Lake Camping Near Watertown, New York, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Watertown, New York, with a beautiful lake? Look no further! Hipcamp offers over 230 options that fit your preferences. Whether you're into hiking, off-roading, or whitewater paddling, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your adventurous spirit. With an average price per night of $57 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. Check out these top campsites: Adirondack Adventure Base (50 reviews), Bushwood! (41 reviews), and Spring lake retreat on the farm (27 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and campfires. Start planning your camping adventure today!

95% (165)

Top-rated campgrounds

One of the barns has been converted into an event space and concert venue. Camp Benjamin hosts music groups from around the globe in the cozy space for groups up to 40 people.

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Watertown, New York, with a beautiful lake? Look no further! Hipcamp offers over 230 options that fit your preferences. Whether you're into hiking, off-roading, or whitewater paddling, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your adventurous spirit. With an average price per night of $57 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. Check out these top campsites: Adirondack Adventure Base (50 reviews), Bushwood! (41 reviews), and Spring lake retreat on the farm (27 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and campfires. Start planning your camping adventure today!

95% (165)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Benjamin

100%

(37)

46mi from Watertown · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Boonville, NY

This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Westcott Beach State Park

154 sites · Sackets Harbor, New York

Westcott Beach State Park is a day trippers delight! Snuggled up against the shore of Lake Ontario, you’ll feel renewed after a day of swimming, boating or picnicking. Jonesing to snag some dinner on your line? There’s a marina and fishing beach; and since this spot is so popular during the day, stick it out for a chill night by the cool waters. Wintertime is an escape here with cross country skiing and hiking. Overnight or not, Westcott Beach welcomes you with open arms.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Long Point State Park

80 sites · Three Mile Bay, New York

Long Point State Park is a perfect getaway for someone looking to relax on the water, maybe take the boat out or hunt for waterfowl. Even those boaters-at-heart are in luck, as Long Point has both motorized and non-motorized boats available to rent. This peninsula park has calm waters and a cool breeze that keeps away those pesky skeeters. Just about every campsite is on the water or is situated very close to it, so there doesn't have to be any thumb-wrestling for that primo spot.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Pope Family Farm

26mi from Watertown · 2 sites · Tents · Redwood, NY

We are a 22 acre hollistic homestead in the heart of a 1,000 acre nature conservancy with miles of trails, in a unique landscape, through the old lake beds of the Indian River Lakes System. There is access to 17 secluded public lakes from 3 to 20 minutes away. Some of the best fishing, kayaking and boating in the North East. Only 15 Minutes from the The Heart of the Thousand Islands, Alexandria Bay NY, is a bustling tourist town with a healthy night life. Dining, cocktails and historic downtown views of the islands.

7. 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.

8. Kasoag Lake

86%

(57)

35mi from Watertown · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · Williamstown, NY

Located on 25 acres in Northern New York. Kasoag lake is a spring fed lake and feels like the Adirondacks. Minutes away from Salmon River Falls and connected to the local Oswego Countu ATV and Kasoag Trailblazerz trails. Come relax with us and make some memories here at beautiful Kasoag Lake……..

9. Grandjean Getaway

94%

(8)

19mi from Watertown · 1 site · Tent, RV · Henderson, NY

Theres 2 nice quiet lots on a dead end road with stone driveway and grass Peaceful and quiet so you pull out the lawn chairs and sit by the campfire and enjoy some nature. Within a few minutes down the road there’s Henderson Harbor and a couple miles down the road to Sackets Harbor to enjoy little cafes and shops.

10. Southwick Beach State Park

100%

(4)

100 sites · Ellisburg, New York

Swim, sunbathe, and hike at this popular vacation destination in western New York.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Whetstone Gulf State Park

57 sites · Turin, New York

Upstate may be the best part of New York and you’ll find out why at Whetstone Beach State Park. Set in one of the prettiest gorges in the East, you’ll have access to hiking and biking trails, swimming, and playgrounds that are fun for e’rebody! Hike up the gorge for world class fishing in the reservoir and when the day is done relax under the starry sky in one of the wooded campgrounds.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Selkirk Shores State Park

100%

(3)

170 sites · Pulaski, New York

Wide open meadows, lush forest and bluffs overlooking Lake Ontario are just a FEW of our favorite things about Selkirk Shores State Park. The others? Well you can pitch your tent and have awesome water views from the campgrounds, toss your boat into the Salmon river for some stellar fishing and meandering, or head down to Sandy Island Beach State Park for a dip. Other things you can catch here include glimpses of spectacular migratory birds--all of which can be spotted while hiking or biking. And did we mention the sunsets? That's the cherry on top!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Luisa Woods

