Camping near Watertown

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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.

95% (545)

Top-rated campgrounds

Stars and Sage

1. Stars and Sage

100%
(5)
37mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Mexico, NY
Our property will someday be our forever home but in the meantime we have decided to share this beautiful place with others. We will be under construction for quite sometime but we feel this is still an amazing location to enjoy. We will offer two spots to rent . One is a camping spot where you will bring your own camping supplies . The other is a glamping site where we offer a cozy canvas tent with a woodstove available situated right on the water for a magical view.Learn more about this land:Stars and Sage is a one acre wooded area on a beautiful stream. The stream Sage creek runs right along the property. This property is also on the Oswego County Snowmobile trail. This offers a great place for snowmobiling guests to stay overnight if you are brave enough to camp in a NY winter. If you are staying during another season you can walk the snowmobile trail. We are also in a very popular area to the Amish. They are great neighbors and we are sure you will see them pass by regularly with their horse and buggy. The property is also next to a show horse farm that has two donkeys so be prepared to hear them also . Very entertaining. We are currently a new site and are doing construction on the land. Please be patient with us. We have one other listing on the land so there may be times you do see other guests. We have a home under construction on the property so we also may be there at times. This site gives you a quiet wooded area to camp for the night or two with a porta potty for luxury camping. This site allows you to have a quiet place to camp without a lot of people and kid free. Most campgrounds have children but Stars and Sage does not allow children. Please feel free to bring your own camping needs as we only provide a fire area. The site is approximately 19 feet by 39 feet in dimension. You will be close to Mexico village and about 20 minutes from the city of Oswego. Plenty of biking areas all around . Enjoy a hike in the trail or take a short trip to Mexico point to put your Canoe or kayaks in to enjoy Lake Ontario. Lake Ontario is well known for fishing. You may see deer, Fox, muskrat, etc. you may hear coyotes in the distance. A flash light and a hatchet and bug spray are definitely recommended to have on hand.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night
Better Farm

2. Better Farm

100%
(17)
24mi from Watertown · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging · Redwood, NY
Better Farm is a 65-acre organic farm, animal sanctuary, artist colony, and retreat space. The property features forests, rolling hills, open fields, a pond, sauna, various paddocks for the rescued farm animals, organic gardens, a two-story Art Barn with local FM radio station, gallery, studio and recording space, and a second barn used for events. This second-generation property began as a 1970s commune that since 2009 has been revived and renovated to provide overnight lodging, event space, residencies, and educational opportunities for the curious and creative. The farm is 10 short miles from the St. Lawrence River and Thousand Islands of Northern New York. The area is a naturalist's paradise, with countless outdoor opportunities to enjoy from boating and swimming to snowshoeing and hiking. There are more than a dozen lakes within 10 minutes of the property, with cute towns to explore including Sackets Harbor, Clayton, Alexandria Bay, and Wellesley Island.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Sun Outdoors Association Island

6. Sun Outdoors Association Island

16mi from Watertown · 268 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Henderson, NY
Discover the unparalleled charm of Sun Outdoors Association Island, a unique campground nestled on a stunning 65-acre island dedicated to providing an exceptional getaway experience. This exclusive destination offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that everyone has a fantastic time. At Association Island, you can immerse yourself in a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing in the pristine waters of Lake Ontario, or explore the lake by kayaking and pedal boating. For those looking to stay active, the campground features a refreshing pool, basketball courts, and shuffleboard courts, catering to all ages and interests. With an array of amenities and unique spaces available for special events, Association Island is the ideal location for creating lasting memories. Pack your bags and cross the bridge to this idyllic island retreat, where breathtaking sunset views and endless opportunities for fun await you. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a group getaway, or simply a weekend escape, Association Island promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
Nature's Heritage Farm

