The Thousand Islands region sits on the border between the United States and Canada along the St. Lawrence River, featuring over 1,800 islands that range from tiny outcroppings to larger inhabited islands. Watertown serves as a gateway to this region, located just 30 minutes from Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider temperature swings from 40-70°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Point State Park Campground offers excellent fishing directly from the shoreline. "Great fishing from almost every part of this park. Two beaches to swim. Almost every campsite is on the water," notes a visitor to Kring Point State Park Campground.
Kayak launches: Multiple access points allow for easy water entry with personal watercraft. "We were able to drop our kayaks right in the water in front of our rig and paddle to our heart's content. The water is clear and cool," according to a camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Boat tours: Schedule a river tour from nearby Alexandria Bay to see historic sites. "Within an hours drive of lots of cute, small river towns with tons of ambiance. Water sport potential was huge if you have your own watercraft. Highly recommend a boat tour of the St. Lawrence River!" shares a reviewer.
Swimming beaches: Many parks feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Selkirk Shores State Park Campground, "The beach is good for children and they have a great recreation program for the kids. While we were there they had a reptile exhibit with huge snakes and crocodiles, another day they had tie dyeing t-shirts."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Premium locations offer direct water access for swimming or launching small craft. "Our site was a pull in and we faced a western view of Lake Ontario. We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. The stars were everywhere," reports a camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Updated facilities: Newer bathroom buildings with private accommodations are available at some locations. "Personal toilet, shower& sink are contained within separate rooms within the amenity block, perfect for couples and young families. They are new construction with plenty of room," notes a visitor at Burnham Point State Park Campground.
Dark skies: Minimal light pollution at waterfront campgrounds allows for stargazing. One reviewer at Burnham Point State Park Campground mentioned, "Beautiful and Peaceful. Beautiful view of the river. Easy access to swim in the water. Very clean bathrooms. Electric site with water. Boat launch. Plenty of tree to hang your hammock."
Recreation programs: Organized activities for children are available during peak season. "The beach is good for children and they have a great recreation program for the kids... exercises, and crafty things to make. Firewood is available on site, with delivery if you buy 1/4 cord and up," according to a camper at Selkirk Shores State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Some locations have limited space for larger equipment. At 1000 Islands Campground, a visitor 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. The owner quickly moved us to another site."
Wind conditions: Lakefront sites experience significant wind that can damage equipment. "Our neighbor (who has camped here seasonally for the last four years) mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper," warns a reviewer.
Bug populations: Proximity to water means insect management is essential. "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario. Be prepared to deal with this as we were not and had to vacuum inside the RV every night for about an hour."
Seasonal closures: Many facilities and amenities close before the official end of camping season. At Brennan Beach Campground, "We went late summer show it was becoming offseason. Most amenities close down. Pool, swimming at Lake Ontario beach, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature extensive play areas for children. At 1000 Islands Campground, "My son loved the playground. Right behind gals ice cream. Park was clean! Bathrooms were nice. We didn't have any issues at all!"
Beach access: Sandy areas suitable for children are available at select locations. "Southwick itself has great camping spots right next to the beach. The waves don't get too big, so it is very safe for kids. Southwick itself has a sizable playground near the beach that is great for the kids."
Private bathroom facilities: Newer buildings include family-friendly designs. At Swan Bay Resort, "Bathrooms/showers were clean. Site we stayed at had full hook ups. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants. Spent time at the beach which is also very nice."
Loop selection: Choose camping areas based on desired atmosphere. "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."
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially for glamping near Watertown, New York. A Kring Point State Park camper noted, "We've camped here every year but it's getting difficult to get in here. Every site is beautiful with rocks. But the rocks make it beautiful."
Concrete pad availability: Some parks offer paved surfaces for easier leveling. "All of there sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is riverviews from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river," according to a visitor.
Seasonal camper sections: Many parks have areas dedicated to longer-term stays that differ from transient camping areas. "A lot of locals camp here seasonally, and if you're not from around there, you'll stick out. We had a few awkward interactions but nothing serious. Mostly just funny."
Access considerations: Some glamping facilities near Watertown, New York have specific approach requirements. "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 for a RV campground."
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