Hamlin Beach State Park
00 review1 Camp Road, HAMLIN, New York, 14464, United States
Hamlin Beach State Park
$25.00 - $61.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent site fees start at $25 per night. Additional costs include 6 pieces of wood for $5. Cancellation fees apply and vary depending on timing.
About this campground
Where the gentle waves of Lake Ontario meet pristine sandy shores, Hamlin Beach State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront relaxation and woodland adventure. This sprawling sanctuary offers 264 thoughtfully positioned tent and trailer campsites nestled among mature trees, providing a peaceful retreat just steps from the beach. Miles of winding trails invite exploration by foot or bicycle, leading through diverse habitats from sandy dunes to shaded forest groves. Summer days here are made for swimming in the refreshing lake waters and casting lines for the day's catch, though visitors should come prepared for nature's full experience – including the seasonal mosquito population that reminds us we're sharing this wild space. While some campers seek out the lively atmosphere of busy weekends, others find their perfect moments in the quieter corners where only the sound of lapping waves breaks the silence.
Hamlin Beach State Park provides a variety of camping options, including tent and trailer sites. There are no water/sewer hookups available at any site.
Historical SignificanceBeyond its natural allure, Hamlin Beach holds fascinating chapters of American history within its boundaries. Just down Moscow Road, remnants of a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp tell the story of young men who helped shape America's parks during the Great Depression. Even more intriguing is the site of a former German POW camp, a lesser-known piece of World War II history where captured soldiers spent their days far from European battlefields. These historical layers add depth to any visit, inviting campers to reflect on the many lives that have passed through this lakeside landscape over the decades.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Hamlin Beach in dramatically different colors, creating a year-round destination for nature lovers. Summer brings warm, beach-perfect days ideal for swimming and sunbathing, though evening mosquitoes remind visitors to pack repellent along with their sunscreen. As autumn arrives, the wooded trails burst into brilliant fall colors, offering spectacular hiking conditions. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland where cross-country skiers and snowmobilers carve paths through pristine white trails. Spring's arrival is announced by migrating birds and wildflowers pushing through the forest floor. Throughout the year, Lake Ontario's influence brings occasional dramatic storms that demonstrate nature's power, followed by crystal-clear days that showcase the park's stunning beauty.
ElevationThe park's gentle topography creates an accessible outdoor experience, with minimal elevation changes making it ideal for visitors of all ages and abilities to explore its diverse environments from beachfront to forest.
Natural Features and SceneryHamlin Beach State Park showcases nature's artistry where land meets one of the Great Lakes. The star attraction remains the expansive sandy beaches stretching along Lake Ontario's south shore, where sunrise paints the water in shades of gold and pink. Behind the beaches, a fascinating transition occurs as sandy dunes give way to dense woodlands, creating diverse camping environments from open, breezy sites to secluded forest hideaways. The park's crown jewel for nature enthusiasts is its network of marsh trails, where raised boardwalks wind through vibrant wetlands teeming with wildlife. Here, great blue herons stalk through shallow waters while red-winged blackbirds call from the cattails, and the mysterious beauty of the swamp reveals itself to patient observers.
Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers and shaped by centuries of Lake Ontario's relentless waves, Hamlin Beach State Park sits at the intersection of powerful geological forces. The park's position on the south shore of one of North America's Great Lakes has created a unique landscape where sandy beaches transition to marshlands and eventually to upland forests. This diverse geology supports an equally varied ecosystem, from beach grasses clinging to shifting dunes to centuries-old trees anchored in rich forest soil. The interplay between lake, marsh, and woodland creates distinct microclimates and habitats that make every trail a journey through different worlds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHamlin Beach State Park has made significant efforts to improve accessibility. Mobility mats are installed at the beach to facilitate access for individuals using wheelchairs or scooters. Additionally, the park provides a beach wheelchair at the lifeguard station.
Sites SizeMost campsites are spacious and can accommodate up to 6 people, 2 cars, and either 2 tents or 1 camper and 1 tent.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies by loop. Reviewers noted that sites in Loop D are secluded, while other areas are more open following tree removal due to the Emerald Ash Borer. Efforts are underway to restore tree cover.
Total Campsites264 campsites
Recommended CampsitesStay on inner loops for easier RV access. Outer loops may have steep inclines making navigation challenging.
