Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine lakeside escape with a strong sense of community and direct access to the beautiful waters of Lake Ontario, Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina in Three Mile Bay, NY, offers a compelling choice. This established destination, with a history spanning decades, provides a unique blend of camping and boating amenities, making it particularly attractive for those who love to combine their outdoor adventures with time on the water. While primarily known for its seasonal residents who have created a lasting community, Hidden Harbor also welcomes transient visitors looking for a peaceful and well-located spot to pitch a tent, park an RV, or dock a boat.

Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina embodies the spirit of classic New York lakeside living. Its long-standing presence, with some residents enjoying their "own place here for 9 seasons so far and loving it," and others having been "at the campground for 21 years," speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and strong sense of belonging it fosters. This longevity indicates a consistent level of satisfaction and a comfortable, familiar environment that many return to year after year. For newcomers, this established community offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the surroundings.

The core of Hidden Harbor's charm lies in its direct connection to the water. As both a campground and a marina, it caters to those who seek both land-based relaxation and aquatic adventures. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the lake, spending your day fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the tranquil views, and then returning to your cozy campsite or RV. While there might be practical aspects, such as road conditions, that visitors should be aware of, the overall sentiment points to a beloved and well-utilized location for a refreshing and memorable outdoor experience in the heart of Northern New York. This unique dual offering truly sets Hidden Harbor apart as a destination for active and relaxed outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina is strategically located at 4813 Hidden Harbor Rd, Three Mile Bay, NY 13693, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of Lake Ontario, specifically nestled within the protected waters of Three Mile Bay. This location is a significant advantage for boaters and water enthusiasts, providing sheltered access to the vast expanse of Lake Ontario and its renowned fishing and recreational opportunities. Three Mile Bay itself is a quaint and picturesque hamlet in Jefferson County, known for its serene atmosphere and strong connection to the water.

For New Yorkers, Hidden Harbor is situated in the northern part of the state, roughly an hour north of Syracuse and about a two-hour drive from Rochester. For those coming from the Capital Region or New York City, the journey is longer but entirely manageable for a dedicated vacation. The drive to Three Mile Bay often involves scenic routes through upstate New York, showcasing the region's natural beauty.

While the natural setting is a highlight, one review mentions that "the road that takes u back in the camp sites needs to be done there r big potholes and it can ruin the cars." This is important practical information for visitors, suggesting that caution should be exercised when navigating the internal roads, especially for vehicles with lower clearance or those towing RVs. Despite this specific note, the overall accessibility to the general area of Three Mile Bay via main state routes remains good, guiding visitors directly to this unique lakeside retreat. The charm of its hidden, secluded nature often outweighs the minor inconvenience of its internal access, promising a true escape once you arrive.

Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina provides a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both its long-term seasonal residents and transient visitors. As a dual-purpose facility, its offerings cater to both land-based campers and those who arrive by water.

• Campsites: The campground offers a variety of sites suitable for different camping styles. While reviews primarily highlight seasonal occupancy, implying full hookup RV sites, it is typical for such establishments to also offer electric and water sites, and potentially primitive tent sites. These sites generally provide space for an RV or tent, often with picnic tables and fire rings, allowing guests to set up their temporary home.

• Marina Services: A core component of Hidden Harbor is its marina. This includes boat slips for rent, accommodating various boat sizes and providing direct water access to Port Bay and Lake Ontario. Marina services typically encompass dockage, access to fueling facilities (though not explicitly stated, common for marinas), and possibly minor boat maintenance or supply provisions, catering specifically to the needs of boaters.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Like most campgrounds, Hidden Harbor would provide communal restroom and shower facilities for guests. While specific details on these facilities are not provided in the reviews, their presence is standard for maintaining guest comfort.

• Seasonal and Transient Options: The campground clearly caters to both long-term seasonal campers, who have their "own place here for 9 seasons," and shorter-term "visit" guests. This flexibility allows different types of travelers to enjoy the facilities.

• On-Site Management: The longevity of the campground suggests a consistent on-site management team, available to assist guests with their needs, manage facilities, and maintain the welcoming atmosphere.

Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina boasts several key features and highlights that contribute to its appeal and define the unique experience it offers to visitors.

• Direct Lake Ontario Access: A paramount highlight is the immediate and direct access to Lake Ontario. For boaters and anglers, this means convenient launching and docking, allowing for effortless exploration of the lake's vast fishing grounds and recreational opportunities. For non-boaters, it offers stunning lake views and the serenity of a lakeside environment.

• Established Seasonal Community: The campground is characterized by a strong, long-standing seasonal community. Reviews indicate that many individuals have had their "own place here for 9 seasons so far" and have been "at the campground for 21 years." This creates a friendly, familiar, and welcoming atmosphere, often leading to lasting friendships and a sense of belonging for both new and returning visitors.

