Westcott Beach Plateau Camping

For residents of New York seeking the perfect balance of lakeside recreation and tranquil upland camping, Westcott Beach Plateau Camping offers an unparalleled experience in the Thousand Islands region. Situated on a scenic bluff overlooking the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, the Plateau area is a distinct and highly sought-after section of the larger Westcott Beach State Park. Known for its rolling wooded hills and open grassy meadows, this site provides a refreshing alternative to the busier shoreline loops, making it a favorite for local families and seasoned travelers alike who appreciate a bit more space and a lot more scenery.

The Plateau loop is specifically recognized by Northern New York campers as the "premier" section of the park due to its elevated position. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Henderson Bay and the vast, crystal-clear waters of Lake Ontario. This area is particularly famous for its spectacular sunsets, which paint the sky in vibrant shades of orange and purple—a sight that has become a staple for local photographers and nature lovers. Whether you are arriving with a large RV or a traditional tent setup, the Plateau area offers a sense of openness that is hard to find in more densely wooded campgrounds.

Location and accessibility are primary reasons why many New Yorkers choose this destination year after year. Westcott Beach Plateau Camping is located at 15402 Plateau Road in Smithville, NY, just a short distance from the charming and historic village of Sackets Harbor. The entrance to the Plateau loop is conveniently situated across the main road (Route 3) from the beach and day-use areas, providing a quiet buffer from the high-traffic summer crowds while remaining just minutes away from the shoreline. For those traveling from Syracuse or Watertown, the park is easily accessible via major state routes, and the local roads are well-maintained to accommodate large motorhomes and trailers.

Within the campground, the infrastructure is designed to be inclusive and easy to navigate. The Plateau area features wide, paved roads and level gravel pads, ensuring that even the most novice camper can set up with ease. Accessibility is a priority here; many of the restrooms, showers, and picnic facilities are designed to be handicap-accessible, reflecting the park's status as a flagship facility for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. On-site parking is ample, allowing for a primary vehicle and a guest vehicle at most sites, which is essential for families coordinating group gatherings.

The services offered at Westcott Beach Plateau Camping are comprehensive and designed to support a comfortable outdoor lifestyle. While the environment is naturally beautiful, the park provides modern amenities that make longer stays feasible and enjoyable for families and RVers.

• Electrical hookups are available at most Plateau sites, featuring both 30-amp and 50-amp options to suit modern RV requirements.
• Clean and well-maintained central bathhouses offering hot showers and flushing toilets.
• A convenient sanitary dumping station and water fill-up stations located near the loop entrance for RV maintenance.
• On-site parking at each campsite, with additional overflow parking available near the park office.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow for up to two household pets per site, provided they are leashed and have current proof of rabies inoculation.
• Access to a mandatory recycling program and trash disposal areas to keep the natural landscape pristine.
• Seasonal administrative services including a ranger station for check-ins, permits, and emergency assistance.

The features and highlights of the Plateau camping area extend far beyond just the tent pad or RV site. Because this campground is part of the Westcott Beach State Park system, guests have full access to a wide range of recreational activities that define the Lake Ontario experience. From world-class fishing to winter sports, there is something to do in every season.

• Spectacular Lake Ontario Overlooks: The Plateau rim features several viewing areas that offer some of the best vistas in Jefferson County.
• Proximity to Westcott Beach: A short drive or walk across the road leads to a long, sandy beach with designated swimming areas and lifeguards.
• Small Marina and Boat Launch: Ideal for anglers seeking Lake Ontario’s legendary black bass, northern pike, and walleye.
• Children's Playground: A modern and safe playground area located directly within the Plateau loop, making it exceptionally kid-friendly.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: The 1.3-mile Plateau Loop Trail offers a scenic trek through the woods and along the bluff’s edge.
• Winter Recreation: The trails serve double-duty for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing once the snow falls.
• Nearby Historical Sites: Located just four miles from the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site and local museums.

For those interested in booking a stay, it is important to note that the Plateau Loop often stays open slightly later into the fall than the lower shoreline sites, making it a prime choice for foliage viewing. To secure a reservation or check current park conditions, visitors can reach out through the official state park contact channels.

Address: 15402 Plateau Rd, Smithville, NY 13605, USA

Phone: (315) 646-2239

What is worth choosing at Westcott Beach Plateau Camping? For the local New York traveler, the answer lies in the "spaciousness and scenery." If you prefer a site where you don't feel crowded by your neighbors and you want to wake up to a breeze coming off the lake, the Plateau is worth choosing every time. The sites here are notably larger than many other state park loops, providing plenty of room for outdoor kitchens, lawn games, and campfires. It is also the superior choice for pet owners, as the loop is fully pet-friendly and offers more grassy areas for walking dogs away from the busy beach zones.

Furthermore, the Plateau area is worth choosing for its versatility. It serves as a perfect home base for a family looking to spend all day on the sand, but it also caters to the quiet seeker who wants to sit on the bluff with a pair of binoculars and watch for bald eagles or migratory waterfowl. By choosing to camp on the "hill," you get the best of both worlds: easy access to the excitement of Henderson Bay and a quiet, breezy retreat to return to at night. Whether you are a local from Watertown looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, Westcott Beach Plateau Camping provides a high-quality, authentic New York outdoor experience.

Would you like me to help you check the specific 2026 opening and closing dates for the Plateau Loop or provide a list of local supply stores in nearby Smithville?