42mi from Watertown · 1 site · Tent · Camden , NY

built in 2006 lost luisa to cancer in 2013 ....it all about her 💖🪶 Learn more about this land: Tent camping; cabin nearby for emergencies. note that camping inside the cabin is not permitted only on the decks the lower deck and the upper deck this reason is for shelter From the elements.... the Outhouse on the deck is not for public use except for an extreme emergencies I'm try to have yourself some kind of portable toilet or dig a hole.... a porta potty is available at no extra cost but if you feel it you have to empty it and maintain its cleanliness

14. Back Bay Campground

33mi from Watertown · 10 sites · Lodging · Hammond, NY

Experience the beauty of nature at its finest at Back Bay Campground and Cottages. Our campsites are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Wake up to the sound of birds singing and the smell of fresh pine trees. Spend your days hiking, fishing, or simply lounging by the campfire. Our friendly staff is always here to help you make the most of your stay. Our campground includes cabins, RV sites, tents, campstore, pool, boat and pontoon rentals.

15. Cozy country camping

100%

(2)

36mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Hammond, NY

LOCATION: We are located 30 miles from Ogdensburg, NY, on Black Lake. 40 miles from Fort Drum, a good commute if you work on Drum. Hubby and I do it everyday and it isn't so bad and 2 hrs from Syracuse. Echo's gas station is located 10 minutes from us and has gas, kerosene and propane. Great pizza and wings and odds and ends. Ogdensburg has Lowe's, Aldi's and Walmart. Thousand Islands is 20 minutes from us. Mini Golf on rte 6 10-15min. Langbrook Meadows Golf is 20 minutes. State Launch Ramp is 15 minutes away. Jacques State park has a beach. AMENITIES: THE CAMPER IS ON OUR PROPERTY 100YDS FROM BLACK LAKE. You'll have full access to the Lake. So feel free to bring your kayaks, paddle boards and canoes, boats and fishing poles (great fishing). We have some kayaks you can use too with lifejackets

16. Spacious House on Pleasant Lake

12mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Carthage, NY

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake – Relax and Reconnect Escape to lakeside tranquility at our spacious home on the shores of Pleasant Lake, just minutes from Carthage, NY. With three cozy bedrooms and open gathering spaces, it’s perfect for families or small groups seeking comfort, nature, and a peaceful retreat. Enjoy easy lake access for boating, fishing, or swimming, and take in beautiful sunsets from the shoreline. The home features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. Perfect year-round — explore snowmobiling and ice fishing in winter, or warm summer days by the lake. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of space to roam. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or reconnect, this lakeside getaway offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

17. Cassetta's View

40mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · De Peyster, NY

Welcome to Cassetta's View, a camp where every moment is a chance to reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms and your own inner peace. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or simply a respite from the demands of the world, this cabin promises a slice of paradise. The camp is cozy, yet well appointed with everything you will need for a comfortable stay. The living space is one floor with 2 bedrooms, bath, kitchen (fully stocked with all cook wear and dishes and utensils), gas fireplace and screened in porch overlooking the lake. There is also a loft, that overlooks the living area with 5 beds, 2 singles, 2 doubles, and a queen. The camp is on a bank over looking the lake off a private road. Access to the lake is directly from the back right of the camp down a little path with staked in steps and a hand rail. Available for use are 3 kayaks, a canoe and 2 paddle boats for your enjoyment along with life vests. Guests have access to the entire house, use of the yard, propane grill, fire pit, 3 kayaks, a canoe, and a 2 paddle boats. Guests are also able to enjoy walking the private road around the lake. Bug Spray is provided but feel free to bring your own. I supply the brand OFF. Please respect any neighbors, property, and obey all posted signs. Guests will not have access to the shed. Please be respectful of the camp as I am opening my getaway home to share its beauty with you. All I ask is you respect and treat it as your own. Rural, secluded, wooded area in Amish country, roads are shared with horse and buggies please use caution. Then road to the camp is accessible by gravel/dirt private road. Blind curves and narrow road, again please use caution. Camp is located not too far from exploring surrounding areas like Black Lake, the Thousand Islands, Canada, Sackets Harbor, Clayton, Alexandria Bay and Watertown, and the Adirondack Park. They all are within a day's travel. The water is supplied by a spring fed well and is perfectly safe to drink, shower, and cook with. The lake is private and unfortunately offers no public access for motorized boats.

