Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds New York

For New Yorkers seeking a camping experience that promises a blend of natural beauty and resort-style amenities, Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds, located at 132 Crim Rd, Parish, NY 13131, has been a familiar name. Situated on a sprawling 244-acre property with a 25-acre private lake, this destination has historically aimed to provide a comprehensive outdoor getaway for families and individuals alike. The resort has long advertised a wide array of facilities and activities, from swimming pools and miniature golf to nature trails and boating opportunities on Bass Lake itself.

However, it's important for prospective visitors from New York to approach Bass Lake Resort with a comprehensive understanding of its current state and operational model. Recent feedback from past and current patrons indicates a noticeable shift in the resort's upkeep and the availability of advertised activities. While the fundamental natural setting remains appealing—surrounded by evergreens, maple, and birch trees—the perception of the resort's care has unfortunately declined, with comments mentioning "issues roofs, road ways and no updates." This suggests that the once "amazing" resort may now present a more rustic and less polished experience than some might anticipate based on older descriptions.

Furthermore, a significant point of concern raised by a New York local revolves around the resort's membership-based structure and its associated sales tactics. While Bass Lake Resort is part of a larger network (Travel Resorts of America), which typically operates on a membership model offering access to multiple properties, the direct feedback from a potential visitor highlights strong reservations about the sales approach. The review describes being enticed by a "coupon for $100 off" for a tour, only to find it's a concerted effort to "sell you a load of crap" in the form of a membership. There are explicit warnings against signing any membership papers, even as a "secondary member," due to potential financial liabilities if payments are missed. This directly contradicts initial assurances of "no catch."

This divergence between past reputation, advertised features, and recent guest experiences is a critical aspect for New Yorkers considering Bass Lake Resort. While the natural setting and the potential for a relaxing escape on Bass Lake are undeniable, visitors should be prepared for facilities that might not be as meticulously maintained or activities as abundant as once advertised. More importantly, understanding the nature of its membership sales is paramount to avoid potential misunderstandings. For many, a simple guest stay might be preferable to exploring any membership commitments given the concerns raised by a local perspective.

Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds is located at 132 Crim Rd, Parish, NY 13131, USA. This address places it in Oswego County, within the scenic and accessible Central New York region. For residents across New York State, the campground offers a relatively convenient getaway to an area known for its natural beauty, particularly its lakes, rivers, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The resort’s geographical positioning provides good accessibility. It's situated approximately 30 minutes from Syracuse and Oswego, two significant urban centers in Central New York. This proximity means that while the campground offers a sense of being "away from it all" with its 244 acres of woodland and meadows, essential services, larger retail options, and additional dining and entertainment are never too far away. Major roadways connect Parish to the wider New York State highway network, making it a feasible driving destination from various points, including Rochester and Utica (about an hour away).

Being "right on Bass Lake" is a key aspect of its location and accessibility. This 25-acre private lake provides direct access for water-based activities, which is a major draw for many campers. The surrounding region also boasts numerous attractions that can complement a stay at Bass Lake Resort. Nearby natural sites include Salmon River Falls, a stunning 110-foot waterfall with a scenic gorge, and the Great Bear Recreation Area. For those looking for non-nature-based activities, destinations like Destiny USA (New York's largest shopping center) in Syracuse, Fort Ontario in Oswego, and amusement parks like Sylvan Beach Amusement Park and Thunder Island Water Park are within a reasonable driving distance.

However, it's important to consider recent feedback regarding internal accessibility within the campground itself. While the access roads leading to the resort are generally good, a review mentions "road ways" as an issue, suggesting that some internal paths or site access may be in need of repair or maintenance. This could impact ease of movement within the campground, particularly for larger RVs or those with mobility concerns. Despite this, the overall location remains advantageous for New Yorkers seeking a diverse outdoor experience with the convenience of nearby urban amenities and attractions.

• RV Sites: Accommodates RVs with full hookups (electric, water, sewer) and varying amperage (30/50 amp). Both back-in and pull-thru sites are typically available. Max RV length often cited as 40 feet.
• Tent Sites: Individual tent sites are offered, including designated tenting areas.
• Cabin Rentals: Various cabin and rental units are available, providing alternative accommodation options. Guests often need to bring their own bedding and cookware for rentals.
• Private Lake Access: Direct access to a 25-acre private lake for fishing (catch-and-release is common), boating (electric motors only), rowboats, and canoes.
• Swimming Pools: The resort generally advertises two outdoor swimming pools, and sometimes a spiral waterslide or splash pad.
• Clubhouses: Two clubhouses are typically available, including one for families and an adult-only lounge.
• On-site Dining: An on-site restaurant and bar are advertised, featuring meals and a Sunday morning breakfast buffet. (Note: Recent reviews suggest dining options and availability may have changed, or the "small store" is more prevalent than a full restaurant.)
• Country Store / Market: A convenience store for camping supplies, firewood, ice, and essentials.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds for children.
• Miniature Golf: An on-site mini-golf course.
• Nature Trails: Designated trails for hiking and exploring the 244-acre property.
• Game Room / Arcade: Provides indoor entertainment options.
• Sports Facilities: Includes basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and potentially a ball field.
• Laundry Facilities: Available for guest use.
• Wi-Fi: Advertised as available throughout most of the campground.
• Propane Sales: On-site sales for refilling propane tanks.
• Dump Station: For RV waste disposal. Mobile sewer service may be available for non-sewer sites (additional fee).
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome with restrictions (e.g., leash rules, vaccination papers, limit of 2 pets per site).
• Gated and Secure Year-Round Resort: Implies enhanced security and potentially year-round operation (though peak camping season is May to October).

