Thousand Island Park sits at the convergence of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, where the landscape features distinctive granite outcroppings and diverse shoreline habitats. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during the day, with nights cooling to the 50s and frequent river breezes affecting camping conditions. The region receives moderate rainfall even in summer months, creating lush vegetation around campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The St. Lawrence River offers excellent pike and smallmouth bass fishing, particularly at Eel Weir State Park Campground where campers can access the water directly from shoreline sites. "Small campground with 30+ sites. Grass sites with plenty of trees for shade... There are 2 sites immediately on the river but many others with unobstructed views," notes Daniel L., highlighting the easy river access.
Boat rentals: For water exploration without bringing your own watercraft, several campgrounds offer rental services. At Association Island KOA (now Sun Outdoors Association Island), "The approach by way of a single lane bridge to the island is beautiful. Once on the island, it's obvious that this is a great place for retreat. Surrounded by Lake Ontario, it's a secluded and idyllic setting," according to Matt S., who also mentions their marina for small boats.
Beach swimming: The region offers multiple beach options beyond resort pools. At Southwick Beach State Park, visitors find "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever" according to Theresa F., who camps there 3-5 times yearly. The extensive sandy shoreline provides safe swimming areas even for families with younger children.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Multiple campgrounds feature direct water views, but Burnham Point State Park Campground stands out for its unobstructed river perspectives. John B. describes it as "Beautiful and peaceful" with "easy access to swim in the water" and mentions it's "right on the water." The park's smaller size (fewer than 50 sites) means less crowding than larger waterfront campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers consistently receive mention in reviews. At Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA, Liz M. notes "The campground is clean and well kept. The laundry room and bathrooms were clean." Similar sentiments appear in Tiffany H.'s review of Eel Weir, mentioning "Relaxing, quiet, decent fishing, clean bathrooms and friendly staff."
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Burnham Point State Park, Aaron P. mentions "the family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night" as a favorite feature. Other campgrounds offer bird watching, particularly during migration seasons, with Matt S. noting "our view of the St. Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds" at Swan Bay Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The primary camping season runs May through October, with peak demand in July and August. Long Point State Park visitor Carl G. warns about spring conditions: "We arrived at Long Point to find out that the site is very wet... buried our class c up to rear axel."
Wind factors: Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River create significant wind conditions affecting campsites. At Jacques Cartier State Park Campground, Alycia M. advises "We book early so we can get a water front site" but notes weather conditions can change quickly. Similarly, Tracey G. warns about Association Island KOA: "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially for premium waterfront sites. Christopher from Kring Point State Park notes "Beautiful campground. The ladies at the check in point were very nice and helpful! Bathrooms were clean (no hot water). Just didn't expect the plots to be so small with no privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature recently upgraded playground equipment. Kring Point State Park Campground earns praise from Christina B.: "My family and I love this campground...the area has such history! It has a little beach area and great rock cliffs to jump off and swim!" These natural features supplement constructed playgrounds.
Swimming safety: For families with younger children, Jacques Cartier State Park offers supervised swimming. Alycia M. notes "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it." The designated swimming areas provide peace of mind for parents watching multiple children.
Food options: While many campgrounds lack on-site food services, proximity to local establishments offers convenient alternatives. Scott H. mentions dining near 1000 Islands Campground: "The ice cream shop Gals is wonderful!! PJs Ratrace had incredible fish fries. Both places are very near the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. Michael M. cautions about Swan Bay Resort: "What I spent here for 2 nights I could have stayed a week at a KOA, so I did pay for those beautiful river sunsets." However, he notes the amenities justify the premium: "Swan Bay Resort is exactly that. All of there sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups."
Utilities and hookups: Full hookup availability varies significantly between parks. At 1000 Islands Campground, Bryan notes: "We arrived on July 5th for 5 nights. Our original site was listed at 55', but there was no way our 43' camper would fit, nor make the tight turn into it. The owner quickly moved us to another site."
Waterfront access for large rigs: While waterfront sites are desirable, they may not accommodate larger RVs. Chuck W. recommends Swan Bay Resort: "Great camp. Easy in and out for big rigs. Right on the St. Lawrence River. Many amenities to include 3 bay R.V. wash as well as car wash. Nice sites and some on the water with docks and a boat ramp."
