Selkirk Shores State Park
00 review7101 ST RT. 3, PULASKI, New York, 13142, United States
Selkirk Shores State Park
$15.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on the type of site. Tent/non-hookup sites are generally lower-cost, while group sites and cabins have higher fees. Additional costs such as firewood purchases apply.
About this campground
Perched majestically on the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, Selkirk Shores State Park beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of woodland tranquility and waterfront wonder. This diverse recreational paradise invites you to explore winding hiking trails through verdant forests, pedal along scenic bike paths, cast a line into the vast waters of Lake Ontario, or simply settle into your campsite as nature's symphony plays around you. The campground's thoughtfully designed loops cater to every camping style—from those seeking the intimate embrace of wooded privacy to others yearning for sweeping lakefront vistas that paint the horizon with endless blue.
Selkirk Shores State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, and cabins. Group sites and glamping options are not explicitly mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's dramatic seasonal transformation as nature rewrites the landscape throughout the year. Summer unfolds with warm, golden days perfect for lakeside camping adventures and evening campfires under star-studded skies. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in brilliant colors before winter's enchanting arrival transforms the park into a snow-dusted wonderland. When pristine white blankets the trails, cross-country skiers glide through hushed forests while snowmobilers carve paths through the crystalline landscape, proving that Selkirk Shores' magic never hibernates.
ElevationFrom atop the park's dramatic bluff, campers are treated to commanding views that stretch across Lake Ontario's seemingly infinite waters. This elevated vantage point transforms every sunrise into a theatrical performance and every sunset into a masterpiece, as the landscape unfolds below in a tapestry of forest, meadow, and shoreline that changes with each passing hour.
Natural Features and SceneryStanding sentinel on Lake Ontario's bluff, Selkirk Shores weaves together a stunning natural tapestry of lush forests that whisper ancient secrets and expansive meadows that dance in the breeze. This ecological crossroads serves as a vital stopover on nature's great highway, where countless bird species pause during their epic migrations. Watch in wonder as waves of warblers, majestic raptors, and waterfowl transform the park into a living field guide, making every visit a front-row seat to one of nature's most spectacular shows.
Geological RegionSculpted by ancient glaciers that once dominated this landscape, Selkirk Shores showcases the raw artistry of geological time along Lake Ontario's eastern shore. The park's dramatic bluffs stand as monuments to the ice age's creative force, while the surrounding terrain tells the story of millennia through its carved valleys and rolling hills. This glacially-crafted sanctuary has evolved into an ecological treasure trove, where the convergence of lake, forest, and meadow creates a vital corridor for migrating birds and a haven for diverse wildlife communities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not explicitly mentioned in the sources provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, though some loops have tighter or less private sites. For example, the Chipmunk loop features smaller sites with minimal shade, while Loop A (Acorn) has larger, more secluded sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by loop. Acorn Loop features more secluded sites, while the Chipmunk Loop has smaller, closely spaced sites. The Dragonfly Loop is also noted for its tight spacing. Some lake-adjacent sites offer scenic views but may lack privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in Acorn Loop for spacious and shaded options; avoid sites in Chipmunk Loop if shade and privacy are priorities.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include #97 in the Dragonfly Loop for privacy and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights allowed
- a 48-hour break is required before rebooking.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum limit of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Information about group sites is not provided in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops including Acorn, Chipmunk, and Dragonfly Loops with various site characteristics.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations except during major renovations from Labor Day 2024 through the 2025 season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible during non-peak times, but specific patterns are not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations cannot occur until 18 days after the reservation is made if departure dates exceed the 9-month reservation window.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, bird watching, fishing, boating, and beach activities. Visitors can also enjoy winter sports such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The park's location along Lake Ontario provides opportunities for kayaking and spectacular sunsets.
