Summer is one of the best times to camp in New York, and Independence Day gives you a great reason to explore local camp spots. Fortunately, living near Clay or the Greater Syracuse area gives you the opportunity to check out a variety of unique camping spots. Whether you have a large RV or plan to camp with just a small tent, you have plenty of options. These are some of the best camping spots to check out for the Fourth of July:
Green Lakes State Park
If you’d like your camping trip to include a visit to the lake, Green Lakes State Park is the perfect choice. Within the park’s borders, you’ll have access to both Green Lake and Round Lake, both of which were glacially formed. You’ll also have the opportunity to hike some excellent trails and dine at nearby Fayetteville’s shops and restaurants.
The campsites at Green Lakes State Park offer several basic amenities, including electric hookups, showers, and a freshwater fill station. The park also features an 18-hole golf course, so make sure to bring your clubs. Keep in mind that the lakes are sensitive, so the park doesn’t allow outside boats, kayaks, or canoes. During the summer, a special boathouse opens for boating opportunities. You can also rent one of the five pavilions at the campground for events for up to 100 people.
Address: 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville.
Pleasant Lake Campground
Pleasant Lake Campground is located just outside Syracuse, and it offers a lovely camping space in a tranquil environment between May and October. At the campground, you’ll have access to fishing, boating, swimming, and volleyball courts as well as other amenities. The on-site shop sells camping supplies, food, and more. You’ll also find a rec hall available for events, a propane fill station, and a bathhouse.
If you camp at Pleasant Lake, you’ll have access to a special wooded beach area. Each campsite has a table and a fire ring. You’ll find about 110 trailer sites, many tent sites, and three cabins here. Some sites offer electric, sewer, and water hookups for your RV. If you’re planning on visiting Pleasant Lake, you’re in for a treat. The lake is a kettle lake with a maximum depth of 15 feet. You’re sure to see turtles, frogs, catfish, salamanders, and more near the lake.
Address: 65 Wigwam Drive, Pennelville.
North Bay Campground
North Bay Campground is a public park in Fulton, situated right between Oswego and Syracuse. This is one of the most beautiful places to camp in the area, and it offers plenty of shade during the hot days of July. You’ll be able to set up your RV in a clean and convenient locale between May and October.
The campground boasts 42 daily sites and 36 seasonal sites. Each site has water access, but only 31 have electric hookups. You can have your pick of sites, as you’ll find some in the woods, some on the water, and some in clearings.
One of the biggest benefits of North Bay Campground is that it’s quiet and gives you access to shopping opportunities. You’ll also be able to fish or canoe around the peaceful lakefront. Bullhead Point is a short hike away and offers a walking pier, restaurants, and more. If you’d like to visit the campground for the day, a day pass is also available.
Address: 925 Phillips St., Fulton.
Shady Shores Campground
Shady Shores Campground is an RV resort on Lake Ontario and Blind Sodus Bay. Camping here provides waterfront views and lots of activities and amenities. One thing you should know about this campground is that most sites are leased out for the entire season between April and October. Many of these seasonal sites are right on the beach with gorgeous views of the lake. You’ll also find some other more private sites. A seasonal membership is valid for two adults and four children.
Each campsite comes with water, electrical service, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Facilities include restrooms, showers, laundry services, and a playground. Events held throughout the season include bingo nights, poker nights, horseshoe tournaments, and special holiday parties. Themed dinners and live music are also part of your season pass.
Address: 14955 W. Bay Road, Fair Haven.
Riverforest Park Campground
Riverforest Park Campground is situated on the Seneca River and is only a short drive away from Syracuse. When you camp here, you’ll have access to restaurants and a marina, so it’s a great vacation spot for Independence Day. The campground features expansive spaces, easy marina access, a game room, and a recreation hall. You’ll also have access to laundry facilities and a store with camping supplies.
Riverforest is a smaller campground, but it’s a great destination if you’d like a quiet and relaxing vacation. The campground features 360 spacious sites, with some offering sun and others offering shade. You’ll also have access to a dump station, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, propane, a full-service restaurant and bar, a boat ramp, bingo, themed weekends, and more. This is also a pet-friendly campground.Address: 9439 Riverforest Road, Weedsport.
Hejamada Campground & RV Park
Hejamada Campground & RV Park is situated in the Finger Lakes region, which means you’ll find many different types of attractions in the area. The family-friendly campground provides many amenities, including a rec center with games, a general store, and a disc golf course.
On more than 82 acres, you’ll find 200 large campsites perfect for trailers, RVs, slide-outs, and more. Most sites are equipped with electric and water hookups. Some sites also offer gray water dry wells. If you’ve only brought a tent, you’ll find plenty of sites without water and electricity so you can live off the grid. Most campsites are suitable for RVs with leveled concrete pads.
Address: 748 Mcdonald Road, Port Byron.
Ready for the Great Outdoors?
Now that you know where to camp, it’s important that you find a great RV that allows you to go on the adventures you’re looking forward to. At Wilkins RV in Upstate New York, we offer a variety of new and used RVs that will help you explore New York’s gorgeous scenic campgrounds.
