Merry Knoll Campground

For New Yorkers seeking a tranquil escape to the legendary Thousand Islands region, Merry Knoll Campground offers a quintessential riverfront experience. Located in Clayton, New York, this family-owned and operated destination has become a beloved staple for local campers who value immaculate grounds and genuine hospitality. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the main channel of the St. Lawrence River, the campground provides a front-row seat to the majestic sight of massive ocean-bound tankers gliding past the islands—a spectacle that remains a highlight for guests of all ages. Whether you are a weekend warrior from Syracuse or a long-term traveler exploring the North Country, Merry Knoll serves as a serene home base for discovering the charm of the 1000 Islands.

Owners Joanne and Jim have built a reputation for meticulous care and personal attention, often greeting guests with a warm welcome and a small gift upon arrival. The park strikes a perfect balance between a community of friendly seasonal residents and transient travelers, ensuring a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. The layout of the campground is intentionally designed to maximize the natural beauty of the area, with sites terraced on the hillside to ensure that even those further from the water can catch a glimpse of the river’s sparkling blue expanse. It is this combination of professional management and a personal "family" feel that keeps New York residents returning to Merry Knoll year after year.

Location and Accessibility are significant advantages for those navigating the scenic highways of Northern New York. Situated at 38115 NY-12E, the campground is just 2.5 miles from the historic Village of Clayton, known for its world-class museums and riverfront dining. For local travelers, Merry Knoll is approximately a 30-minute drive from Watertown and less than two hours from Syracuse, making it an accessible getaway for a quick weekend trip. The park is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, accessible parking lots, and ADA-compliant restroom facilities. The entrance is easy to navigate even for those maneuvering large rigs, and the on-site parking is well-organized to accommodate both campers and their guests.

• Full RV hookup sites including 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical service to suit various trailer and motorhome needs.
• Spacious pull-through sites that allow for easy setup of large big-rigs and fifth wheels.
• Comfortable camping cabins for those who prefer a roof over their head while still enjoying the rustic campground vibe.
• Dedicated wooded tent sites that offer a more traditional, "back-to-nature" camping experience.
• On-site laundry facilities and clean, modern bathhouses featuring hot showers.
• A well-stocked camp store providing essentials like firewood, ice, and basic camping supplies.
• A dedicated fishing pier that allows guests to cast a line directly into the St. Lawrence River without leaving the property.
• Propane fill station and a dump station for the convenience of transient RVers.

• Stunning views of the St. Lawrence River main shipping channel, perfect for ship-watching and photography.
• A beautiful in-ground swimming pool that is consistently praised for its cleanliness and refreshing temperature during the summer months.
• A large, modern playground that makes the park exceptionally good for kids.
• A sundeck specifically designed for relaxing and watching the "parade of lights" from passing ships at night.
• An indoor game room providing entertainment for families on rainy afternoons.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the vacation together.
• Close proximity to the Antique Boat Museum and Clayton Island Tours for easy day trips.
• Organized community events and picnics that foster a friendly, welcoming environment among campers.

If you are looking to book your next summer adventure in the 1000 Islands, you can reach the campground management directly to inquire about seasonal rates or weekend availability. Given the park's high ratings and popularity among locals, early reservations are highly recommended, especially for sites with the best river views.

• Address: 38115 NY-12E, Clayton, NY 13624, USA
• Phone: (315) 686-3055
• Payment Methods: Credit cards are accepted for easy transactions.

What is worth choosing at Merry Knoll Campground is the unparalleled sense of peace combined with the excitement of the river. While there are many campgrounds in the Thousand Islands, few offer the specific "hillside view" that Merry Knoll provides. Choosing a site here means you aren't just staying near the river; you are living with it. The sight of a thousand-foot freighter passing by your breakfast table is an experience you simply won't find at inland parks. Furthermore, for families, the safety and cleanliness of the grounds provide peace of mind, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy the pool and playground.

Additionally, the "personal touch" offered by the owners makes this campground worth choosing for those who find corporate-owned parks a bit cold. Jim’s habit of checking on guests to ensure their comfort reflects a level of service that is rare in modern travel. For those working or living in the New York region, Merry Knoll offers the perfect blend of professional facilities and a neighborly atmosphere, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to experience the magic of the St. Lawrence River.