Campsites near Warners, New York offer diverse recreational opportunities within a 30-mile radius of Syracuse. Located in Onondaga County at approximately 430 feet elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with camping primarily available from late April through mid-October. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, making most facilities seasonal operations with limited or no winter access.
What to do
Water activities on Oneida Lake: At Oneida Shores County Park, visitors can access Oneida Lake for swimming and boating. "The beach was nice and clean. Life guards around. Nice playground and bathrooms available," notes Sara H. The park includes designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months.
Hiking trails with unique geological features: Green Lakes State Park Campground offers a popular 3.1-mile loop trail around two glacier-formed lakes. "There are miles of trails to explore," explains Cindy H. The trails range from easy walking paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and waterways provide fishing access. "Fishing and boat rental if you want to be closer to the water," notes Kelly J. about Green Lakes. Most locations require valid New York State fishing licenses, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
Golfing: On-site golfing is available at select parks. "Golfing is also available on site!" mentions Sheri S. about Green Lakes State Park. Rental equipment and tee times can be reserved in advance during peak season.
What campers like
Private farm camping experience: Woonton Family Farms offers a different experience from typical campgrounds. "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner," writes Willemien V. The farm allows access to canoeing and seasonal fresh berries.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many reviewers highlight bathroom quality as a deciding factor. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," notes Sheri S. about Green Lakes State Park.
Water clarity: The unique water coloration at certain lakes draws visitors. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands," Kenneth S. mentions about Green Lakes. Swimming areas typically open from late June through early September, depending on weather conditions.
Playground access: Families appreciate the playground facilities. "Great playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," Sara H. notes about Green Lakes State Park. Most playgrounds are located within walking distance of camping areas.
What you should know
Campground policies vary significantly: Rules about pets, quiet hours, and campfires differ between parks. At Oneida Shores County Park, one camper noted specific challenges: "Camp host actually came and took our wood for our campfire! So keep an eye in your campfire pit!" advises Deborah G.
Shower facilities sometimes distant: At some campgrounds, shower access requires walking. "Showers are available but a bit far from the actual campground. Water was warm but the water pressure wasn't great," reports Nicole V. about Oneida Shores.
Weekend noise levels: Weekends typically bring more visitors and activity. "We were the only tent campers around and the RV groups were loud late and early. We struggled to sleep because of the noise," warns Kayleigh K. about her stay at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), reservations are essential. Sites with water access or electric hookups fill quickly, sometimes months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with private bathroom options: Families with young children appreciate individual facilities. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," notes a reviewer about Green Lakes State Park.
Look for shallow swimming areas: When camping with children, beach gradients matter. "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas. in close proximity to the store and snack shop," notes Sheri S. about Green Lakes State Park.
Consider campsite location relative to playgrounds: At Cayuga Lake State Park Campground, location matters. "Be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," advises Jeremy T. Sites near playgrounds provide convenience but may experience more daytime noise.
Plan for insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "The mosquitoes were awful! We went in June," reports Sara H. about her experience at Riverforest Park Campground. Bring appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. Sites at North Bay Campgrounds offer "Dry camping, water and electric available," according to Terri P., but space limitations may apply.
Verify hookup quality: At some campgrounds, utilities may need maintenance. "The water hookups were stuck or coated with paint. The site next to us had the same problem," reports one camper about their experience.
Consider water access if boating: RV sites with boat launch access often cost more but provide convenience. "Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun," notes Sara H. about Cross Lake Park Campgrounds.
Look for full hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the region. "There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," notes Cindy H. about Green Lakes State Park. These premium sites typically cost $5-10 more per night than standard electric sites.
