Top 10 Campgrounds and RV Parks Watertown, New York
Nestled in the northern part of central New York, Watertown is one of the main stops along I-81 for those traveling to the Thousand Islands and Canada. It’s a smaller city with a population of about 30,000 and a downtown comprising older brick buildings that mainly house small family-owned businesses.
There are many rivers and lakes throughout the area, including the strong-flowing Black River, which runs through Watertown. Along with the waterways, there are miles of hiking trails and scenic areas such as Thompson Park.
Thankfully for travelers, there are plenty of excellent Watertown campgrounds to visit whether you’re traveling in a rental or your own RV. Read on to learn more about the top 10 RV parks in the Watertown, New York, area.
Natural Bridge / Watertown KOA
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This Kampground of America (KOA) sits in the small town of Natural Bridge, which is pretty much the in-between point of the Adirondack Mountains and the Thousand Islands. The campground sports a family-friendly environment with planned activities that both parents and kids can take part in. This KOA campground by Watertown, New York, will leave you wanting to come back again and again.
Why You’ll Love Natural Bridge / Watertown KOA
Whether you’re relaxing around the fire at your spacious campsite or taking a hayride around the park, there is always something fun to do at the KOA. There’s a heated pool to go for a swim in during the colder months and miles of trails throughout the area to explore. They even have a general store, so you won’t need to go venturing out of the campground unless you want to.
What People Are Saying About Natural Bridge / Watertown KOA
“Sparkling clean, heated indoor pool! Very clean restrooms and showers. Laundry is available. The campground store has all you might need. Exceptionally friendly owners and staff!” – Barbeque Bear, RV Park Reviews
1000 Islands / Association Island KOA
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Located about 30 minutes from Watertown right on the shores of Lake Ontario, this small island campground will provide you with an amazing getaway experience. Once you cross over the bridge connecting the island to the mainland, you’ll be in your own little camping universe complete with lots of fishing and lazy days by the campfire. This is one of the great RV campgrounds near Watertown, New York.
Why You’ll Love 1000 Islands / Association Island KOA
It’s hard to see how the camp management was able to squeeze so much to do on a 65-square-acre island, but they sure did. There are all sorts of gaming courts, swimming and fishing access, boat rentals, and even bounce pillows and playgrounds for the kids. In addition to an electronic gate for added security, you’ll also find stores on-site selling everything you need for a camping trip.
What People Are Saying About 1000 Islands / Association Island KOA
“Great park on the shores of Lake Ontario. Friendly greeting, level sites, very quiet family campground. Very well run. I will be back.” – Cougar, RV Park Reviews
Merry Knoll Campground
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If you’re looking for spectacular RV parks by Watertown, then look no further. This park is located in Clayton, which is roughly 10 minutes from the Thousand Island Bridge, Alexandria Bay, and Cape Vincent. Since the campground sits on the St. Laurence River, it offers amazing opportunities to swim, fish, and boat.
Why You’ll Love Merry Knoll Campground
In addition to all the water-based activities, there is a game room and playground for the kids to play on, and the sites are large and shaded from the hot summer sun. Furthermore, there is a general store on-site to cater to your needs as well as helpful staff members who stand ready to serve. You’ll also love that the town of Clayton has amazing restaurants and local shopping.
What People Are Saying About Merry Knoll Campground
“Very clean, well-kept campground. The owner showed us around the campground in his golf cart and assisted us in parking the RV. He was also there the morning we left, in the rain, offering assistance.” – Mghow, RV Park Reviews
Swan Bay Resort
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This resort campground is the premier location to take family and friends to when visiting the Thousand Islands. It comes with everything from exclusive marina access to the St. Laurence River to spacious campsites with tree cover and level concrete pads. There are tons of amenities, and the local shopping and dining opportunities are superb.
Why You’ll Love Swan Bay Resort
This resort property has everything you could ask for and more, including tons of outdoor games to play, fishing and swimming opportunities, and planned events throughout the year. There is a store on-site with groceries and other supplies, a restaurant, and a cocktail lounge. In addition, this gated community has staff on hand at all hours to take care of any problems that might arise.
What People Are Saying About Swan Bay Resort
“The price was for a waterfront site and it was indeed on the waterfront. It was a pull-in and offered great views of St Lawrence. Often saw the big ships pass while looking out the front windshield.” – Bob, RV Park Reviews
Cedar Point State Park
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This park is located in Clayton, which is about 20 minutes or so from Watertown. It is a beautiful area covered with rich forests and lined with waterways and miles of trails. From this park, you will have quick access to Alexandria Bay or Cape Vincent, and the park itself sits on the shores of the St. Laurence River.
Why You’ll Love Cedar Point State Park
There is great swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities on the St. Laurence River, and if you come to this campground, you’ll have access to boat rentals when you need them. The park is spacious with clean, level campsites, and some of them offer much-needed shade from the summer heat. There is also a convenience store across the street with groceries, supplies, and some prepared foods for those who come to Cedar Point State Park to experience some of the best RV camping near Watertown, New York.
