Best Camping near Sterling, NY

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Sterling, NY has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Sterling, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Sterling, NY (93)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bluff RV Park

    1. Lake Bluff RV Park

    13 Reviews
    11 Photos
    79 Saves
    Sodus Point, New York

    Nestled among the blue waters of Lake Ontario in northern New York, Lake Bluff Campground is a family-oriented Wayne County campground just one mile from Chimney Bluffs State Park. Bring the whole family and truly get away from the push and pull of your everyday life! Whether you stay for a weekend, month, or longer, our Lake Ontario RV resort is the ideal place for your next family vacation, romantic weekend getaway, or family reunion.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $48 - $999 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground

    2. Green Lakes State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    83 Photos
    276 Saves
    Kirkville, New York

    Green Lakes State Park's outstanding features are its two glacial lakes surrounded by upland forest. Both Round and Green Lakes are meromictic lakes, which means that there is no fall and spring mixing of surface and bottom waters. Such lakes have a high potential for evidence of ancient plant and animal life. Another special feature of the park is an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, where visitors can snowshoe in winter, and there are 10 miles of trails that cross-country skiers can use. Geography: Green Lakes State Park is located just east of the city of Syracuse, in upstate New York. Recreation: Considered a flagship facility, visitors can enjoy biking, boating, fishing, golf, hiking, picnicking, camping, and wintertime cross-country skiing. Facilities: The park's facilities include a beach, rowboat rentals, cabins and campsites, food concessions, a golf course, trails, picnic tables and pavilions, a playground, showers, and dumping stations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    3. Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    5 Reviews
    24 Photos
    2 Saves
    Sterling, New York

    Fair Haven Beach State Park has one of the finest public lakefronts in upstate New York, with high bluffs above sandy beaches and hilly woodlands. The park features 1,500 feet of beautiful sandy beach including 600 feet of guarded swimming area. Inland, Sterling Pond and Creek are centrally located amongst the geological transition between wood and water. Campsites and cabins are nestled within the gently rolling woodlands. Fishing and boating opportunities are plentiful in Lake Ontario and the adjoining Little Sodus Bay.

    ATTENTION PET OWNERS:

    · Current proof of rabies inoculation is required at check-in (metal tags will not be accepted). · At any time during your stay, pet owners may be required to provide proof of rabies inoculation upon request. Be sure to have this information available to present to park staff. · Where pets are permitted, there is a maximum limit of 2 pets per site. · Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6ft and under control at all times. · Do not leave pets unattended and always clean up after them. · Pet owners/permit holders are liable for any damage, personal injury, or nuisance caused by the pet. · Where Applicable: Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).

    No electric hookup on this site.

    ** Arrival dates earlier than the online-reservation-window may also be available at the facility.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground

    4. Cayuga Lake State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    31 Photos
    128 Saves
    Cayuga, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Future site of Little Creek Camp

    5. Future site of Little Creek Camp

    3 Reviews
    20 Photos
    11 Saves
    Wolcott, New York

    **Closed for renovations**

    This is a future project that is NOT currently open to the public!

    Pending Post:

    Little Creek Camp is a unique place to relax, reconnect, or rejoice 'round the campfire. Little Creek Camp is a year-round ideal tenting spot for travelers, families and nature enthusiasts.

    FREE Firewood. Bring your axe! We have provided fire-rings for you to use at your chosen tent site.

    TENTS PREFERED

    Tent sites: Park in the driveway and walk your gear to any spot you find comfortable. Your campsite depends on you.

    Pull-behinds: ok to park where you see fit. Depending on recent weather, the ground may be too soft for RVs/Campers to turn around.

    BYOBF 'Bring Your Own BIRD FEEDER'

    The property is loaded with hummingbirds, songbirds, woodpeckers, even an owl on occasion… July through August is a very active time for these little guys, as they chipper and play near the Rhododendron bushes or the fruit trees in the hammock-hangout. Bring and hang a full hummingbird feeder, or any bird feeder, near your campsite for a closer look at our little friends.

    Foraging on site: Wild Blackberry, Raspberry, Blueberry, mushroom, nuts… bring your NYS foraging guide! Come for the birds, the berries, or the foliage, please leave nothing but footprints.

    THIS IS NOT A CAMPGROUND

    This is a judgement free, welcoming space that should be respected.

    There is no public restroom, a shovel can be provided

    There is no electricity on site.

    No running water other than the stream. It seems clear, but it is not safe to drink.

    For shower: there is a public shower at the Beach House at Fair Haven State Park.

    NO Hunting on site.