Hiking
The park features multiple trails, including a well-marked lake trail and the Frog Pond hike, a favorite among families for wildlife spotting. Trails are described as easy and accessible, with opportunities to observe local bird species, frogs, and other wildlife.Fishing
Lake Ontario and nearby waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities. The park also has a fish cleaning station for camper use. Seasonal fishing for salmon and trout is particularly popular.Swimming
Swimming is available at the park's beach, but it is subject to lifeguard availability and water quality. Some visitors noted the rocky entry to the water and occasional algae blooms. Sand is brought in to improve the beach, but it can be affected by storms.Biking
The park's trails are suitable for biking, and its flat terrain makes it accessible for all skill levels. Children under 14 must wear helmets while biking, as per park rules.Boating
Small boats can be launched from Pine Grove, and larger boats from Mexico Point on the Little Salmon River. Nearby creeks also provide kayaking opportunities, with smooth waters and scenic views.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a major attraction as the park lies on a migration route. Visitors have also reported seeing owls, frogs, skunks, and raccoons.Beach activities
The beach area, while rocky, is a popular spot for sunsets and rock collecting. Sand is brought in to improve the area, but it is not a traditional sandy beach. Fireworks can occasionally be seen along the shore during holidays.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts recreational programs, including craft activities for children at the rec center. Details on specific topics and schedules are limited.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on the park's trails.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular, particularly in nearby South Sandy Creek and Deer Creek, which provide calm waters for paddling.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed at fire pits provided at each campsite. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky beach terrain, algae in swim areas, and mosquitoes in damp conditions.
Active alertsMajor renovations planned from Labor Day 2024 through the 2025 season.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.5 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
Closest emergency services include the Pulaski Police Department and local hospitals within 10 miles. Ranger station with on-site staff also provides assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak camping season generally aligns with summer months, particularly June to August.
Trash and recyclingThe park features conveniently located dumpsters and recycling collection areas. Users appreciate the accessibility and upkeep of these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Lake Ontario. Beach access varies; sandy areas are supplemented with hauled sand, but the beach is predominantly rocky.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include rocky beach terrain, tight campsite spacing, and dated restroom facilities.
HostStaff are described as super friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
7101 ST RT. 3, PULASKI, New York, 13142, United States
Driving directionsFrom Syracuse: Take I-81 North to Exit 36 (Pulaski); go north, then west, on Rte 13 through Pulaski to Rte 3; travel 1.5 miles south on Rte 3 to the park entrance. From Rochester: Take Rte 104 East to Rte 3 North to the park entrance. From the north: Take I-81 to Exit 36 (Pulaski) and follow the signs. From Buffalo: Take Thruway (I-90) East to Exit 41, go north to Rte 104 East; take Rte 3 north to the park entrance. From New York and Albany: Take Thruway (I-90) West to Exit 34A; take Rt.481 North to I-81 North to Exit 36 (Pulaski); take Rte 13 West to Rte 3; travel 1.5 miles south on Rte 3 to the park entrance.
The park is accessible via major highways including I-81 and Route 3. Roads leading to the park are paved and well-maintained, with signage guiding visitors from nearby towns.Nearby places
Pulaski (1.5 miles, about 5 minutes), Rochester (approximately 90 miles, about 1.5 hours), Syracuse (approximately 40 miles, about 50 minutes), Buffalo (approximately 145 miles, about 2.5 hours), Albany (approximately 160 miles, about 3 hours).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, laundromats, and restaurants can be found in Pulaski, a short 1.5-mile drive from the park. Lakeside Restaurant and nearby camp stores provide basic necessities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Selkirk Shores State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews offer a mixed but generally positive outlook on Selkirk Shores State Park. The park's scenic location, variety of activities, and well-maintained facilities are frequently praised. Common complaints include rocky beaches, tight campsites in some loops, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Scenic sunsets, spacious campsites in certain loops, clean restrooms and showers, family-friendly amenities, and diverse activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
Common Concerns
Rocky beaches with limited sand, algae in swimming areas, tight campsite spacing in some loops, and occasional noise from other campers.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose campsites in Loop A (Acorn) for more space and privacy. Bring water shoes for the rocky beach. Pack a fan for cabin stays in the summer. Avoid Chipmunk Loop if you prefer shaded sites.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time, with reviews noting family-friendly activities and beautiful sunsets. Winter reviews highlight the park's suitability for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring...
Show more
Camper Quotes
"Sunsets on the lake never disappoint." - Hog Roamer
"Cabins are spacious although beds are typical camp beds." - Dianne Nugent-Ward
"The Frog Pond hike is an absolute favorite for my kids." -...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites in Loop A (Acorn), especially #97, are highly rated for privacy and size. Loop C (Chipmunk) receives criticism for its small, exposed sites.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with a limit of two per site. Pets must be leashed, and proof of rabies inoculation is required. Several reviews note the park's dog-friendly atmosphere.
Last updated August 10, 2025