Pet friendly camping near Winthrop, New York offers numerous options for campers exploring the St. Lawrence River region. Situated in northern New York near the Canadian border, the area features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds with shoreline access. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while early fall brings cooler nights around 40°F and colorful foliage displays.
What to do
Water activities on the St. Lawrence River: Robert Moses State Park Campground provides excellent shoreline access for boating and fishing. "Beautiful state park with lots of services and ammenities. We didnt get a chance to see even half of it. The beach was huge and the staff friendly," notes Elizabeth B.
Watch ships pass through locks: Visit the Eisenhower Locks near Massena, just 7 miles from Barnhart Island Camping Area. "Be sure to visit the nearby Eisenhower Locks and see the ships go through. Really fascinating!" recommends Marie H., who stayed at a premium waterfront site.
Kayaking in connected waterways: The region features numerous interconnected ponds and waterways. "So many of the ponds connect that you could paddle for days and not get bored," shares Cyndi B. about the area's paddling opportunities.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers particularly value sites with direct water access. At Robert Moses State Park, one camper mentions, "The cabin is cozy and on the water! You'll love it!" Many campgrounds feature sites where you can park just steps from the shoreline.
Friendly staff and planned activities: Pine Ridge Park Campsite receives consistent praise for its staff and events. "This campground has the best staff you can find in northern New York. The whole time they are open they have activities planned for the kids all summer long," writes Kyle I.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking a more peaceful pet friendly camping experience near Winthrop, visit in September after peak season. "We try to make an annual trip here in late September, after the throngs of summer crowds have left," advises one camper about Fish Creek Pond Campground.
What you should know
Cell service considerations: Mobile coverage can be spotty in the region. One camper at Robert Moses State Park warns, "I have read that Verizon has good service there but my AT&T service was not good and kept bouncing off Canadian towers so be careful!"
Campsite privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. At Coles Creek State Park Campground, Christopher B. notes, "Sites are tightly packed and a lot is in open areas where you're camping with all of your neighbors, good or bad."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through September or early October. Riverside Campground in Brasher Falls is open from May 1 to September 30, which is typical for the region. Fall campers should check closing dates carefully.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-focused activities: Pine Ridge Park Campsite regularly schedules events for children. "Many events for adults and children. Owners are amazing with offering many opportunities to enjoy camping," explains Erika M. about this dog-friendly camping option.
Opt for campgrounds with safe biking routes: Higley Flow State Park Campground offers excellent biking opportunities for children. "Great playground for the kids, hiking trails and more," notes Jennifer I., who visits at least once yearly with her family.
Select shallow swimming areas: Fish Creek Pond Campground features gradual shorelines ideal for families with pets. "The water is super shallow all along the shoreline. It's perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water," reports Oleńka S., adding that the bottom is mostly sandy with some rocks.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional leveling equipment. Cyndi B. mentions about Fish Creek Pond, "The sites are varied as to size and desirability, not all are level for trailers and rv's, so do some research ahead of time."
Hookup availability: While most campgrounds offer some electric sites, full hookups can be limited. Riverside Campground in Brasher Falls provides full hookups, with Steven F. noting their recent improvements: "New bathrooms and laundry center."
RV size considerations: Most campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs, but site selection is important. One RVer with a 36-foot fifth wheel successfully camped at Fish Creek Pond Campground, reporting: "We have a rather large rig plus the truck & while fish creek is notoriously a tent only/small rig campground we fit perfectly & our site has cell service!"
