In a recent ranking by Hipcamp—a trusted camping platform for booking unique outdoor stays— one lakeside campground stood out as the best beach campground in the entire state.
Smith Memorial Park, located in the tiny town of Hector, NY, took the crown—and it offers way more than just a place to pitch a tent.
Nestled on the shores of Seneca Lake, the beach-y campground boasts stunning lake views, access to swimming beaches, and proximity to the famed Finger Lakes wine trail, making it a destination unlike any other.
While a little bit of an excursion away at around four hours from NYC, this hidden gem is perfect for city dwellers craving a nature escape with a little extra charm.
Picture waking up to serene waters, spending your days kayaking or swimming, and capping off your evenings under the stars by a campfire.
What a Smith Memorial Park Campground experience looks like
Smith Memorial Park Campground stands out for its blend of natural beauty and recreational options.
Located on the western shore of Seneca Lake, one of the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes, it boasts a sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Plus, the calm waters make it an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while the campground’s shaded sites provide comfort and privacy.
Families and campers of all kinds love the mix of amenities here — from clean restrooms and showers to picnic tables and fire rings at each site.
Thanks to its proximity to Finger Lakes wine country, visitors can easily explore renowned vineyards and tasting rooms just minutes away, creating a unique blend of outdoor adventure and sophisticated leisure.
One local favorite? Stop by Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, just a short drive away, for some of the region’s best Rieslings—perfect for unwinding after a day on the lake.
For hikers, the nearby Watkins Glen State Park offers breathtaking waterfalls and trails that are a must-see when you’re in the area.
With a laid-back vibe and stunning natural surroundings, Smith Memorial Park feels more like a hidden lakeside resort than your typical campground. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the region’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and charming small towns.
But Smith Memorial Park isn’t the only standout.
Hipcamp’s top 12 list features a mix of family-friendly and secluded spots scattered across the state, from the peaceful Mountaineer Campground in Tupper Lake to the cozy Bare Camping in Stony Point.
See the full list below and if you need even more inspiration, check out our guides on the best campground in the Northeast and the full list of best camping grounds near NYC.
The top 12 beach campgrounds in New York, according to Hipcamp
- Smith Memorial Park Campground – Hector, NY
- Mountaineer Campground @ Massawepie – Tupper Lake, NY
- Bare Camping – Stony Point, NY
- Wakonda Family Campground: Site B15 – Pottersville, NY
- Wood Spring Club, Inc – East Aurora, NY
- Bridgeview Harbour Marina – Port Henry, NY
- Ugly Apple Farms – Port Jervis, NY
- The Spotted Sandpiper – Trumansburg, NY
- Big Indian Wilderness Paradise – Big Indian, NY
- Letchworth Valley Campground & Resort – Bliss, NY
- The Heron Farm & Event Center – Panama, NY
- Spring lake retreat on the farm – Wolcott, NY
What to know before you go
Smith Memorial Park is open seasonally through October 15, but prime lake weather is happening right now through late summer.
Since the campground is gaining buzz, it’s best to book in advance — especially for weekend stays.
- 📍 Location: 5303 Park Ave, Hector, NY
- 🏕 Nightly Rates: $30–$35 for tent or RV sites
- 🌊 Amenities: Lake access, boat launch, beach area, restrooms, fire rings, pavilion
- 🍷 Nearby: Dozens of Finger Lakes wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail
- ✅ Booking: Reservations are open and available now