The Watertown, New York area sits at the junction of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, with elevations ranging from 250 to 500 feet above sea level. Camping sites near Watertown, New York remain accessible from mid-April through mid-October, with most primitive sites closing by September. The region experiences temperature fluctuations from 45°F nights to 85°F days during peak camping season.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Ontario: Cedar Point State Park Campground provides direct water access with boat docks and a swimming beach. "The beach was well kept, and the playground was perfect for our kids (8 and younger)," notes one visitor to Cedar Point State Park Campground.
River fishing opportunities: The St. Lawrence River offers multiple fishing spots across various campgrounds. At Swan Bay Resort, one camper reports: "Fishing was fun…lots of places to go to fish and the scenery was awesome."
Hiking trails and nature exploration: Wellesley Island State Park features extensive trail networks through diverse ecosystems. "I really recommend heading to the nature center and following the trails there. The views are gorgeous and you get some great vistas," shares an experienced camper.
Island camping experiences: Stay on one of the area's islands for a unique perspective. At Sun Outdoors Association Island, "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."
What campers like
Clear night skies: Many campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for stargazing. One camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island reports: "We were treated to gorgeous sunsets and minimal light pollution at night. The stars were everywhere."
Waterfront camping options: Direct lake access remains highly valued. "We stayed at site Bluejay 3. Very spacious and private. We reserved the site 3 days prior and still found most waterfront campsites already reserved," notes a visitor to Wellesley Island State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Parks maintain good sanitation standards, particularly in the off-season. At Southwick Beach State Park Campground, "Beautiful new buildings on site, variety of campsites. Favorites are the beachfront sites, access to the beach and beautiful Lake Ontario."
Island seclusion: The feeling of separation from mainland crowds appeals to many. "Small island that you get to by a causeway. You'll never see more beautiful sunrises and sunsets! Nice pool. Not a lot to do if you don't have a boat, but great for a short weekend," says a camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind conditions affect water activities and campsite setup. At Swan Bay Resort, a visitor cautions: "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."
Reservation timing: Book waterfront sites months in advance, particularly for summer weekends. "Most sites do not have shade but they added a new section that does have some old mature trees and sporadic shade," notes a camper at Swan Bay Resort.
Insect activity: Lake proximity means increased bug presence during warm months. "One HUGE downfall was the amount of BUGS! Millions (not exaggerating) of midges and mayflies swarming the grounds from Lake Ontario," reports a visitor to Swan Bay Resort.
Seasonal flooding: Some sites experience water issues after heavy rains. At Long Point State Park, one camper experienced: "We arrived at Long Point to find out that the site is very wet. Gave us option on that site or 2 others. Took a different site and buried our class c up to rear axel."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore," explains a visitor to Swan Bay Resort.
Swimming safety: Beach areas with gradual drop-offs provide safer swimming for children. At Long Point State Park Campground, "The park offers flat, grassy sites, all with fire rings & picnic tables. The camp office sells ice and firewood. The campground has its own boat ramp and dock."
Activity scheduling: Many parks offer structured recreation programs during summer months. "One of the few state parks I have been to that offer a staffed rec hall with activities like scavenger hunts, art contests, and ping pong," shares a Cedar Point State Park visitor.
Site selection for families: Choose sites away from waterfront for safety with small children. "Many repeat campers over many years. Best sites are hard to book ahead and are best for tents or small trailers. Nice play spaces for kids of all ages, and also has a nice playground area," notes a Long Point State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many parks accommodate larger rigs but require advance booking. "We stayed in a cottage. Guaranteed waterfront view," mentions a visitor at Sun Outdoors Association Island.
Hookup availability: Full service sites exist but vary by campground. At Black River Bay Campground, visitors appreciate the "Friendly people! Quiet! Play area for kids! Pavillion! Events! Docks for boats! Fishing! Nice store with plenty of camping supplies!"
RV pad surfaces: Surface types impact leveling requirements. "All of there sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is riverviews from just about every site which is nice," explains a Swan Bay Resort camper.
Check-in assistance: Some parks provide parking guidance for larger vehicles. "At check in they take you to your spot and help you get settled in. That is a marriage saver," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Association Island.
