Cross Lake Campground & RV Park

For New York locals seeking a lively and amenity-rich camping experience, Cross Lake Campground & RV Park in Cato, NY, presents itself as a compelling destination. Situated on the scenic shores of Cross Lake, this extensive campground is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and abundant recreational opportunities. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, whether they're setting up a tent for a weekend getaway or enjoying the comforts of an RV for a seasonal stay.

Cross Lake Campground & RV Park is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a community-oriented hub where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities right at their fingertips. The campground boasts direct access to the lake, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing enthusiasts. With its focus on family-friendly fun, you'll find amenities and activities designed to keep everyone entertained, from playgrounds for the kids to a recreation hall for gatherings.

What truly sets Cross Lake Campground & RV Park apart, as highlighted by numerous positive reviews, is the strong sense of community and the dedication of its owners and staff. Many campers return year after year, with some even choosing to become seasonal residents, a testament to the enjoyable and welcoming environment. While the campground is a "huge RV park" as noted by a visitor, the vibrant atmosphere and array of offerings make it a popular choice for New Yorkers looking for an active and engaging outdoor experience by the water. This overview will provide a detailed look into what makes Cross Lake Campground & RV Park a suitable and enjoyable choice for your next New York camping adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Cross Lake Campground & RV Park is conveniently located at 11150 Duger Road, Cato, NY 13033, USA. This address places it directly on the eastern shore of Cross Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake in Central New York. The town of Cato is situated in Cayuga County, part of the larger Finger Lakes region, which is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vineyards, and recreational opportunities.

The campground's location offers excellent accessibility from various parts of New York State. Major roadways lead directly or indirectly to the Cato area, making it an easy drive for residents from Syracuse, Rochester, and other central and western New York cities. While the campground itself is nestled in a more rural setting, providing a sense of escape, it remains within a reasonable distance of essential services and attractions.

Being directly on Cross Lake is a significant advantage for water enthusiasts. Campers have immediate access for boating, fishing, and swimming. Although one recent review mentioned a flooded marina, suggesting occasional water level fluctuations, the general access to the lake remains a core feature. Beyond the lake, the surrounding Finger Lakes region offers a plethora of activities, including visiting local wineries, exploring charming towns, and hiking numerous state parks and natural areas. The balance between serene lakeside camping and convenient access to regional attractions makes Cross Lake Campground & RV Park a very accessible and desirable spot for New York locals seeking a diverse outdoor experience.

Services Offered

• RV Sites with Full Hookups: Cross Lake Campground & RV Park is described as a "huge RV park," offering numerous sites for recreational vehicles. These sites typically include full hookups, providing 30 and 50 amp electric service, water, and sewer connections for maximum convenience. Pull-through sites are also likely available to accommodate larger rigs.
• Tent Sites: In addition to RV accommodations, the campground also offers designated tent sites for those preferring a more traditional camping experience.
• Cabin and Cottage Rentals: For campers seeking more comfort or without their own RV/tent, cabins and cottages are available for rent, providing a range of options from rustic to more amenity-rich stays.
• Swimming Area: The campground features a swimming area, likely a designated section of the lake or a beach, allowing guests to cool off and enjoy the water.
• Boat Launch & Dockage: With its lakeside location, the campground provides a boat launch for easy access to Cross Lake for boating and fishing. Dockage may also be available for those bringing their own watercraft.
• Recreation Hall: A recreation hall is on-site, offering a communal space for various activities and gatherings, especially useful for group events or rainy days.
• Camp Store: A general store is typically available at the campground, selling essential camping supplies, snacks, ice, and firewood.
• Laundromat: For longer stays or those needing to refresh their wardrobe, laundry facilities are usually provided.
• Restrooms & Showers: Modern restroom facilities with hot showers are expected amenities, ensuring comfort and hygiene for all campers.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes pets, although specific rules regarding leashing (pets must be on a leash) and waste disposal are in place to ensure a pleasant environment for all guests. There may be specific policies for aggressive dogs or dog park use if available.
• WiFi Access: Internet/Wi-Fi access is typically offered at such campgrounds, allowing campers to stay connected.