8. Nature's Heritage Farm

92%
(6)
21mi from Watertown · 9 sites · Tents · Natural Bridge, NY
Nature's Heritage Farm is a beautiful wooded farm in the Adirondack foothills. We consider ourselves stewards of our land, and thus draw from permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and other natural farming methods to rebuild soil and ecosystem health, raise delicious food and happy animals. We have a rabbit colony, a couple horses, a flock of chickens, and a family of miniature donkeys too! We're happy to give you a tour and introduction to them. You'll love seeing our historic bank barn, and Momma Donk is guaranteed to win you over with her love of ear scratches. Nature's Heritage Farm is excited to offer DAY TRIPS to the farm!! Come get a tour, learn about all the animals, enjoy lots of snuggles and pets, and then enjoy the property for the day! We have a great play area for the kids, beautiful hiking, and more. Message us to schedule your day trip & tour! We offer primitive tent campsites. No electric or toilets are available at this time. However, we can offer a number of services and rentals, including all of the camping gear you could need. Want the fun of camping without the half day spent setting up? Let us know, we'll have a tent ready and waiting with cots, camp kitchen and supplies ready to go! Most of the property is woods (pine plantation and natural hard wood forest) crisscrossed by park like trails. You can count on finding some peace and solitude if that is what you desire. Also, there are many state parks, preserves, lakes, rivers and other enjoyable attractions nearby. Our hilltop campsite is a dark site, and you can get a wonderful, clear view of the stars! Nearby Attractions include: - Baker Woods Preserve - Turning Point Park - New York Zoo - Numerous Adirondacks parks, hikes and peaks - within day trip distance of the Thousand Islands and the Wild Center! Note that this property is near Fort Drum, so sometimes you can hear their munitions practice in the distance.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night
Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

14. Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

93%
(23)
34mi from Watertown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pulaski, NY
Welcome to Grindstone Farm, a well-established organic farm in Upstate New York, near Lake Ontario and the famous Salmon River of Pulaski, NY. We specialize in premium organic produce, particularly our asparagus and blueberries. Our farm features a beautiful blueberry pond where we host campers, farm to table dinners, music festivals and events. Our current camping area is a private rustic space with water views around our blueberry pond, tucked away from the main roads. We can accommodate RVs and also offer rustic cabins, although they have not yet been opened for the season. Currently, we welcome all car and tent campers. If interested in rustic cabin inquire about availability. We will always take special request and needs under consideration, so always feel free to reach out. Amenities include flushing toilets, a covered pavilion with accessible grills, tenting sites, washing stations, a fire area, and during the summer months, kayaking and swimming. Local attractions and sites, if you choose to leave our little slice of heaven include.... Lake Ontario Beaches and kayaking waterways, Salmon River and Salmon River Fishing, and Salmon River Falls (beautiful 110 ft waterfall), with of course limitless day trips in every direction. Consider us for your intimate camping excursions, when you seek just peace and nature, but also for large groups and celebrations. Join us as well, for our hosted events such as music, food, festivals, etc where events will be announced primarily on Instagram and Facebook.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Beaver Camp

15. Beaver Camp

100%
(12)
38mi from Watertown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lowville, NY
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, this 87-acre expanse of forest, streams, and lake is the perfect escape from the business of life. Located in the Adirondack State Park directly on Beaver Lake, we have access to the lake and Beaver River flow and the wide expanse of forests and trails of the park. With heated cabins, water and electric RV sites, and outdoor tenting areas, we provide a camping experience that can be tailored to fit the needs of small and large groups. Whether it's cozying up around the fire in one of our indoor lounging areas; pitching a tent at our outpost camp lean-to site in the middle of the woods; sipping complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, or tea as you watch the sunrise over the lake; or hiking through the woods (or across the lake when its frozen over) and watching the wildlife, Beaver Camp offers a great opportunity to unplug and soak in the peace and quiet of nature.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Trailside Ranch Cabin Rentals

19. Trailside Ranch Cabin Rentals

94%
(35)
40mi from Watertown · 6 sites · Lodging · Glenfield, NY
YOUR CABIN IS WAITING FOR YOU! TRAILSIDERANCH IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND. This family friendly 10 acre off the grid ranch is located inside the Adirondack Park. We are at the end of Partridgeville Road and the beginning of Paradise in beautiful Brantingham NY Trailside Ranch is surrounded by the pristine 76,000-acre Independence River Wild Forest Preserve. It is linked to 65 miles of Horse trails, hundreds of miles of Snowmobile trails and to the nearly 600 miles of ATV trails. If you are looking for the full wilderness experience, you can hike right from your cabin! We also offer on-site snowmobile rentals in the winter and S x S rentals in the summer. You can hire our local guide to explore the area or if you are comfortable with a map and directions, we can give you details of some amazing scenery to see. Ask us about our rentals if you are interested in this adventure. Your time here will be something your entire family will remember for a lifetime.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$190
 / night

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.