Camper favorites near Watertown

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Grandjean Getaway

94%

(8)

19mi from Watertown · 1 site · Tent, RV · Henderson, NY

Theres 2 nice quiet lots on a dead end road with stone driveway and grass Peaceful and quiet so you pull out the lawn chairs and sit by the campfire and enjoy some nature. Within a few minutes down the road there’s Henderson Harbor and a couple miles down the road to Sackets Harbor to enjoy little cafes and shops.

Luisa Woods

42mi from Watertown · 1 site · Tent · Camden , NY

built in 2006 lost luisa to cancer in 2013 ....it all about her 💖🪶 Learn more about this land: Tent camping; cabin nearby for emergencies. note that camping inside the cabin is not permitted only on the decks the lower deck and the upper deck this reason is for shelter From the elements.... the Outhouse on the deck is not for public use except for an extreme emergencies I'm try to have yourself some kind of portable toilet or dig a hole.... a porta potty is available at no extra cost but if you feel it you have to empty it and maintain its cleanliness

Back Bay Campground

33mi from Watertown · 10 sites · Lodging · Hammond, NY

Experience the beauty of nature at its finest at Back Bay Campground and Cottages. Our campsites are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Wake up to the sound of birds singing and the smell of fresh pine trees. Spend your days hiking, fishing, or simply lounging by the campfire. Our friendly staff is always here to help you make the most of your stay. Our campground includes cabins, RV sites, tents, campstore, pool, boat and pontoon rentals.

Cozy country camping

100%

(2)

36mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Hammond, NY

LOCATION: We are located 30 miles from Ogdensburg, NY, on Black Lake. 40 miles from Fort Drum, a good commute if you work on Drum. Hubby and I do it everyday and it isn't so bad and 2 hrs from Syracuse. Echo's gas station is located 10 minutes from us and has gas, kerosene and propane. Great pizza and wings and odds and ends. Ogdensburg has Lowe's, Aldi's and Walmart. Thousand Islands is 20 minutes from us. Mini Golf on rte 6 10-15min. Langbrook Meadows Golf is 20 minutes. State Launch Ramp is 15 minutes away. Jacques State park has a beach. AMENITIES: THE CAMPER IS ON OUR PROPERTY 100YDS FROM BLACK LAKE. You'll have full access to the Lake. So feel free to bring your kayaks, paddle boards and canoes, boats and fishing poles (great fishing). We have some kayaks you can use too with lifejackets

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake

12mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · Carthage, NY

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake – Relax and Reconnect Escape to lakeside tranquility at our spacious home on the shores of Pleasant Lake, just minutes from Carthage, NY. With three cozy bedrooms and open gathering spaces, it’s perfect for families or small groups seeking comfort, nature, and a peaceful retreat. Enjoy easy lake access for boating, fishing, or swimming, and take in beautiful sunsets from the shoreline. The home features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. Perfect year-round — explore snowmobiling and ice fishing in winter, or warm summer days by the lake. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of space to roam. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or reconnect, this lakeside getaway offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

Cassetta's View

40mi from Watertown · 1 site · Lodging · De Peyster, NY

Welcome to Cassetta's View, a camp where every moment is a chance to reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms and your own inner peace. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or simply a respite from the demands of the world, this cabin promises a slice of paradise. The camp is cozy, yet well appointed with everything you will need for a comfortable stay. The living space is one floor with 2 bedrooms, bath, kitchen (fully stocked with all cook wear and dishes and utensils), gas fireplace and screened in porch overlooking the lake. There is also a loft, that overlooks the living area with 5 beds, 2 singles, 2 doubles, and a queen. The camp is on a bank over looking the lake off a private road. Access to the lake is directly from the back right of the camp down a little path with staked in steps and a hand rail. Available for use are 3 kayaks, a canoe and 2 paddle boats for your enjoyment along with life vests. Guests have access to the entire house, use of the yard, propane grill, fire pit, 3 kayaks, a canoe, and a 2 paddle boats. Guests are also able to enjoy walking the private road around the lake. Bug Spray is provided but feel free to bring your own. I supply the brand OFF. Please respect any neighbors, property, and obey all posted signs. Guests will not have access to the shed. Please be respectful of the camp as I am opening my getaway home to share its beauty with you. All I ask is you respect and treat it as your own. Rural, secluded, wooded area in Amish country, roads are shared with horse and buggies please use caution. Then road to the camp is accessible by gravel/dirt private road. Blind curves and narrow road, again please use caution. Camp is located not too far from exploring surrounding areas like Black Lake, the Thousand Islands, Canada, Sackets Harbor, Clayton, Alexandria Bay and Watertown, and the Adirondack Park. They all are within a day's travel. The water is supplied by a spring fed well and is perfectly safe to drink, shower, and cook with. The lake is private and unfortunately offers no public access for motorized boats.