    Please engage in 'active raccoon control' meaning, lock any food in the car before bed or when not in use. Raccoons are naturally shy animals that prefer to retreat when they sense humans nearby. Removing access to food sources is the most effective raccoon control.

    Adventuring? Nearby attractions are a NYS specialty. This is a great location for anyone visiting Fair Haven Beach, Sterling Nature Center or nearby Chimney Bluffs. The NYS Renaissance Festival is only a few minutes’ drive.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    7. Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    1 Save
    Sterling, New York

    Fair Haven Beach State Park has one of the finest public lakefronts in upstate New York, with high bluffs above sandy beaches and hilly woodlands. The park features 1,500 feet of beautiful sandy beach including 600 feet of guarded swimming area. Inland, Sterling Pond and Creek are centrally located amongst the geological transition between wood and water. Campsites and cabins are nestled within the gently rolling woodlands. Fishing and boating opportunities are plentiful in Lake Ontario and the adjoining Little Sodus Bay.

    ATTENTION PET OWNERS:

    · Current proof of rabies inoculation is required at check-in (metal tags will not be accepted). · At any time during your stay, pet owners may be required to provide proof of rabies inoculation upon request. Be sure to have this information available to present to park staff. · Where pets are permitted, there is a maximum limit of 2 pets per site. · Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6ft and under control at all times. · Do not leave pets unattended and always clean up after them. · Pet owners/permit holders are liable for any damage, personal injury, or nuisance caused by the pet. · Where Applicable: Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).

    No electric hookup on this site.

    ** Arrival dates earlier than the online-reservation-window may also be available at the facility.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin B Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin B Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    8. Drumlin B Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    2 Saves
    Sterling, New York

    Fair Haven Beach State Park has one of the finest public lakefronts in upstate New York, with high bluffs above sandy beaches and hilly woodlands. The park features 1,500 feet of beautiful sandy beach including 600 feet of guarded swimming area. Inland, Sterling Pond and Creek are centrally located amongst the geological transition between wood and water. Campsites and cabins are nestled within the gently rolling woodlands. Fishing and boating opportunities are plentiful in Lake Ontario and the adjoining Little Sodus Bay.

    ATTENTION PET OWNERS:

    · Current proof of rabies inoculation is required at check-in (metal tags will not be accepted). · At any time during your stay, pet owners may be required to provide proof of rabies inoculation upon request. Be sure to have this information available to present to park staff. · Where pets are permitted, there is a maximum limit of 2 pets per site. · Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6ft and under control at all times. · Do not leave pets unattended and always clean up after them. · Pet owners/permit holders are liable for any damage, personal injury, or nuisance caused by the pet. · Where Applicable: Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).

    ** Arrival dates earlier than the online-reservation-window may also be available at the facility.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oneida Shores County Park

    9. Oneida Shores County Park

    9 Reviews
    13 Photos
    16 Saves
    Cicero, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds
    Camper-submitted photo from Junius Ponds

    10. Junius Ponds

    10 Reviews
    22 Photos
    23 Saves
    Phelps, New York

    Finger Lakes Family Camping At Junius Ponds If you're looking for a peaceful campground setting with a family-friendly atmosphere, and tons of activities, then Junius Ponds Cabins & Campground is the perfect spot for you! Join us by pitching a tent, renting a cabin, or by parking your RV. We've got sites you will fall in love with after just one stay that will make you want to start a family tradition. Whether you are just passing through or planning a vacation with us you will not be disappointed with your stay. We simply offer the best camping experience you can have within the Finger Lakes location, complete with camping amenities and a broad selection of camping activities. There is something to do for everyone, check out our activities for our different weekend events.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $36 - $999 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 93 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Sterling

Recent Reviews in Sterling

292 Reviews of 93 Sterling Campgrounds


  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Verona Beach State Park Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Verona Beach State Park Campground

    Nice stop

    We needed a campground not too far off our route from Niagara Falls to NH and this was great. Very windy when we arrived. Our campsite 8 did not have a fire ring but others did. Right on water…can’t drive on path in front of the water sites so you are essentially on the water. Nice clean facilities.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Sterling Creek Campground
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Sterling Creek Campground

    Lipstick on a pig

    After 6 years of 2 weeks visits

    Pros: New owners have made improvements to be up to code and qualifications for KOA standards. 

    Cons: Still has environment of nosy, trashy seasonal campers who are always being rude or commenting on your gear/unit. 

    If you are looking for a quick flip bit same ole suspects, this is the place for you.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Cayuga Lake State Park Campground

    Tent camping in a backyard

    Tent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard. We could hear so many different families talking and really doing everything you do while camping but the area felt so open and unobstructed voices carried and in the evening when everyone was building campfires the smoke could be overwhelming at times.