95% (545)

Top-rated campgrounds

Stars and Sage

1. Stars and Sage

100%
(5)
37mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Mexico, NY
Our property will someday be our forever home but in the meantime we have decided to share this beautiful place with others. We will be under construction for quite sometime but we feel this is still an amazing location to enjoy. We will offer two spots to rent . One is a camping spot where you will bring your own camping supplies . The other is a glamping site where we offer a cozy canvas tent with a woodstove available situated right on the water for a magical view.Learn more about this land:Stars and Sage is a one acre wooded area on a beautiful stream. The stream Sage creek runs right along the property. This property is also on the Oswego County Snowmobile trail. This offers a great place for snowmobiling guests to stay overnight if you are brave enough to camp in a NY winter. If you are staying during another season you can walk the snowmobile trail. We are also in a very popular area to the Amish. They are great neighbors and we are sure you will see them pass by regularly with their horse and buggy. The property is also next to a show horse farm that has two donkeys so be prepared to hear them also . Very entertaining. We are currently a new site and are doing construction on the land. Please be patient with us. We have one other listing on the land so there may be times you do see other guests. We have a home under construction on the property so we also may be there at times. This site gives you a quiet wooded area to camp for the night or two with a porta potty for luxury camping. This site allows you to have a quiet place to camp without a lot of people and kid free. Most campgrounds have children but Stars and Sage does not allow children. Please feel free to bring your own camping needs as we only provide a fire area. The site is approximately 19 feet by 39 feet in dimension. You will be close to Mexico village and about 20 minutes from the city of Oswego. Plenty of biking areas all around . Enjoy a hike in the trail or take a short trip to Mexico point to put your Canoe or kayaks in to enjoy Lake Ontario. Lake Ontario is well known for fishing. You may see deer, Fox, muskrat, etc. you may hear coyotes in the distance. A flash light and a hatchet and bug spray are definitely recommended to have on hand.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night
Better Farm

2. Better Farm

100%
(17)
24mi from Watertown · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging · Redwood, NY
Better Farm is a 65-acre organic farm, animal sanctuary, artist colony, and retreat space. The property features forests, rolling hills, open fields, a pond, sauna, various paddocks for the rescued farm animals, organic gardens, a two-story Art Barn with local FM radio station, gallery, studio and recording space, and a second barn used for events. This second-generation property began as a 1970s commune that since 2009 has been revived and renovated to provide overnight lodging, event space, residencies, and educational opportunities for the curious and creative. The farm is 10 short miles from the St. Lawrence River and Thousand Islands of Northern New York. The area is a naturalist's paradise, with countless outdoor opportunities to enjoy from boating and swimming to snowshoeing and hiking. There are more than a dozen lakes within 10 minutes of the property, with cute towns to explore including Sackets Harbor, Clayton, Alexandria Bay, and Wellesley Island.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Sun Outdoors Association Island

6. Sun Outdoors Association Island

16mi from Watertown · 268 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Henderson, NY
Discover the unparalleled charm of Sun Outdoors Association Island, a unique campground nestled on a stunning 65-acre island dedicated to providing an exceptional getaway experience. This exclusive destination offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that everyone has a fantastic time. At Association Island, you can immerse yourself in a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing in the pristine waters of Lake Ontario, or explore the lake by kayaking and pedal boating. For those looking to stay active, the campground features a refreshing pool, basketball courts, and shuffleboard courts, catering to all ages and interests. With an array of amenities and unique spaces available for special events, Association Island is the ideal location for creating lasting memories. Pack your bags and cross the bridge to this idyllic island retreat, where breathtaking sunset views and endless opportunities for fun await you. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a group getaway, or simply a weekend escape, Association Island promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
Nature's Heritage Farm

