Burnham Point State Park
00 review36661 Cedar Pt. State Pk. Drive, CLAYTON, New York, 13624, United States
Burnham Point State Park
$18.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $18 to $35 per night depending on site type. Discounts may apply for certain conditions.
About this campground
Tucked away along the majestic St. Lawrence River, Burnham Point State Park offers an intimate escape where gentle breezes whisper through lightly wooded campsites and world-class fishing waters lap at your doorstep. This hidden gem combines modern amenities like electric hookups and hot showers with the timeless allure of riverside camping, creating the perfect balance between comfort and nature. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or simply savoring panoramic river views from your picnic table, this small but mighty park delivers big on memorable experiences.
Burnham Point State Park accommodates tent camping, RVs, and trailers, but does not offer cabins or glamping options. An ADA-accessible site is available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living history book where every vista tells a story of the legendary Thousand Islands region. Just a short drive away, the haunting beacon of Tibbets Point Lighthouse has guided mariners since 1827, while the fairy-tale towers of Boldt Castle rise from Heart Island like a romantic dream frozen in time. This strategic location along the St. Lawrence has witnessed centuries of maritime commerce, military campaigns, and the gilded age of millionaire summer estates, making every sunset view a connection to the rich tapestry of North Country heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of seasonal beauty along the St. Lawrence, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinctive colors. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise with crystal-clear skies and warm temperatures perfect for swimming and water sports. Spring awakens the riverside with mild days ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, while autumn wraps the campground in a tapestry of gold and crimson. Even winter has its charm, offering a peaceful frozen wonderland for those seeking solitude and stark beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds in every direction at this riverside sanctuary, where towering hardwoods create a natural canopy over your campsite and the mighty St. Lawrence River stretches to the horizon. The park's gentle woodlands provide just enough shade to keep you cool while maintaining open views of the water's endless blue expanse. Below the surface, the river teems with prized game fish—smallmouth bass defend rocky shoals, northern pike patrol the weed beds, and walleye cruise the deeper channels, making this an angler's paradise where trophy catches are more than just fish tales.
Geological RegionPerched on the northeastern shores beyond Lake Ontario, where the Great Lakes give way to the St. Lawrence River, this campground occupies a fascinating geological transition zone. The landscape tells an ancient story written by glaciers and waterways—a gently rolling terrain dotted with mixed forests that slope down to meet the river's edge. This unique position creates a diverse ecosystem where northern and southern species mingle, rocky outcroppings provide perfect fishing spots, and the ever-changing river corridor serves as a natural highway for migrating birds and marine life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes ADA-accessible facilities such as site 11 and boat launch areas that are handicap-accessible.
Sites SizeSites are described as large for a state park, accommodating trailers, tents, and RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are noted to have limited privacy due to a lack of trees and close proximity to one another.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRiverfront sites are recommended for their stunning views and sunsets.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the river offer the best views and are highly popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2 PM.
Check-out
Before 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Amaximum of 14 nights is allowed. Campers must vacate the campground for 48 hours before re-registering.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is compact with approximately 50 sites, some lightly wooded and others directly adjacent to the river.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Reserve America online or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are allowed for campers, subject to availability; first-come-first-serve basis applies.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or changed outside 18 days after booking. Within certain periods, cancellation fees may apply.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a variety of activities, with boating and fishing as the most popular. The St. Lawrence River provides ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration, as well as for catching bass, pike, muskellunge, and walleye. There is also a playground for children and areas for picnicking.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities at Burnham Point State Park are described as excellent, with catches like bass, pike, muskellunge, and walleye. User reviews also mention catching yellow perch and gobies from the dock.Boating
The park has boat docks and launch sites, making it an excellent location for boating activities. Boaters can explore local towns, islands, and historic sites along the river.Water Sports
Opportunities for boating and fishing, but no specific mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed with restrictions. Firewood can be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM and end at 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions at the bluffside tent sites. Wildlife such as gobies and high water levels may affect docks.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 14.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and police station are in Clayton, approximately 10 miles and 15 minutes away. Rangers are available within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months (June, July, August) are the peak season for reservations.
Trash and recyclingThe park includes recycling stations and well-placed trash receptacles, which are maintained by the park staff.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the St. Lawrence River. Docks and boat launches are available.
Common complaintsLimited privacy between sites, windy conditions affecting tents, and the lack of swimming access.
HostFriendly staff maintain clean facilities and grounds. Staff are described as helpful by reviewers.
Campground Map
36661 Cedar Pt. State Pk. Drive, CLAYTON, New York, 13624, United States
Driving directionsThe park is located northeast of Lake Ontario on the St. Lawrence River. Take Route 12E to park, 4 miles east of Cape Vincent.
Route 12E provides direct access to the park, which is approximately 4 miles from Cape Vincent. Roads are paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
Cape Vincent (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Clayton (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Alexandria Bay (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes travel time)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Clayton, approximately 10 miles away (15 minutes). Additional options are in Cape Vincent.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Burnham Point State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe the park as small, quiet, and picturesque, with modern facilities and spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. While the park is praised for cleanliness and friendly staff, some visitors noted the lack of privacy between campsites and limited cell service.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the clean and modern bathroom facilities, the well-maintained grounds, and the scenic river views from most campsites. The park's small size contributes to its tranquility. The...
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Common Concerns
Some users reported a lack of privacy between campsites and noted that the proximity of sites made the campground feel crowded. Others commented on issues with non-campers from nearby vacation homes...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving riverfront sites for the best views, especially for sunsets. Families with children highlighted the playground as a must-visit spot.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the park's tranquility and cleanliness, but they also point out the potential for lack of privacy. Spring and fall visitors noted cooler temperatures but appreciated fewer...
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Camper Quotes
"The central wash house is brand new and really nice, with six private bathrooms." - Christopher Fuller. "Great staff takes impeccable care of the grounds, are friendly and proud of their little...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites close to the river are particularly popular for their views and access to the water.
Accessibility Features
Site 11 is ADA-accessible, and the boat launch is also designed to be handicap-friendly.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the park enforces leash rules and requires proof of rabies vaccination. Some reviews reported issues with non-campers not cleaning up after their pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025