Tent camping near Webster, New York provides access to the Erie Canal waterway system and the forested hills of western New York. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October, closing for winter when temperatures regularly drop below freezing and snowfall becomes common.
What to do
Water recreation access: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort in Macedon offers tent sites with kayak launches and a boat marina nearby. According to Rachel T., "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it."
Hiking trails: Tent sites at Holiday Hill Campground provide access to multiple trail systems. Peter notes, "Mostly known for Reynolds Gully, and Johnson Hill trails! Tons to do in the area but town isn't too far."
Family activities: Campgrounds in the area often schedule weekend entertainment. At Dream Lake Campground, Nick O. reports, "Weekend activities. The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers as a priority. Terry F. at Holiday Hill Campground notes, "The campground has clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars."
Swimming access: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds receives positive reviews for its water recreation. Sara H. mentions, "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Spacious sites: Tent campers appreciate room between sites. At Holiday Hill Campground, Terry F. observes, "sites are clean and spacious side to side."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional work to level tents or trailers. Donna C. from Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort notes, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach."
Seasonal availability: Most Webster area campgrounds operate from May through October. Holiday Hill Campground specifically runs from May 1 to October 14, while Dream Lake Campground extends slightly longer until October 25.
Rule enforcement: Management styles vary between campgrounds. At Dream Lake, one camper reports, "Owners yell at campers, strict about rules for everyone except their friends."
Cell service: Cell reception is variable but generally reliable at established campgrounds. At Holiday Hill Campground, Terry F. confirms, "Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly campgrounds: Dream Lake Campground receives high marks from families. Robyn M. states, "I love this campground very family friendly lots of activities been going here 6 years now and never have had a bad time."
Site selection: For quieter family camping, select sites away from main activity areas. Terry F. advises, "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas that appeal to families with children. Sara H. notes that Cross Lake Park Campgrounds has "nice playgrounds" in addition to swimming access.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites can be difficult to secure, especially on weekends. Terry F. observes, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get."
Alternative camping options: The PineApple Farm offers both tent camping and cabin options with basic amenities like drinking water, showers and toilets, providing an alternative to larger established campgrounds.
Online reservations: Some campgrounds offer convenient online booking systems. Terry F. mentions Holiday Hill Campground's "Online booking was seamless" and notes the reasonable cost of "$43 per night for end of the season weekend."
