Lake Ontario provides the backdrop for glamping near Sterling, New York, where the camping season typically runs from April through October. The area features a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and RV resorts situated around Cayuga and Seneca lakes, with elevations ranging from 246 feet at Lake Ontario to about 600 feet inland. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with cooler evenings, while spring and fall camping brings temperatures ranging from 45-65°F.
What to do
Explore local waterways: Lake Bluff RV Park offers private fishing opportunities for campers. One visitor noted, "There is a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," making it appealing for families who want indoor activities during inclement weather.
Visit Salmon River Falls: Located about 15 minutes from Brennan Beach Campground, this natural attraction comes highly recommended. A camper shared, "One staff member Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a 'must see' while there."
Take advantage of water activities: At Sampson State Park Campground, visitors can rent pontoon boats directly from the marina. According to a recent camper, "Marina convenience store with pontoon boat rentals, fishing, swimming, ice cream and concessions stand" are available on-site, providing multiple options for water-based recreation.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campers appreciate sites with direct views of the region's lakes. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, the unusual water color is a major draw. One visitor described it as "Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands."
Kid-friendly amenities: The campgrounds near Sterling offer numerous activities for children. A camper at Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort shared their experience: "The staff here is excellent, and are always willing to do what they can to make sure you're having a great stay... So many activities for the kids, a great pool, mini-golf, parades, just non stop action to keep them going and tire them out!"
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds in the area provide ample space between campsites. A visitor to Sampson State Park noted, "Most sites are pretty spacious, pets allowed in some loops" and mentioned that the "paved loops - good for bikes and scooters" add to the appeal for families bringing recreational equipment.
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Site layouts differ significantly between campgrounds. At Cayuga Lake State Park Campground, one camper warned, "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."
Seasonal population: Many campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal campers. At Sterling Creek Campground, a visitor mentioned, "A lot of seasonsals. Lots of activities for kids, and just around the corner from chimney bluff state park which are a must see!"
Water and dump station logistics: Some parks have limited facilities for filling water tanks and dumping waste. At Sampson State Park, a camper observed, "There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers" and "Only 2 dump stations."
Tips for camping with families
Consider swimming options: Green Lakes State Park features a designated swimming area with lifeguards. A camper mentioned, "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas, in close proximity to the store and snack shop."
Look for structured activities: Some campgrounds offer organized recreation programs. A visitor to Selkirk Shores State Park Campground shared, "They had a reptile exhibit with huge snakes and crocodiles, another day they had tie dyeing t-shirts, other days they had bingo(candy was the prize), exercises, and crafty things to make."
Choose campground loops strategically: Different sections of larger campgrounds may have different atmospheres. One camper advised about Selkirk Shores State Park Campground: "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."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup considerations: Check the location of electric boxes when setting up. At Sampson State Park, a camper noted, "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough."
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have restrictions on how RVs can park. At Sampson State Park, "They don't allow pull-in camping. Campers MUST be backed in," which could be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services for RVs. Junius Ponds features "premium glamping pods equipped with electricity" and a camper mentioned, "We were in a long pull through near the front of the campground and it had a large grassy section to the side."
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