  • Rui T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sned Acres Campground
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Sned Acres Campground

    Great getaway time

    5/5 Stars!

    I recently stayed at Sned Acres Campground, and it was an incredible experience! The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The facilities were spotless, and the campsites were spacious and well-kept. Whether you’re RVing or tent camping, there’s plenty of space and privacy.

    The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings made for a relaxing getaway. I can’t recommend Sned Acres enough – we’ll definitely be back!

  • Jim G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Brennans Bay Campground and Marina
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Brennans Bay Campground and Marina

    Great RV park with Marina

    A great park on Sandy Pond and Lake Ontario.  Mostly Permanent sites with 6 transient sites overlooking the marina.  The park has a nice pool, pavilion, store and kids playground with a basketball court.  Great area for fishing, bass, trout, salmon and walleye.  Very clean and well maintained park.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winona State Forest
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Winona State Forest

    Small but quiet campsite

    Pulled in on a Thursday afternoon and found a single camp site. While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added.

    The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail.

    It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful.

  • Randall K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Green Lakes State Park Campground

    If you love a good bathroom…

    Yes, it’s true! You’ve hit the campground bathroom lottery here!

    Let’s start off with the pros: bathrooms are great! Super modern and clean and hot, free showers! Very handicap accessible as well.

    The whole campground is very well kept. Completely litter free and all the buildings and signs are modern and cool looking. Five stars all the way for the people running this place. They are doing an awesome job keeping it very fresh.

    Maintenance/facilities: 5 stars

    Camping sites:

    I’ll start with the positive. It was a simple and easy, level site. And we had electric. So it was good.

    The cons: There is zero privacy here. Virtually no trees or shrubs between sites and sites are close to each other. In the rolling meadow sites opt for the electric as the tent only sites are basically a sardine can of campers. I mean in one spot the tents were so close to each other I thought it was a group campsite but it was not. Like a group hostel room but with tents instead of bunks.

    We were only here for 1 night passing through and it was great for that but I would not feel comfortable hanging outside at my site in quarters so close. Maybe I’m just weird because many people did. I can’t imagine spending any longer than 1-2 nights here. I would stay again but would check out other camp spots first. In our area 118 and 120 seemed to the best that backed up onto trees as opposed to just other sites.

    Camping sites: 2 stars

    Amenities: there’s a lot to do here. However I feel I must say you cannot reach the lakes from the rolling meadow campground without a car, bike or very long walk. You can see a bit of round lake through the trees but it really isn’t accessible. Expectations are the doom of any trip so just keep that in mind. You’re not going to bed with any sort of lake views or sounds near you. Also you can only swim at the beach which is pretty small and guarded by some pretty enthusiastic lifeguards taking the job pretty seriously. I guess you will appreciate it if you have little kids to me it was a turn off as I don’t prefer to feel like a fish in a bowl when I swim. But again this is just personal preference! Also there were a lot of rules at this tiny beach - more than I have seen at pretty much any other beach anywhere in the world. Mostly I assume the rules are there to protect the water which I can appreciate but don’t expect a relaxing lake vibe here. Lots of picnic tables and a perfect place to have a picnic and chill for a bit. Very clean beach bath area and I really appreciated the charging station with 4 covered outlets available and a charging counter. I didn’t use it but was impressed someone thought to add that in to the building plans.

    With all the rules in place there is just one missing: No political propaganda of any type should be allowed at the campsites. We were almost blinded by idiocy each time we walked to the bathroom as we had to go past a full size Trump flag someone was flying in front of their site. Can’t even imagine the rage I would’ve felt if I had to camp next to that. Fortunately I found a cut through in the woods which I used to get around it on the way to the bathroom. Camping is where you go to get away from all of it! This is state owned land and they should not be allowing that sort of inflammatory full sized political flag in any area as it only raises the blood pressure instead of dropping it. You can’t bring your own SUP or kayak, face mask or list of any other things to the lake (rules) but you can have your heart attack inducing propaganda all over your site and in everyone else’s face - makes no sense.

    Would I stay here again: Yes. But only for 1 night passing through. I felt too crowded to be there for any length of time. It was hard for me to relax outside.

    Value was a 5 star because I had full electric for $30/night and there was plenty to do. I should note for kids this place is a goldmine! Great playgrounds everywhere and you can rent kayaks. And it’s great for bikes. And it was all very handicap accessible which I thought was very impressive. You can tell a lot of thought went into the facility side of park. If they cut out 1/4 of the camp sites it would be spacious and amazing. And the trumpeter is just a case of bad timing for me, not a permanent thing (although I do think they should ban that decoration of insanity at state run parks).

