locations before setting up. One camper at Webster Park noted, "Two-headed water spigots are shared by 2 sites, which worked reasonably well; we were glad we had an extra hose to reach back to our camper."
Off-season considerations: Pet-friendly campgrounds near Sodus have varying seasonal operations. At Junius Ponds, the season runs "April 15 to October 15," while Monroe County Webster Park operates from "April 1 to October 31." This seasonal variation affects late fall and early spring camping plans with pets.
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