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Cross Lake Campground & RV Park Introduce

Finding a destination that combines natural beauty with a welcoming community atmosphere is a priority for many families in the New York region. Cross Lake Campground & RV Park, located in the charming town of Cato, stands as a prime example of Upstate New York hospitality. This family-owned and operated retreat is nestled along the shores of Cross Lake, offering a serene escape that captures the essence of the Finger Lakes region. Known for its "people-filled" and lively environment, the park is a popular choice for both weekend travelers and seasonal residents who seek a stable, fun-loving place to call their home away from home.

The spirit of Cross Lake Campground & RV Park is deeply rooted in its status as a family business. Residents and visitors alike often point to the owner and his family as the driving force behind the park's positive culture. With a focus on creating a safe and enjoyable environment, the management enforces respectful park rules that ensure everyone—from the youngest children to long-term seasonal campers—can enjoy their stay in peace. Whether you are coming to visit a friend or looking to establish a seasonal base, the community-centric layout and the scenic backdrop of the lake make it a standout destination in Central New York.

Location and accessibility are among the top reasons travelers choose this Cato destination. The campground is located at 11180 Duger Rd, Cato, NY 13033, USA. Positioned strategically within the Finger Lakes area, it is approximately 21 minutes from Syracuse and within an hour's drive of major hubs like Rochester and Utica. This makes it an ideal spot for local New Yorkers looking for a quick getaway that feels worlds apart from the daily grind. The park is situated right on the water, providing direct access to the beauty of Cross Lake, where the water often meets the grassy edges of the park, creating an immersive natural experience.

Accessibility for all guests is a high priority at Cross Lake Campground & RV Park. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the check-in process and arrival are smooth for everyone. Furthermore, the park provides wheelchair-accessible restrooms, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. On-site parking is plentiful and well-organized, allowing guests to transition from their vehicles to their campsites with ease, even when the park is at its busiest during peak summer weekends.

The services offered at Cross Lake Campground & RV Park are designed to cater to a variety of camping styles, with a particular emphasis on the needs of modern RVers. The park manages a mix of site types, ensuring that whether you have a large 5th-wheel or a simple tent, your infrastructure needs are met. The park is well-equipped to handle short-term vacations and the more permanent arrangements of seasonal campers.

  • Full-service RV camping sites with options for 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups.
  • Dedicated tent sites for those seeking a more traditional and rustic camping experience.
  • Water and sewer connections at select sites to facilitate extended stays.
  • On-site management and maintenance to ensure the grounds and facilities remain in top condition.
  • A convenient on-site marina and boat launch (subject to local water levels) for easy lake access.
  • Flexible payment options, including the acceptance of major credit cards and debit cards for all park transactions.
  • Professional assistance for seasonal applicants, including a dedicated waiting list process.
  • Regularly maintained public restrooms and showering facilities for guest convenience.

The features and highlights of the campground center on family engagement and the unique geography of Cross Lake. The park is a haven for those who enjoy being active outdoors, providing a range of amenities that encourage social interaction and physical play. From the laughter at the playground to the quiet focus of fishing on the lake, the highlights reflect a well-rounded recreational experience.

  • A large, vibrant playground area featuring modern slides and swings that are a hit with younger campers.
  • Direct access to Cross Lake for fishing, boating, and kayaking, with scenic views that change with the seasons.
  • Well-maintained picnic tables at each site, perfect for family meals and outdoor gatherings.
  • Spacious grassy areas that accommodate large RVs and provide room for outdoor lawn games.
  • A recreation hall and planned community events that foster a neighborly atmosphere among campers.
  • A pet-friendly environment where responsible owners can bring their dogs to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Hayrides and other seasonal organized activities that are a tradition for many regular visitors.
  • Proximity to local attractions like wineries and nature centers, providing ample day-trip opportunities.

For those interested in booking a site or learning more about the seasonal camping options at Cross Lake, the management team is available via phone and on-site. Given the park's popularity, especially for seasonal spots, it is highly recommended to call ahead to discuss current availability and park policies.

Address: 11180 Duger Rd, Cato, NY 13033, USA

Phone: (315) 626-4048

Mobile Phone: +1 315-626-4048

What is worth choosing at Cross Lake Campground & RV Park is the opportunity to be part of an authentic, active community. Unlike more secluded or "quiet-only" parks, this destination thrives on the energy of its guests. It is the ideal choice for families who want their children to make friends at the playground and for RVers who enjoy the social aspect of camping. The fact that many guests have been returning for five years or more—and eventually transitioning to seasonal status—is a powerful testament to the quality of the experience and the fairness of the management.

Additionally, the location on Cross Lake itself is a significant draw. The ability to have the water "come right up to you" provides a unique aesthetic and recreational value that is hard to find in landlocked parks. For the avid angler or boater, the convenience of having the lake as your backyard cannot be overstated. When you combine the natural beauty of the waterfront with the professional, family-oriented management style, Cross Lake Campground & RV Park emerges as one of the premier choices for anyone looking to experience the heart of New York’s outdoor culture.

Location

Customer Reviews

4.0
110 reviews
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Jessica Casillo' Williams
Jun 02, 2025

Checked out the area on my way home! It was a huge RV park! The Marina was flooded, so I couldn't get down to the water, but the water came right up to you! Seems like a fun people filled place to camp!

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KDEVEN
Jul 03, 2020

Been coming here for the past 5 years, visiting a friend, loved it so much...I’ve gone seasonal. You have many great people, the owner and his family make for a great experience, as long as you abide by park rules. 🎉😃

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Christina L
Aug 18, 2020

Absolutely love this place. Lots of stuff to do and the owner is great. Hope to be back soon. The included picture does no justice of the campground, this is outback , where the boat launch is . Also a nice area to take a quick dip.

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Vendamae Harris
Jun 29, 2020

I have been camping at Cross Lake Campground for 19 years now, and my family loves it there. There is a nice pond for fishing, and a nice playground for the kids to play on. The owners are wonderful, always very nice and respectful to my entire family, I camp with my parents, my husband and my young daughter. Other campers are friendly and inviting. I love that the owners have different activities that they put on, including bringing in bands for everyone to enjoy. I cant wait to go camping there again soon! Definitely a great place to get away and relax!

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patty tingue
Jun 01, 2021

We camp in the new part, we really like it here, Scott the owner is great, works very long hours and hard to get the sites ready. The sites are large and the people around us are great. Had some fun activities over the week end for the little ones and great band for the adults. Great place to make new friends and lots of fun memories.