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Hours

Monday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Shady Shores Campground Introduce

Shady Shores Campground is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil retreat along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario. Situated in Sterling, New York, this expansive RV park and resort has served as a cornerstone of the local camping community for over 50 years. It offers a unique blend of traditional camping charm and modern convenience, making it a favorite for families from across the New York region. Whether you are a local looking for a seasonal home away from home or a traveler exploring the Great Lakes, Shady Shores provides a welcoming atmosphere characterized by stunning waterfront views and a tight-knit community feel.

The resort is uniquely positioned with water frontage on both the vast Lake Ontario and the more sheltered Blind Sodus Bay. This dual-waterfront access creates a haven for those who enjoy aquatic activities, ranging from high-energy boating to peaceful morning kayaking. The grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring flat terrain with open spaces and scattered mature trees that provide just the right amount of shade for summer afternoons. As a combined RV park, cabin rental agency, and marina, the facility caters to a wide variety of guest needs, ensuring that every visitor can find their ideal way to experience the natural beauty of Upstate New York.

Location and accessibility are among the top reasons travelers choose Shady Shores Campground. Located at 14955 West Bay Road in Sterling, the park is conveniently nestled between the major metropolitan hubs of Rochester and Syracuse. This central location makes it an easy drive for weekend getaways or extended summer vacations for residents of Central and Western New York. The drive time from Syracuse is approximately 50 minutes, while Rochester is just over an hour away, allowing for a quick transition from city life to lakeside relaxation.

The entrance and main facilities are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible parking and restrooms to ensure all guests can enjoy the park comfortably. For those arriving by water, the marina facilities offer a "boat-in" experience, making it a versatile stop for those navigating the Great Lakes system. Local landmarks such as Fair Haven Beach State Park and the Sterling Nature Center are just minutes away, providing additional opportunities for hiking and birdwatching in the immediate vicinity.

Shady Shores Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. The park is equipped to handle everything from basic camping needs to long-term seasonal residencies. Key services offered at the facility include:

  • Full-service RV camping with specialized 20-amp, 30-amp, and 50-amp electrical hookups to accommodate different rig sizes.
  • Dedicated RV water and sewer hookups for a seamless residential experience.
  • On-site cabin rentals for guests who prefer a sturdy roof and a "glamping" style experience without bringing their own vehicle.
  • Marine services including boat docks and slips for those looking to explore Lake Ontario or Blind Sodus Bay.
  • On-site maintenance and management services to assist with technical needs or park information.
  • Secure payment processing accepting major credit cards, debit cards, and standard camping fees.
  • Convenience services such as firewood delivery and an on-site store stocked with ice and basic camping essentials.

The features and highlights of Shady Shores Campground go beyond the basics, focusing on creating an engaging and social environment for all ages. The park is well-known for its social calendar and community-building activities. Highlights of the resort include:

  • Breathtaking views of Lake Ontario, renowned for some of the most beautiful sunsets in the entire state of New York.
  • A fully equipped playground for children, featuring swings and slides to keep younger guests entertained.
  • Private beach access for swimming and sunbathing away from the larger public crowds.
  • An array of social activities including organized bingo nights, community potlucks, and traditional hay wagon rides.
  • Recreational facilities such as a game room, arcade, and volleyball courts for active guests.
  • High-speed Wi-Fi access available throughout the park, perfect for those who need to stay connected while enjoying the outdoors.
  • Dog-friendly policies that allow you to bring your furry family members along for the adventure.
  • Proximity to local attractions like the Colloca Estate Winery and the world-famous Sterling Renaissance Festival.

For more information on site availability, seasonal rates, or to book a cabin, you can contact the campground directly. The staff is known for their friendly "local" knowledge and willingness to help plan your visit. You can find the park at the following contact points:

Address: 14955 W Bay Rd, Sterling, NY 13156, USA

Phone: (315) 216-7330

Mobile: +1 315-216-7330

When considering where to spend your leisure time in Upstate New York, Shady Shores Campground is worth choosing for its incredible balance of community and scenery. Unlike more transient parks, Shady Shores has a strong seasonal population, which creates a safe, neighborhood-like atmosphere where neighbors know each other and look out for one another. This sense of belonging is a significant draw for families who return year after year to create lifelong memories.

Furthermore, the park’s position on both the bay and the lake offers a level of versatility that is hard to find elsewhere. You can enjoy the calm waters of the bay for paddling or fishing in the morning and then head over to the lake side for a dramatic sunset in the evening. The transition of parts of the park into a KOA Holiday affiliate also ensures that the facilities are being maintained to a high national standard while retaining the local charm that has defined the site for half a century. Whether you are looking for a weekend escape or a permanent summer destination, Shady Shores offers a quintessential New York lakeside experience that is both affordable and high in quality.

Location

Customer Reviews

4.0
105 reviews
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Erin Scott
Nov 10, 2025

We stayed at this campground for a few days last August, and it was the best decision we made! My family absolutely loved it. We couldn’t have asked for more. Everyone was so friendly, and we felt truly welcomed. The amenities were great, and the views were amazing. If you’re looking for a relaxing place to stay, this is it. We can’t wait to come back next time we’re in the area. Highly recommend!

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Jill Duckworth
Jul 06, 2025

There are only a few transient sites. Most are seasonal. Staff was great. Beautiful beacon Lake Ontario. Lots of activities for adults and kids. Great place for family time.

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Faith Penner
Sep 01, 2025

Don’t stay here poor service they gave our sites away that we paid for in full and put us in sites that had no room for a 30ft campers and not even a picnic table or fire ring

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Mike Dudley
Jun 02, 2023

We are seasonal campers for the last 3 years. Since Vince and Hilary took over, the place has come a long way! They are creating a new energy that includes fun and happiness and relaxation for all while still keeping the peace with everyone there! It’s amazing what they have accomplished in such a short time! I’m excited to see what’s still to come! Great job !

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marz martain
Jul 18, 2025

This place feels like you stepped back in time....when folks cared and everyone looked after one another. The seasonal campers hold some events to raise money for their events....attend the camper crawl....or another fun event. 4 th of July will for sure be an epic time. Also only 13 min from Renaissance Festival and 5 min from Colloca Winery....Check out Fair Point Marina or eat at Turtle Cove! Come play the summer away dawn to moon set!