8. Nature's Heritage Farm

92%
(6)
21mi from Watertown · 9 sites · Tents · Natural Bridge, NY
Nature's Heritage Farm is a beautiful wooded farm in the Adirondack foothills. We consider ourselves stewards of our land, and thus draw from permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and other natural farming methods to rebuild soil and ecosystem health, raise delicious food and happy animals. We have a rabbit colony, a couple horses, a flock of chickens, and a family of miniature donkeys too! We're happy to give you a tour and introduction to them. You'll love seeing our historic bank barn, and Momma Donk is guaranteed to win you over with her love of ear scratches. Nature's Heritage Farm is excited to offer DAY TRIPS to the farm!! Come get a tour, learn about all the animals, enjoy lots of snuggles and pets, and then enjoy the property for the day! We have a great play area for the kids, beautiful hiking, and more. Message us to schedule your day trip & tour! We offer primitive tent campsites. No electric or toilets are available at this time. However, we can offer a number of services and rentals, including all of the camping gear you could need. Want the fun of camping without the half day spent setting up? Let us know, we'll have a tent ready and waiting with cots, camp kitchen and supplies ready to go! Most of the property is woods (pine plantation and natural hard wood forest) crisscrossed by park like trails. You can count on finding some peace and solitude if that is what you desire. Also, there are many state parks, preserves, lakes, rivers and other enjoyable attractions nearby. Our hilltop campsite is a dark site, and you can get a wonderful, clear view of the stars! Nearby Attractions include: - Baker Woods Preserve - Turning Point Park - New York Zoo - Numerous Adirondacks parks, hikes and peaks - within day trip distance of the Thousand Islands and the Wild Center! Note that this property is near Fort Drum, so sometimes you can hear their munitions practice in the distance.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night
Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

14. Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

93%
(23)
34mi from Watertown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pulaski, NY
Welcome to Grindstone Farm, a well-established organic farm in Upstate New York, near Lake Ontario and the famous Salmon River of Pulaski, NY. We specialize in premium organic produce, particularly our asparagus and blueberries. Our farm features a beautiful blueberry pond where we host campers, farm to table dinners, music festivals and events. Our current camping area is a private rustic space with water views around our blueberry pond, tucked away from the main roads. We can accommodate RVs and also offer rustic cabins, although they have not yet been opened for the season. Currently, we welcome all car and tent campers. If interested in rustic cabin inquire about availability. We will always take special request and needs under consideration, so always feel free to reach out. Amenities include flushing toilets, a covered pavilion with accessible grills, tenting sites, washing stations, a fire area, and during the summer months, kayaking and swimming. Local attractions and sites, if you choose to leave our little slice of heaven include.... Lake Ontario Beaches and kayaking waterways, Salmon River and Salmon River Fishing, and Salmon River Falls (beautiful 110 ft waterfall), with of course limitless day trips in every direction. Consider us for your intimate camping excursions, when you seek just peace and nature, but also for large groups and celebrations. Join us as well, for our hosted events such as music, food, festivals, etc where events will be announced primarily on Instagram and Facebook.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Beaver Camp

15. Beaver Camp

100%
(12)
38mi from Watertown · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lowville, NY
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, this 87-acre expanse of forest, streams, and lake is the perfect escape from the business of life. Located in the Adirondack State Park directly on Beaver Lake, we have access to the lake and Beaver River flow and the wide expanse of forests and trails of the park. With heated cabins, water and electric RV sites, and outdoor tenting areas, we provide a camping experience that can be tailored to fit the needs of small and large groups. Whether it's cozying up around the fire in one of our indoor lounging areas; pitching a tent at our outpost camp lean-to site in the middle of the woods; sipping complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, or tea as you watch the sunrise over the lake; or hiking through the woods (or across the lake when its frozen over) and watching the wildlife, Beaver Camp offers a great opportunity to unplug and soak in the peace and quiet of nature.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Trailside Ranch Cabin Rentals

19. Trailside Ranch Cabin Rentals

94%
(35)
40mi from Watertown · 6 sites · Lodging · Glenfield, NY
YOUR CABIN IS WAITING FOR YOU! TRAILSIDERANCH IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND. This family friendly 10 acre off the grid ranch is located inside the Adirondack Park. We are at the end of Partridgeville Road and the beginning of Paradise in beautiful Brantingham NY Trailside Ranch is surrounded by the pristine 76,000-acre Independence River Wild Forest Preserve. It is linked to 65 miles of Horse trails, hundreds of miles of Snowmobile trails and to the nearly 600 miles of ATV trails. If you are looking for the full wilderness experience, you can hike right from your cabin! We also offer on-site snowmobile rentals in the winter and S x S rentals in the summer. You can hire our local guide to explore the area or if you are comfortable with a map and directions, we can give you details of some amazing scenery to see. Ask us about our rentals if you are interested in this adventure. Your time here will be something your entire family will remember for a lifetime.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$190
 / night

Camper favorites near Watertown

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Watertown

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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field