  • Bella J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwick Beach State Park Campground
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Southwick Beach State Park Campground

    Not for me

    Unfortunately when we arrived at southwick the rangers & staff had all gone home so we were unable to get a map or check in. We went to our camp site & there were people playing very loud music until about 12am, no rangers around the say anything about quiet hours so I had to. Sites are on top of eachother & there’s no boarders inbetween, fine for some people but not for me. After it rained one night our site & others around us were completely flooded. The beach area & bathhouses we’re nice though so that helped the stay not be a complete wash

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed

    Primitive Dispersed camping at Morgan Hill

    This location has a set of 2 large trailhead parking lots for hikers and backpackers accessing the vast trail network of the Morgan Hill State Forest. (See area circled in image on map) You do not camp here at these parking lots, but from here can backpack in to the woods on the Onondaga Trail or connecting trails, and from there you can do LNT dispersed camping as long as you follow the state forest camping rules(see this link for more details: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping/state-land-rules) such as not setting up camp within 150 of a stream or other body or water, and not near an official campground (There are 2 official drive-in primitive camp grounds in the vicinty, for which you need permits from the local ranger; otherwise, elsewhere in the forest you can backpack the various trails and camp at your own site if you leave no trace). You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage. Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map. The woods are beautiful and the trails are well developed, but also be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer. Note: the trails going west from here enter the Labrador Hollow Unique area, which is part of the state forest but is a special preserve where camping is NOT allowed, so be aware of your lication

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    Morgan Hill Spruce Pond campsites

    This review is for the Morgan Hill primitve campsites at Spruce Pond. Although dispersed primitive camping is allowed elsewhere throughout the state forest, this is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available and an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails along with mountain biking along the forest roads. There are fire grills and nicely developed tents sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access, and one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot. There is a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway as well. The setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond. You can also easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch, you might see some in action or at least get an amazing view of the Labrador Valley!

    Note: a detailed map of the campground is here: https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/docs/regions_pdf/sprucepond.pdf

    You may camp at this campground for free, but you do need a permit and should review the campground map to select your preferred site

  • David M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sned Acres Campground
    Jun. 7, 2024

    Sned Acres Campground

    Beautiful Wide Open grounds with a lot of flat nice grass

    We stayed here for Memorial Day Weekend and really enjoyed Sned Acres. The Grounds are well taken care of (although some areas around the playgrounds and pool could have been weed whacked better) there is a lot of grass and wide open areas for playing games, walking your dogs and you can let your dogs drag their leashes so they have free roam and feel like they are running free. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing. The general store is well stocked and the family running the campground and store are very friendly. There is a nice pool for the kids. The only thing that would make Sned better is a little more spacing between the sites, they are close (we were in F130) to where if you open your window shades in your camper your neighbors are 5-10 feet away from you. Would definitely stay again if in the area.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Dec. 28, 2023

    Lakeview Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    We decided to move on

    We drove through here but didn’t stay. 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. 

    We drove through the “bluffs” loop (electric sites), thinking it would be beautiful and look out on the water, but it was a nightmare for us, with huge RVs jam packed side by side like a parking lot. 

    The lakeview loop was nicer, but still too many RVs all in a row. There are also cute cabins here for rent. 

    When we were there the city was under a water advisory- all water had to be boiled before any kind of use. There was a dump station, and trash bins but no recycling (I’m disappointed in the lack of recycling at NY State campgrounds!) So, we moved on to Selkirk SP and stayed there instead.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Selkirk Shores State Park Campground
    Dec. 28, 2023

    Selkirk Shores State Park Campground

    4 Different Loops

    This campground is 4 different loops- A loop is like the loop for people here for fishing, B loop is the mellower crowd, and C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups, no thanks. Apparently C and D are always booked and full, because people like that it’s closest to the beach trail, the playground, and the camp store. We chose a site in loop B and were happy with our choice. None of the sites at the campground have any privacy from your neighbor, you’re all sort of camped in a big circle. Sites 66 and 67 are the exception that we saw, they’re off together to the side and would be a good choice for two groups camping together. 

    There are dumpsters here, and there’s recycling for redeemable bottles and cans only, with proceeds going to the campground’s rec center. That was the most recycling I’ve seen offered at a NY state park campground yet, at least it’s something. 