Best CampsitesLoops D & E offer secluded locations. Site 194 in loop D is praised for its quietness and star visibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 continuous nights, after which campers must vacate for 48 hours.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 persons per site, including infants and children.
Groups
.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops A-F, with loops D, E, and F designated pet-free.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations. Seasonal beach swimming available Mid-June to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Reserve America or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in reservations accepted; same-day reservations can be made via Reserve America before 3 PM.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be changed or canceled until 18 days after reservation creation. Cancellation fees apply.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Hamlin Beach State Park offers diverse recreational opportunities, including biking, hiking, fishing, beach activities, and winter sports. Visitors can enjoy paved paths, a self-guided nature trail, and the scenic Devil's Nose trail. The park is also a popular spot for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
The park features 6 miles of hiking trails, including the Devil's Nose trail, which is a flat and easy trail offering scenic cliff views. A mile-long self-guided trail in the Yanty Creek Marsh area is also available.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with salmon and trout being the popular catches. Users did not provide specific details about fishing quality.Swimming
The swimming beach is open from mid-June to Labor Day, daily from 11 am to 6:45 pm, and is staffed with lifeguards. Swimming is only allowed at designated areas near Shelters 3 and 4 when lifeguards are present. Water quality testing may occasionally result in swimming restrictions.Biking
Biking is a popular activity with paved roads and paths available throughout the park. Reviewers recommended bringing bikes to explore the large park easily.Boating
Car-top boat launches are available within the park for small, non-motorized boats. No additional information about boating facilities was provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include birdwatching, with over 50 bird species observed. The park's open spaces and marshy areas offer good spots for observing native fauna.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are popular, supported by the park's sandy beaches along Lake Ontario. Visitors have noted the beach's cleanliness but mentioned occasional issues with seaweed and rocky water areas.Winter Activities
The park supports winter activities like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
No specific details about additional water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding were provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in fire pits provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM onwards, though enforcement may vary.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer months. Poison ivy may be found near campsite boundaries. Seasonal weather may lead to flooding.
Active alertsEmerald Ash Borer damage has led to tree removal, creating a more open canopy. Restoration projects are underway.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearby emergency services include a first aid station within 10 miles and Lake Ontario Medical Center in Rochester.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-June to Labor Day
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available at every loop, along with three dumping station lanes for RVs. The park follows a 'carry in, carry out' policy for general trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the south shore of Lake Ontario with sandy beaches and marsh trails.
Common complaintsNoise complaints about lack of enforcement of quiet hours. Mosquito prevalence. Cell service is spotty.
HostPark rangers are available, with helpful maintenance staff noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
1 Camp Road, HAMLIN, New York, 14464, United States
Driving directionsThe park is on the south shore of Lake Ontario. Take the Lake Ontario State Parkway to the Hamlin Beach State Park exit.
Access via paved roads. Seasonal beach swimming is available from Mid-June to Labor Day. No walk-ins are allowed; reservations are required.Nearby places
Hamlin (5 miles), Rochester (25 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores, shopping, and restaurants are available within 10 miles in nearby Hamlin or Rochester areas.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Hamlin Beach State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the park's beautiful beaches, well-maintained facilities, and diverse recreational opportunities. However, some reviewers noted issues with mosquitoes, outdated restrooms, and noisy campers during quiet hours.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the campground's spacious sites, clean beaches, and availability of biking and hiking trails. The park's accessibility features and lifeguarded swimming areas were also positively...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include noisy campers, mosquitoes, outdated or poorly cleaned restrooms, and lack of full hookups. Some reviewers also mentioned issues with customer service and site flooding during rain.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and consider staying in quieter loops like Loop D for more seclusion. Bring bikes for easy park navigation and check for swimming restrictions before planning beach...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to beach access and outdoor activities. However, mosquitoes and crowded conditions are common complaints during this time. Winter offers unique opportunities for...
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Camper Quotes
"Very nice park, beautiful beach and campground." - Patricia Clark. "Loved the beach is beautiful and the park and camping areas well maintain beautiful view of the lake." - Barbara Roberto. "We had...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Loops A and B feature newly renovated facilities. Loop D is known for secluded sites, while some outer areas of other loops have steep inclines not suited for RVs.
Accessibility Features
The mobility mats and beach wheelchair were highly appreciated by visitors with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in Loops A, B, and C with a maximum of two pets per site. Proof of rabies inoculation is required. Pets are not allowed in Loops D, E, and F or on the beach.
Last updated August 10, 2025