What People Are Saying About Cedar Point State Park
“Outstanding–clean, orderly, and large sites up by the front. Places by St. Lawrence were more uneven but great views which we could go and sit by.” – Faye, RV Park Reviews
Willows on the Lake R.V. Park & Resort
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For great RV camping near Watertown, consider Willows on the Lake, which sits on the shores of Lake Ontario. This 12-acre, privately-owned RV park has everything you and the family need for a fun weekend getaway or a longer vacation. They are less than five minutes from Westcott State Park, 20 minutes from Watertown, and 45 minutes from the Thousand Islands.
Why You’ll Love Willows on the Lake R.V. Park & Resort
At this RV park near Watertown, there is great swimming, fishing, and boating on the lake. In addition, there are a bunch of games available to play, and the management offers boat rentals, RV storage, and laundry service. You’ll also find plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby.
What People Are Saying About Willows on the Lake R.V. Park & Resort
“This is a nice RV park with a bit over half the spaces taken up by seasonal/long-term units. The transient spaces are all located on the backside of the park which is closest to Highway 3.” – Amls, RV Park Reviews
Westcott Beach State Park
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This popular campground and day-use park is located on the shores of Lake Ontario. The campsites, which are nestled in the bluffs, provide nice, hidden spots with plenty of shade from the sun. If you’re looking for a great deal near the lake, this is the campground for you.
Why You’ll Love Westcott Beach State Park
This park has ample shoreline to post up on for a relaxing day of swimming, fishing, or sunbathing, and there is also a boat ramp to launch from. While the park doesn’t offer a lot of amenities, it’s perfect for those who just want excellent views of the lake. You’ll find plenty of local shops and restaurants nearby in Henderson.
What People Are Saying About Westcott Beach State Park
“Very nice local beach. You can come for the day or stay at the campgrounds. There are two sites. One is down by the water and one up on the hill overlooking the water. Beautiful in both spots. Public access to showers and facilities. Family-friendly. Inexpensive as well.” – Beth Johnson, Google Review
Southwick Beach State Park
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This is a spacious park with plenty of beach spots on Lake Ontario and over 100 campsites to choose from. The park is adjacent to the Lakeview Wildlife Management Area, which gives campers the opportunity to see a lot of different wildlife down the trails. If you like spending afternoons in the sand, this is the park for you.
Why You’ll Love Southwick Beach State Park
Between the park and the wildlife management area, there are miles of trails to hike through. In addition, there are plenty of great swimming and sunbathing opportunities on the beach. The campsites are well-shaded grass sites that offer electric hookups, and there are stores and restaurants nearby in Woodville.
What People Are Saying About Southwick Beach State Park
“Very clean state park. The toilet and showers are brand new and clean. If you want shade do not take a site in loop C (as we did) because it’s in full sunlight. Wonderful beach and kids playground.” – Chetta, RV Park Reviews
Bedford Creek Campground & Marina
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This family-owned campground offers campers a peaceful and relaxing camping experience along the shores of Lake Ontario. Since there are over 200 campsites sitting on 57 acres of land, you’ll have plenty of space at this RV park. In addition, most of the sites have shade trees and level pads.
Why You’ll Love Bedford Creek Campground & Marina
Regardless of how big your RV might be, there is more than enough room on this spacious campground. You’ll find that this is a great place to meet like-minded RVers. Campers can enjoy an assortment of games, including horseshoes, or go swimming in the lake.
What People Are Saying About Bedford Creek Campground & Marina
“This cozy spot is a great idea for a fun family camping outing! The owners are SO sweet and my son really enjoyed our visit! Bring your camper or rent a cabin, there's a marina, a playground with a giant built-in trampoline that kids just love, putt-putt, and bikes to name a few! Perfect spot to spend a quiet outdoor weekend with family with Bernardo's pizzeria and delicious ice cream shop on-site. Wish I had tried this place sooner!” – Isabella White, Google Review
Black River Bay Campground
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This quaint, peaceful campground sits on the banks of the Black River about 10 minutes away from downtown Watertown. You’ll have access to plenty of amenities at Black River Bay Campground. They are a full-service RV park offering everything from tent camping to full-hookup RV sites.
Why You’ll Love Black River Bay Campground
This park is great for those looking to relax and do some fishing or go for a swim in the Black River. When you’re ready to spend time near the water, check out the on-site boat rentals. There’s also a playground for the kids.
What People Are Saying About Black River Bay Campground
“We absolutely love this campground. The grounds are so clean and well maintained. The store is so convenient! The people were so inviting and we have established some amazing friendships. We enjoy the events and love band night! The owners are extremely pleasant and very involved. We highly recommend you come to visit. You will not be disappointed.” – Muranda, Facebook Review
In Summary
As you can see, there are plenty of great Watertown, New York, campgrounds to choose from. Depending on what your needs are, one (or more) of these parks will look more inviting than the others. It really boils down to who you’re taking, why you’re going, and how long you’re staying. Once you’re done exploring Watertown, be sure to check out some other fun RV destinations in New York.
Explore other Campgrounds & RV Parks near Watertown
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp in Watertown, New York?
How much does it cost to camp in Watertown, New York?
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
How much does it cost to RV park in Watertown, New York?
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
How long can you stay at an RV Park in Watertown, New York?
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Are there pet friendly RV Parks & Campgrounds in Watertown, New York?
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.