    All sites are electric, some are 30 and some are 50amp. There’s a nice new dump station with several dumps and potable water. Good cell reception for both Verizon and ATT. NY State campgrounds require proof of rabies vaccinations for your dogs.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The PineApple Farm
    Oct. 27, 2023

    The PineApple Farm

    New listing

    Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're happy to welcome this new property to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave some love!

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Canandaigua-Rochester KOA
    Oct. 18, 2023

    Canandaigua-Rochester KOA

    Perimeter & Lakeside Are Best

    KOA Canandaigua/Rochester NY: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer). I rate based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience w at least some camp site privacy. Overall Rating: for a KOA :4 - see map for nicest sites. Price 2023: $61 for a 30 amp site Usage during visit: Light - off season Site Privacy: Our site : None Site Spacing: Close Site surface: Gravel and grass Reservations: They take reservations- Recommend the KOA app Campground Noise: Quiet during our stay. Road Noise: There will some noise at sites near Town Line Rd. Traffic is minimal Through Traffic in campground: None Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: Some sites. Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: At the site.
    Bathroom/ Showers: Individual shower/toilet rooms. VERY clean. Pull Throughs: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars.
    Setting: Parklike - typical KOA Weather: Highs are pin the low 50s during our stay Bugs: None this time of year. Host: Yes. Johnny on the spot.
    Rig size: Large rigs Sites: See the map in photos . Best sites are circled with green marker. Request a perimeter site or lake side if you want one is my suggestion. Otherwise you get what they give you.

  • Carl G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park
    Oct. 2, 2023

    Drumlin A Camping Area — Fair Haven Beach State Park

    love Fairhaven Beach

    We have been coming here for years. Nice large beach, swimming, fishing in Ontario or Sterling pond. Boat launch, or small boat launch in Sterling pond. The town has a small town charm, a couple of small shops, ice cream, mini golf, etc. It's worth the trip. Campground will also deliver wood to the site. One downside, NYS needs to upgrade electricity and make more sites electric. Lots of picnicking during the weekend.



Guide to Sterling

Camping near Sterling, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore local parks: Visit Cayuga Lake State Park Campground for a lovely lakefront area. One camper mentioned, "The lakefront area of the park was very nice and we enjoyed walking on the drive down in front of the lake."
  • Fishing and boating: At Oneida Shores County Park, you can enjoy fishing right on Oneida Lake. A visitor shared, "The campground was beautiful right on Oneida lake."
  • Hiking trails: Check out Fillmore Glen State Park Campground for great hiking trails. One camper noted, "Lots of hiking trails, great facilities, and very new playground."

What campers like

  • Friendly staff: Campers appreciate the helpful staff at Junius Ponds. One review said, "Well taken care of place. Friendly staff."
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer from Green Lakes State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms are great! Super modern and clean and hot, free showers!"
  • Spacious sites: Campers at Lake Bluff RV Park appreciate the spaciousness of the sites. One camper mentioned, "The sites are spacious. The staff is amazing."

What you should know

  • Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Cayuga Lake State Park Campground noted, "Most of the sites don't have water or electricity and are squeezed together in tiny loops."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife at Cayuga Lake State Park Campground. One camper had a rough experience, stating, "I did not think that I would be living in a bat house, full of flies."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Oneida Shores County Park mentioned, "Only issue: Camp host actually came and took our wood for our campfire!"

Tips for camping with families

  • Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A family at Junius Ponds enjoyed, "Nice pool and games to play."
  • Choose your site wisely: Some sites are better for families than others. A camper at Cayuga Lake State Park Campground recommended, "If you stay, I'd recommend the 800 or 1000 loops--the sites were much bigger in those areas."
  • Plan for meals: Make sure to bring food or check if the campground has a store. A visitor at Lake Bluff RV Park mentioned, "Local shop had everything you need."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site spacing: RVers should be aware of site spacing. A camper at Canandaigua-Rochester KOA noted, "The sites here for the most part are lacking in privacy."
  • Bring extension cords: Some sites may require long power cords. A visitor at Sampson State Park Campground mentioned, "Bring an extension cord."
  • Look for full hookups: If you prefer full hookups, check the campground details. A camper at Brennan Beach Campground noted, "The only reason I've given this place two stars instead of one is that it is on Lake Ontario."

Camping around Sterling, NY, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Sterling, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Sterling, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 93 campgrounds and RV parks near Sterling, NY and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Sterling, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sterling, NY is Lake Bluff RV Park with a 4.3-star rating from 13 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sterling, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Sterling, NY.

  • What parks are near Sterling, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Sterling, NY that allow camping, notably Cowanesque Lake and White Mountain National Forest.