• Expansive Property: Spanning 244 acres with a 25-acre private spring-fed lake, offering ample space for outdoor activities and a sense of natural immersion.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Offers a range of RV sites, tent sites, and various cabins to suit different camping preferences and comfort levels.
• On-Site Water Access: Direct access to Bass Lake for fishing, boating (electric motors only), canoeing, and kayaking, enhancing recreational opportunities.
• Advertised Extensive Amenities: Historically featured two clubhouses, two pools, playgrounds, mini-golf, dining options, nature trails, and more (though recent reviews suggest some of these may be in disrepair or less available).
• Membership-Based Community: Operates as a member-based camp, aiming to foster a welcoming community where "neighbors quickly become friends."
• Proximity to Regional Attractions: Conveniently located near Syracuse and Oswego, providing access to additional dining, shopping (Destiny USA), historical sites (Fort Ontario), and natural wonders (Salmon River Falls, Great Bear Recreation Area).
• Family-Oriented: Historically advertised as having "lots of activities for kids and family friendly," designed for family fun. (Note: Recent reviews indicate a significant reduction in organized activities).
• Potential for Relaxation: Despite concerns, the natural setting around Bass Lake still offers opportunities for a quiet escape and relaxation.

Based on the provided information, Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds, as a member-based resort under Travel Resorts of America, primarily focuses its "promotions" around encouraging membership sales rather than offering traditional nightly discounts for casual guests. One review explicitly mentions a "coupon for $100 off" for taking a tour, which is then revealed to be a sales pitch for a membership. This is a key "special offer" to be aware of if considering a visit.

For those who are not members, or if considering a trial visit, booking directly as a guest might involve standard seasonal rates. However, the available information heavily suggests that the core business model relies on attracting individuals into membership contracts. These memberships typically offer:

• Access to Multiple Resorts: Memberships often grant access to a network of Travel Resorts of America properties across various states.
• Unlimited Stays/Flexible Booking: Different membership tiers might offer varying levels of access, such as unlimited use of campsites (with nightly site fees often still applicable) or flexible booking windows.
• Member-Exclusive Amenities: Access to certain amenities or clubhouses may be exclusive to members.

It is crucial for any potential visitor from New York to be extremely cautious and thoroughly understand any offer that involves a "tour" or discussion of "membership." As the negative review explicitly warns, what might seem like a simple discount can lead to a high-pressure sales environment. The reviewer strongly advises against signing any membership papers, especially as a "secondary member," due to potential financial liabilities and difficulty in exiting contracts, describing it as a "scam" and "not worth it."

Therefore, while the resort might advertise "free camping trip" opportunities or introductory offers to draw in potential members, these should be approached with significant skepticism and a full understanding that they are likely part of a membership sales presentation. Direct contact with the resort is advised to inquire about any non-membership-based guest rates, but be prepared for discussions centered around their membership program.

Address: 132 Crim Rd, Parish, NY 13131, USA

Phone: (855) 432-8457

Mobile Phone: +1 855-432-8457

For inquiries about direct bookings as a guest, or to gather more information on their membership program (proceed with caution as per user reviews), it is recommended to contact Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds directly via the provided phone numbers. It's advisable to be prepared with specific questions about nightly rates, available amenities, and to clarify the nature of any promotional offers, particularly those involving tours or membership presentations.

For residents across New York State considering Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds in Parish, a nuanced understanding is crucial for determining its suitability. Historically, this expansive 244-acre property, with its private 25-acre Bass Lake, offered a compelling vision of a comprehensive outdoor escape. Its location in Central New York, approximately 30 minutes from Syracuse and Oswego, makes it geographically accessible for many New Yorkers seeking a relatively short drive to a natural setting. The proximity to other regional attractions like Salmon River Falls and various state parks, as well as larger retail centers, provides options for those who wish to combine their camping trip with broader exploration.

The core appeal for locals, based on its advertised features, would stem from the variety of accommodations—from RV sites with full hookups to tent sites and cabins—catering to different camping preferences. The presence of amenities like swimming pools, a mini-golf course, and direct lake access for fishing and boating suggests a resort designed for family-friendly recreation and relaxation. For New Yorkers eager to engage in water activities or simply unwind by a private lake, the fundamental natural setting remains an attractive feature.

However, it is paramount for New York locals to consider recent customer experiences, which paint a more complex picture. Reports of diminished maintenance, "issues roofs, road ways and no updates," and a significant reduction in "activities for kids and family friendly" programming mean that the resort may no longer live up to its past "amazing" reputation. This suggests that visitors should manage their expectations regarding the upkeep and vibrancy of the amenities.

Furthermore, the strong warnings from a local about the resort's "scam" like membership sales tactics are a critical factor. The concern about being pressured into a "load of crap" membership, with potential financial repercussions, is a serious red flag. For many New Yorkers simply looking for a straightforward camping trip, the high-pressure sales environment described could significantly detract from the overall experience. While the resort may still offer a place to stay in a natural setting, potential visitors, especially those primarily seeking a guest stay rather than a long-term membership, should proceed with extreme caution and be very clear about their intentions and refusal to engage in sales presentations if they are not interested in a membership.

In conclusion, while Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds offers a convenient location and potentially appealing natural features for New Yorkers, recent reviews strongly suggest that its suitability is now highly dependent on individual expectations regarding facility quality, activity availability, and a willingness to navigate potentially aggressive membership sales. For those prioritizing a hassle-free, non-membership camping experience with guaranteed amenities, it may be prudent to thoroughly investigate current conditions and pricing, or consider alternatives until more consistent positive reviews emerge.

Bass Lake Resort & RV Campgrounds New York

132 Crim Rd, Parish, NY 13131, USA