A-frame cabins near Watertown

The small town of Watertown sits less than an hour's drive south of the Canada/New York border. The famous Thousand Islands dot the Saint Lawrence River, providing 50 miles of tremendous sightseeing along the coast. Wellesley Island State Park offers the largest camping area in the islands region. Picnic tables and a playground recreation area make this a good spot for family fun.

As the name implies, there are plenty of other options here for Hipcampers who love to be by the water. Head southwest to reach Westcott Beach State Park on the shores of Lake Ontario. Boat ramps and a connected marina make this an excellent choice for those who enjoy bass fishing. There's also a tremendous view of the Great Lake from the tent camping area—don't miss out!

Head just a little northeast from Watertown proper for a different kind of waterfront experience. The Black River Trail runs through woodland and along the titular river for about 3.5 miles. Jog or bike it in the summer, or visit in winter and slap on some snowshoes for a memorable evening.

All the waterfront in and around the town does mean that temperatures can get bracingly cold in winter. Average highs are at or below freezing from December to February! Summer months are nearly perfect, though. Expect highs in between 70 and 80 from June through September.