Cabin camping near Watertown, New York offers access to the western edge of the Adirondack Mountains and sits within 20 miles of Lake Ontario's eastern shore. Average summer temperatures range from 55-80°F, with cabin availability typically extending from May through mid-October. Winter cabin options are limited as most facilities close during colder months when temperatures can drop below 10°F.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Ontario: At Westcott Beach State Park Campground, visitors can swim at the designated beach area with lifeguards on duty. "The beach is nice but can get crowded," reports one camper. Stone steps provide access to the water rather than a sandy shoreline.
Fishing opportunities: The St. Lawrence River offers excellent fishing spots accessible from Grass Point State Park Campground. "Great place to stay with a boat," notes one visitor. The location provides convenient access to Rock Island for additional fishing options.
ATV trails: For those seeking land-based recreation, the area around Cedar Creek Cabin provides extensive ATV trail networks. A visitor mentioned, "The best part is the riding and close to several local bar/restaurants that have good food and good folks." Riders can access multiple interconnected trail systems directly from their accommodations.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Sun Outdoors Association Island offers a unique island camping experience reached by a causeway. "Access is off of I81, down a few back roads and across a causeway. Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario," describes one camper. The island setting provides minimal light pollution for stargazing.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site sizes at Wellesley Island State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "The sites there are big! We usually get 2 sites and place as many as 5 tents between the 2 sites!" This makes the park ideal for larger groups wanting to camp together.
Playground access: Multiple parks feature quality playgrounds for families. At 1000 Islands Campground, "My son loved the playground," reports one visitor. Similarly, another camper at Grass Point State Park noted, "The playground was extremely nice!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: Lake Ontario affects local weather patterns with strong winds common at waterfront sites. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, a camper warned, "Our neighbor mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper."
Seasonal insects: The region experiences significant insect activity, particularly in early summer. One visitor to Swan Bay Resort reported, "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario."
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "If you don't grab a lakeside campsite early they will definitely be taken so reserve early!" advised a Westcott Beach State Park visitor. Many parks open reservations 6-9 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children on bikes. At Southwick Beach State Park Campground, "There are some short trails that are good for running or probably cross country skiing in the winter." These paths provide safe spaces for children to ride.
Beach safety: Lake Ontario offers swimming opportunities with varying conditions. "Lake Ontario is an amazing lake to be on and the water is pretty warm in the summer time. The waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids," notes a Southwick Beach visitor.
Nature programs: Wellesley Island State Park features a nature center with educational programs. A camper suggested, "I really recommend heading to the nature center and following the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas."
Tips from RVers
Utilities and hookups: Most RV sites offer electric, water, and sometimes sewer connections. At Fort Drum Recreation Area, military families can find "regular camping sites and RV sites" with standard hookups close to base.
Site selection strategy: RVers should consider site dimensions when booking. At 1000 Islands Campground, one RVer noted, "Our original site was listed at 55', but there was no way our 43' camper would fit, nor make the tight turn into it." Always verify actual site dimensions before arrival.
Service availability: Several campgrounds offer RV-specific amenities. Swan Bay Resort provides "a free boat launch and boat slips for guests" plus "a self-service car wash with bay large enough for motorhomes" adjacent to the entrance.
