Hughes Marina & Campground, Williamson, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents seeking the quintessential Great Lakes experience combined with the relaxation of a classic campground setting, Hughes Marina & Campground in Williamson, NY, stands out as a premier destination. Located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region, this unique establishment offers a seamless blend of traditional camping and a full-service marina, making it a perfect getaway for both land-based and water-bound enthusiasts. Operating as a campground since 1959, the site has a deep history of providing a friendly, park-like, and family-oriented setting for New Yorkers.

Hughes Marina & Campground is a small, tucked-away retreat situated right on the Lake Ontario coastline, offering a truly visceral experience with the ever-changing and always beautiful lake. Many visitors, including first-time campers, are immediately impressed by the welcoming nature of the owners and the well-maintained facilities. It’s a place where children are shown how to fish, where kayaking is a highlight, and where the sense of community is strong. Whether you are driving your RV up from the Southern Tier, traveling across from Western New York, or simply looking for a staycation a short drive from Rochester, this is a destination designed for relaxation, fishing, and boating adventure on one of the Great Lakes. The destination is open seasonally, generally from May through October, ensuring optimal summer and early fall enjoyment.

Location and Accessibility

The strategic location of Hughes Marina & Campground makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the New York region, yet it retains the secluded, peaceful feel of a genuine waterfront retreat.

The official address is:

5003 Lake Rd, Williamson, NY 14589, USA

This address places the campground directly on the shores of Lake Ontario, specifically in the town of Williamson in Wayne County, New York. Williamson is part of the picturesque Finger Lakes region, known for its agricultural heritage, local wineries, and proximity to the Great Lake.

Accessibility details:

The campground is conveniently situated approximately a half-hour drive east of the greater Rochester metropolitan area, making it an easy weekend escape for urban and suburban New Yorkers. It is also well-positioned for visitors coming from the east, with Syracuse being about an hour’s drive away. The easy driving distance from major population centers in Western and Central New York minimizes travel time and maximizes vacation time. Furthermore, the location is near several local attractions, including wineries like Young Sommer Winery, historical sites like the Williamson-Pultneyville Historical Society Museum, and charming local eateries such as Orbaker's Drive In Restaurant, ensuring there are plenty of activities for when you're not out on the water. The access road is Lake Road, which offers direct and simple navigation for RVs and boats, leading right to the two on-site boat ramps for immediate access to Lake Ontario.

Services Offered

Hughes Marina & Campground provides a comprehensive suite of services that cater to both campers and boaters, ensuring a convenient and fulfilling stay for all New York visitors. The dual nature of the facility—part campground, part marina—allows for a unique range of offerings.

Key services available to guests include:

LI Campsites for RVs and Tents: The campground offers a total of 33 sites, including spacious campsites for RVs with full hookups (water, electric, sewer) and dedicated areas for tent camping, accommodating both short-term and extended-stay visitors.

LI Full-Service Marina: The marina offers seasonal, weekly, and overnight boat docking options, making it a convenient stop for boaters traversing Lake Ontario.

LI Boat Launch Access: Two on-site boat ramps provide immediate and easy access to Lake Ontario, popular among local fishermen and recreational boaters.

LI Fuel and Propane: The facility sells ethanol-free gasoline, which is highly beneficial for boat engines, along with propane exchange services for RVs and grills.

LI Watercraft Rentals: Guests can rent kayaks and paddleboats, providing an accessible and fun way for families and first-timers to explore the local waterways.

LI Fishing Charters and Bait: The site is a common pick-up point for fishing charter services, and bait is available for purchase, catering directly to the avid Lake Ontario angler.

LI Storage Solutions: The marina provides boat and RV storage for local New York residents and seasonal visitors.

LI Essential Amenities: The facility includes a camp store (general store), clean showers and restroom facilities, and Wi-Fi access in common areas.

LI Pet-Friendly Environment: The campground welcomes pets, allowing New York families to bring their whole family, including their four-legged members, on vacation.

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Features / Highlights

The highlights of a stay at Hughes Marina & Campground are deeply rooted in its unparalleled access to Lake Ontario and its reputation as a haven for fishing and relaxation.

The most notable features that draw New York locals are:

LI Direct Lake Ontario Access: The most significant highlight is the two dedicated boat ramps and ample docking, providing immediate entry to one of the Great Lakes for boating, sailing, and fishing.

LI World-Class Fishing Destination: The marina is known as a hub for Lake Ontario’s King Salmon and trout fishery. Professional charters often operate from here, and the availability of bait and the overall location make it a prime spot for local anglers.

LI Authentic Local Experience: The facility has been a community fixture since 1959, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere where the owners often go the extra mile, such as showing children how to fish, creating memorable and authentic New York experiences.

LI Ideal for Multi-Purpose Trips: The combination of the marina and campground makes it perfect for trips that involve both water activity (boating, fishing, kayaking) and land-based relaxation (RV/tent camping, barbecuing, exploring the Finger Lakes region).

LI Convenience of Full Hookups: The availability of full hookup RV sites caters to the modern camper, offering a comfortable and stress-free stay with water, electricity, and sewer services directly at the site.

LI Picturesque Waterfront Views: Whether you are docking your boat or relaxing at your site, the campground offers opportunities to observe Lake Ontario's wildlife and enjoy the "ever-changing and always beautiful" spectacle of the lake.

LI Nearby Attractions: The campground is a convenient starting point for exploring local Wayne County attractions, including the region’s growing cider and wine trails, and local parks.

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Contact Information

For reservations, marina services, or general inquiries about camping, New York residents can contact Hughes Marina & Campground using the information below:

Address:

5003 Lake Rd, Williamson, NY 14589, USA

Phone:

(315) 589-2752

Mobile Phone:

+1 315-589-2752

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Hughes Marina & Campground is exceptionally suitable for New York locals for several compelling reasons, primarily its unique positioning as a true Great Lakes vacation hub that doesn't require a long-distance road trip. For residents of Rochester, Syracuse, and the surrounding areas, it offers a quick, accessible escape that feels far removed from city life. This convenience encourages more frequent, shorter visits—perfect for weekend fishing trips or spontaneous family getaways.

The core appeal lies in its combination of a functioning marina and a relaxed campground, a setup that perfectly caters to the state’s strong culture of outdoor recreation. Whether you are an experienced boater or a family just wanting to try kayaking for the first time, the facilities accommodate all skill levels. The long-standing reputation as a friendly, well-kept, family-oriented environment—as attested by many customer reviews—means locals can trust they are choosing a stable and welcoming place. In a state with many camping options, Hughes Marina & Campground provides the distinct value proposition of direct, unencumbered access to Lake Ontario’s massive expanse and famed fishing grounds, offering an unparalleled waterfront experience right in the heart of Western New York. It is, simply put, a local treasure for those who cherish the New York outdoors.