Features / Highlights

• Lakeside Location: The primary highlight is its prime location directly on Cross Lake, offering picturesque water views and immediate access for various water-based activities.
• Boating & Fishing: Cross Lake is known for good fishing, providing opportunities to catch various species. The campground's boat launch makes it easy for guests to enjoy motorboating, kayaking, or canoeing on the lake.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Described as a "family-oriented campground" and a "people-filled place to camp," it fosters a vibrant and engaging environment suitable for families with children of all ages.
• Recreation Hall: A dedicated recreation hall provides indoor space for activities, games, or social gatherings, offering an alternative when weather conditions are not ideal for outdoor play.
• Hayrides: Hayrides are a featured activity, adding a classic, fun, and nostalgic element to the camping experience, especially popular with families.
• Playground: A playground on-site ensures that younger campers have dedicated spaces for active play and enjoyment.
• Seasonal Camping Community: The campground attracts many seasonal campers, as noted by a review ("I’ve gone seasonal"), indicating a strong, friendly, and established community that contributes to a welcoming atmosphere.
• Owner & Family Involvement: Positive feedback highlights that "the owner and his family make for a great experience," suggesting a personal touch in management and a commitment to guest satisfaction.
• Proximity to Finger Lakes Attractions: While offering a serene lakeside escape, the campground is still within reach of the wider Finger Lakes region's attractions, including wineries, scenic drives, and other natural parks.

Promotions or Special Offers

Cross Lake Campground & RV Park, like many established and popular campgrounds, primarily offers value through its comprehensive amenities and welcoming environment rather than frequently advertised short-term promotional discounts. Their pricing structure typically reflects the services and facilities provided, with rates for daily, weekly, and potentially seasonal stays.

• Seasonal Site Availability: A significant aspect of their offering is the availability of seasonal sites. As noted by a review, many campers choose to become "seasonal" residents, which often comes with a more favorable long-term rate compared to nightly stays. Inquire directly about seasonal rates and availability if you plan for extended stays throughout the camping season.
• Group Rates: While not explicitly stated, campgrounds of this size and family orientation often offer discounted rates for large groups or organized events. It would be advisable to inquire about group bookings directly if planning a reunion, scout trip, or similar gathering.
• Loyalty Programs/Discounts: Some campgrounds participate in discount programs like Good Sam Club or AAA. It's always worth asking if Cross Lake Campground & RV Park offers any such affiliations for potential savings.
• Early Booking Advantages: For peak season or holiday weekends, booking well in advance is crucial to secure a desired spot, especially for lakeside or full-hookup sites. While not a "promotion," securing your spot early ensures you don't miss out.
• Abiding by Rules for Best Experience: One reviewer noted, "as long as you abide by park rules," the experience is great. This suggests that the campground fosters a respectful community, which in itself is a "promotion" for a pleasant and trouble-free stay for all guests.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, any limited-time offers, or seasonal opportunities, prospective campers should directly contact Cross Lake Campground & RV Park via phone.

Contact Information

Cross Lake Campground & RV ParkAddress: 11150 Duger Rd, Cato, NY 13033, USAPhone: (315) 626-4048

For reservations, inquiries about site availability (including seasonal sites), cabin/cottage rentals, or details on specific park amenities and activities, the most reliable method is to contact the campground directly by phone. Their friendly staff can provide the most current information to assist you in planning your visit to this popular New York destination.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For New York locals, Cross Lake Campground & RV Park in Cato offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for a family-friendly outdoor getaway. Its prime location directly on Cross Lake in the beautiful Finger Lakes region provides a readily accessible escape without requiring extensive travel for many residents across Central New York and beyond. This proximity allows for convenient weekend trips or longer seasonal stays, making it a true home away from home for many.

The campground’s vast size and diverse offerings – from RV and tent sites with essential hookups to cozy cabin rentals – cater to a wide range of preferences and comfort levels. This flexibility means that whether you’re a seasoned RVer, a traditional tent camper, or looking for a comfortable cabin, Cross Lake Campground has a spot for you. The immediate access to the lake for swimming, boating, and fishing is a major draw, providing endless opportunities for water-based fun and relaxation.

What truly elevates Cross Lake Campground & RV Park as a top choice for locals is its vibrant, "people-filled" atmosphere and the strong sense of community, fostered by dedicated owners and staff. The availability of amenities like a recreation hall, playground, and unique activities such as hayrides ensures that families and children are consistently entertained. For New Yorkers seeking a lively, amenity-rich, and community-focused camping experience right in their backyard, Cross Lake Campground & RV Park stands out as a highly recommended destination for creating cherished outdoor memories by the lake.

Cross Lake Campground & RV Park

11150 Duger Rd, Cato, NY 13033, USA