• Peaceful and Relaxing Environment: Despite catering to both campers and boaters, the overall ambiance of Hidden Harbor is generally peaceful. The "not a bad place to visit" sentiment, coupled with the long-term residents' contentment, suggests a calm and relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding away from city life.

• Boating and Fishing Hub: Given its marina facilities and location on Three Mile Bay, Hidden Harbor serves as an excellent hub for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The bay's protected waters offer ideal conditions for various water activities, while Lake Ontario provides world-class fishing opportunities for species like salmon, trout, and walleye.

• Proximity to Northern New York Attractions: While Hidden Harbor offers a secluded feel, its location in Three Mile Bay provides access to the broader Northern New York and Thousand Islands region. This means guests can easily explore charming towns, historical sites, state parks, and other natural attractions in the surrounding area, adding variety to their vacation.

• Potential for Rustic Charm: While one review notes issues with internal roads ("big potholes"), this might also suggest a more rustic and less commercialized camping experience, which appeals to some campers seeking a more traditional outdoor setting. This is a practical consideration for visitors, but for many, the charm of a less manicured environment adds to the authentic camping feel.

Based on the provided information, which emphasizes the long-term seasonal nature of many stays ("Had my own place here for 9 seasons so far and loving it. Been at the campground for 21 years!"), it's clear that Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina likely prioritizes long-term occupancy and loyalty. Therefore, specific "promotions" in the traditional sense (e.g., discounted weekend rates advertised broadly) may be less common than established seasonal rates or benefits for returning guests.

• Seasonal Site Pricing: The primary "special offer" or value proposition is likely the availability of seasonal sites for RVs and possibly long-term boat slip rentals. These typically offer significant cost savings compared to daily or weekly rates, rewarding long-term commitment. This structure fosters the strong community atmosphere observed in reviews.

• Long-Term Guest Benefits: While not explicitly stated, establishments with a high number of long-term residents often offer certain amenities or perks included in their seasonal fees, or perhaps priority for returning for the next season. This builds customer loyalty.

• Transient Rates: For shorter stays, Hidden Harbor would have standard daily or weekly rates for both campsites and boat slips. These rates would be competitive with similar facilities in the Lake Ontario region.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability for seasonal or transient stays, and any potential offers, it is highly recommended to contact Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina directly. Given its emphasis on seasonal guests, early inquiry for future seasons would also be advisable.

To learn more about Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina, inquire about seasonal site availability, or plan your next visit, you can reach them using the following contact details:

• Address: 4813 Hidden Harbor Rd, Three Mile Bay, NY 13693, USA

• Phone: (315) 783-1201

• Mobile Phone: +1 315-783-1201

The team at Hidden Harbor is best equipped to provide specific details regarding site types, marina services, and availability, ensuring your questions are thoroughly answered for a smooth planning process.

For New Yorkers, Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina in Three Mile Bay offers a unique and highly suitable option for those seeking a dedicated lakeside lifestyle or a peaceful escape with a strong connection to the water. Its enduring popularity, evidenced by the many long-term seasonal residents who have called it home for years, speaks volumes about its ability to foster a welcoming community and provide a consistent, enjoyable experience.

The primary reason Hidden Harbor is so well-suited for locals, particularly those in Northern New York or within a reasonable driving distance, is its unparalleled direct access to Lake Ontario. For boating enthusiasts, fishermen, or anyone who simply loves being by the water, the combination of a campground and marina is incredibly convenient. It allows for seamless transitions from land-based relaxation to aquatic adventures, whether that's a day of fishing for salmon, cruising the bay, or simply enjoying the serene views from your dock or campsite. This dual functionality is a significant draw that sets it apart from many other camping destinations.

Furthermore, the established seasonal community at Hidden Harbor creates a unique social environment. For New Yorkers looking to build lasting friendships and feel a sense of belonging in their leisure time, this campground offers that opportunity. It’s a place where neighbors become friends, and shared experiences on the water or around the campfire create a vibrant, close-knit atmosphere. This sense of community often translates to a safer, more enjoyable, and consistently well-maintained environment, as residents often take pride in their shared space.

While a practical note about internal road conditions suggests a more rustic charm, for many New Yorkers seeking an authentic and less commercialized outdoor experience, this only adds to its appeal. It’s a place where the focus is truly on the natural surroundings and the enjoyment of lakeside living. Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina is more than just a place to park your RV or dock your boat; it's a long-standing tradition for many, a true "hidden gem" that offers a consistent, community-focused, and water-centric escape right here in New York State. If you're a local seeking a genuine lakeside retreat with a strong sense of community, Hidden Harbor awaits.

Hidden Harbor Campground and Marina

4813 Hidden Harbor Rd, Three Mile Bay, NY 13693, USA