Oneida Shores Park

Oneida Shores Park

Discovering : A Hidden Gem on Oneida Lake Nestled along the shores of Oneida Lake in Brewerton, New York, Oneida Shores Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. As part of the Onondaga County Parks system, this county park in the town of Cicero spans a scenic area ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.  Just 20 minutes from downtown Syracuse, it’s easily accessible for day trips or longer stays. 

The park’s standout feature is its sandy, shallow beach, which provides safe swimming in the clear waters of New York’s largest inland lake. Visitors can enjoy breezy picnic grounds with tables and charcoal grills, many shaded by trees for comfortable outdoor dining.  A colorful children’s playground keeps the little ones entertained, while volleyball courts invite friendly games. For boating enthusiasts, there’s a convenient boat launch with daily access from 6:00 AM to dusk. 

Camping is a highlight here, with over 50 shaded lake-view sites available for tents and self-contained RVs. Options include basic sites at $25 per night or those with electric and water hookups for $35 per night.  Campers also get free access to the beach during operating hours, along with hot showers for added convenience.  The park is open year-round, but hours vary seasonally: from Mother’s Day weekend to Columbus Day, it’s accessible from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM, while mid-October to mid-May operates from dusk to dawn.  Beach hours may differ, so it’s wise to check ahead.

Admission is affordable, with a peak-season vehicle fee of $7, or $35 for buses. Veterans and active military personnel enjoy free entry for one vehicle.  Boat launch fees are $10 daily for boats or personal watercraft, with discounted rates for seniors ($4 Monday through Thursday).  Season passes for the beach and boat launch are available for frequent visitors. 

Whether you’re picnicking, swimming, camping, or simply soaking in the views, Oneida Shores Park promises a refreshing outdoor experience. Remember, the park follows a carry-in, carry-out policy to preserve its pristine environment.  Plan your visit today and discover why this spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Oneida Shores Park Camping Details
Oneida Shores Park, located on the shores of Oneida Lake in Brewerton, New York, offers a family-friendly campground with over 50 shaded, lake-view sites suitable for tents and self-contained RVs.   The campground is ideally suited for late spring, summer, and early fall camping, with specific operating days for 2025 including weekends only from April 25 to May 18, and daily from May 23 to October 12. 

Site Types and Pricing
•  Basic Sites: $25 per night. These are suitable for tents or self-contained RVs without hookups.
•  Electric and Water Sites: $35 per night. These include 30 AMP electric and water hookups.   There are no full sewer hookups, but a dump station is available near the main parking lot entrance. Reservations can be made online or by phone, and camping permits are limited to no more than 14 cumulative nights.  Maximum occupancy is 6 persons and 2 tents per site. 

Amenities and Facilities
Campers enjoy free access to the park’s beach during operating hours, along with hot showers in the bathhouse.  Restrooms are located adjacent to site #1, with additional showers and restrooms at the beach bathhouse (locked; access code provided on permit). 
Other facilities include:
•  Picnic tables and fire rings at each site.
•  Dishwashing sinks outside the restroom entrance.
•  Trash dumpster near the boat launch.
•  Boat launch access for water activities.

A campground office and host site are available for assistance.  The park follows a carry-in, carry-out policy to maintain cleanliness.

Rules and Policies (Based on 2024 Guidelines; Check for 2025 Updates)
•  Check-in/Check-out: Check-in at 2 PM; check-out by 11 AM. Notify staff for early departures before 6 AM. 
•  Quiet Hours: 10 PM to 6 AM. No excessive noise at any time; campfires must be out by midnight. 
•  Parking: 1 vehicle for tent sites, up to 2 for RV sites. No parking on grass; extra vehicles in main lot. 
•  Visitors: Day visitors from 6 AM to 10 PM; pay $7 vehicle fee during beach season. Overnight guests register at office. 
•  Alcohol: Allowed (one 6-pack per adult per day); no glass. May be confiscated if unsafe. 
•  Pets: Welcome with rabies proof; leashed (max 6 ft), not on beach. Clean up required. 
•  Fires and Generators: Fires in rings only; wood from within 50 miles. Generators 11 AM–1 PM and 4–6 PM. 
•  Other: 5 MPH speed limit; no glass in park; clotheslines OK but no nails. 

For the latest information, including potential 2025 changes, visit the official Onondaga County Parks website or contact the park directly.  Recent reviews highlight the clean, quiet environment and beautiful views.