Public campgrounds near Watertown

Westcott Beach State Campground

11mi from Watertown · 154 sites · Tents, RVs · in Westcott Beach State Park

Long Point State Park Campground

16mi from Watertown · 80 sites · Tents, RVs · in Long Point State Park

100%

(4)

Southwick Beach State Park Campground

21mi from Watertown · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Southwick Beach State Park

Whetstone Gulf State Campground

29mi from Watertown · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Whetstone Gulf State Park

100%

(3)

Selkirk Shores State Park Campground

32mi from Watertown · 170 sites · Tents, RVs · in Selkirk Shores State Park

Stories from the community

Annelise

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp Benjamin

Great stay on a really cool piece of property. My boyfriend and I stayed a short night and we wished we stayed longer - next time! Ben is awesome and showed us around his place, such a cool spot, and close to so many beautiful nature spots as well. We're putting it on our bucket list to come back again and stay longer! Thanks so much Ben for your hospitality and kindness!

F

Freddie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kasoag Lake

Good and easy communication from the host. Thank you!

S

Steven

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

We came up for the Columbus Day weekend to get one final go at filling the freezer with salmon for the year. The River did not disappoint as we had some of the best fishing in years. The camping spot was perfect for what we needed as well. Ample space to position and set up our pop-up camp. Bathroom and water were close by, as well was use of a pavilion and blackstone (though we did use them). Firewood and a ring were provided at our site. Drinking water was provided at the roadside store. Hosts were very accommodating, personable, and eager to show us around. Thanks again.

M

Marie

September 2025

1 night at Camp Benjamin

We only stayed one night but had a lovely time. Benjamin was very helpful and gave us great tips for hikes in the area. Definitely recommend!

K

Kiowa

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

We loved tent camping at this secluded spot! Plenty of space. Farmer Dick made sure we had everything we needed. Plenty of wood at a reasonable price. The pond was lovely for a quick kayak paddle and a little fishing- too cool to swim when we were there. Don’t be spooked by the beavers splooshes!! They sound like someone throwing rocks into the pond!

T

Tori

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!

Beaver spread was a great site. Area had a really cool and fun zip line into the water! Canoes and boats were out for use and were in good shape! Other people in the area were super friendly and helpful! Would stay here again.

S

Stephanie

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grandjean Getaway

Nice quiet safe spot. Easy to find. Bring bug spray!

Linda

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Kasoag Lake

Close to water and ATV trails start right at camp grounds Close short ride to stores and gas. Nice ATV ride to salmon river to go swimming. However a lot of traffic (cars motorcycles and ATV going by camp site till late hours. So no early to bed People very friendly

J

Jason

July 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Kasoag Lake

Jay’s spot was pretty awesome. The land sits on a beautiful lake with tons to do and also a great bar/tavern.

S

Scott

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kasoag Lake

Kasoag Lake is a beautiful lake hidden in Williamstown NY with four wheeler trails that go right through the property. We had a great weekend there. We look forward to going back up.

Kym

July 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grandjean Getaway

Clean, neat, well maintained. Beautiful camping spot, electric (our pup was thankful for the air conditioning in 90+ degree temperatures). Easily accessible to multiple state parks in the area. Would also recommend visiting Henderson, Henderson Harbor, Sackett’s Harbor, Cape Vincent, Clayton. Alex Bay was much more “old boardwalk, touristy, kinda commercial” than I remembered from 20 years ago. Really fun weekend ~ Grandjean was as advertised ~ thank you!!

a

amit

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cozy country camping

This RV stay was a fantastic outdoor escape, with a cozy campfire stealing the show. The supportive host quickly met all our requests, making the experience seamless. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a simple, relaxing getaway. Highly recommend!

T

Teresa

June 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Grandjean Getaway

Nice for when you need electric. Quiet street and close to water access. Have to finagle a bit to get clear sky for Starlink

E

Ella

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beaver Camp

We loved staying at Beaver Lake Camp! The seclusion on chicken coop island was perfect and made for a perfect long weekend trip. Our favorite part was taking a sunset paddle around the lake and seeing beavers, turtles, and loons up close.

M

Michael

May 2025

1 night at Camp Benjamin

The property is beautiful and the hosts were super hospitable, showed us around, gave recommendations about local food options and hikes, and offered us coffee in the morning. We stayed in the en-suite cabin and it’s small yet had small fridge and tv. Bed was comfortable and we appreciated how clean and unscented everything was.

M

Michael

May 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Kasoag Lake

Always love staying here!! We are repeat visitors and Jay and staff have always been great.