Empire Rv Park At The Ny State Fairgrounds
00 review581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse, New York, 13209, United States
Empire Rv Park At The Ny State Fairgrounds
$61.00 - $610.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$610.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
During the annual State Fair (August 17 - September 3, 2024), the fee is $610 for a 17-night stay, plus a $7.25 reservation fee. For non-Fair periods (May 1 - October 31, excluding blackout dates), the nightly rate is $61 plus a $7.25 reservation fee.
About this campground
Empire RV Park welcomes travelers to a unique camping experience at the historic New York State Fairgrounds, where modern RV conveniences meet centuries of tradition. This full-service RV destination provides comprehensive hookups for water, electric, and sewer, creating a comfortable basecamp for exploring Syracuse and beyond. During the legendary New York State Fair, the park transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, hosting thousands of visitors who come to celebrate this cherished annual tradition.
Empire RV Park is dedicated primarily to RV camping and does not allow tent camping. It operates in conjunction with the New York State Fair, making it ideal for visitors looking for accommodations near the Fairgrounds.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history comes alive at the birthplace of America's state fair tradition. Since 1841, these hallowed grounds have hosted the nation's first and oldest state fair, making Empire RV Park a gateway to over 180 years of agricultural heritage, innovation, and community celebration. Your RV site places you at the heart of New York's most enduring cultural institution, where generations of families have created lasting memories.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Central New York's dynamic seasons at Empire RV Park. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland with moderate snowfall and crisp, freezing temperatures perfect for nearby winter activities. As spring awakens, comfortable temperatures invite outdoor exploration along nearby trails. Summer arrives with warm, humid days ideal for lakeside adventures and evening strolls. Fall paints the region in brilliant colors, offering some of the year's most pleasant camping weather with cool, refreshing temperatures.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable urban elevation in the heart of Syracuse, Empire RV Park offers easy, level camping without the challenges of mountain altitudes. This accessible location means you can enjoy all the conveniences of RV travel without worrying about elevation-related adjustments to your vehicle or comfort.
Natural Features and SceneryWhile Empire RV Park embraces its urban setting, nature lovers will discover surprising outdoor escapes just moments away. The nearby shores of Onondaga Lake beckon with scenic walking and biking trails that wind along the waterfront, offering peaceful morning jogs or sunset cycling adventures. This unique blend of city convenience and natural recreation creates an ideal basecamp for travelers seeking both urban amenities and outdoor experiences.
Geological RegionSituated in Syracuse's historic fairgrounds, Empire RV Park occupies the gentle, level terrain of the Onondaga Lake region. This advantageous flat topography, shaped by ancient glacial activity, provides easy navigation for RVs of all sizes while keeping you connected to the urban heartbeat of Central New York. The surrounding landscape tells the story of the Finger Lakes geological region, where fertile plains meet thriving communities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBathroom and shower facilities are accessible and located at both ends of the park, but no further details are provided regarding specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, and campers must fit all their vehicles, RVs, and accessories within the designated boundaries without encroaching on neighboring spaces.
Sites PrivacyCampers must ensure their RVs and additional items do not encroach on neighboring sites, but the park does not provide specific details on site spacing or privacy.
Total Campsites272 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from fairground event areas for less noise and more privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
The stay limit during the fair is 17 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in numbered rows (e.g., Row A, Row B) within the fairgrounds.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - October 31 annually. Closed during Syracuse Nationals (July 10-23), and blackout dates August 1 - September 6.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or through the call center; walk-ins are not permitted.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled prior to the first night; fees may be forfeited if the site is not occupied by 9 PM on the check-in day.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Empire RV Park does not offer specific recreational activities within the campground itself. However, its location within the New York State Fairgrounds provides access to a range of attractions during the New York State Fair, including food, music, rides, and entertainment. Additionally, a scenic walking and biking trail along Onondaga Lake is located nearby.
Hiking
A scenic walking and biking trail along Onondaga Lake is accessible across the road from the Fairgrounds.Biking
The nearby trail along Onondaga Lake offers opportunities for biking.Cultural and Educational Programs
Cultural and entertainment programs are central to the New York State Fair experience, featuring a variety of musical acts, food offerings, and exhibitions.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are not mentioned; likely not allowed due to urban regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsNo specific hazards noted; standard RV safety requirements apply, including the use of holding tanks for health reasons.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest emergency services include St. Joseph’s Health Hospital (~5 miles) and Syracuse Police Department (~5 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 17 - September 3, 2024.
Trash and recyclingAll trash must be placed in plastic bags and deposited in dumpsters provided for disposal. Campers are responsible for keeping their areas free of trash.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Onondaga Lake with access to walking and biking trails.
Common complaintsSites are tightly packed and lack privacy. Some users mention limited shade and urban noise.
Campground Map
581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse, New York, 13209, United States
Driving directionsThe New York State Fairgrounds is located just West of the city of Syracuse in the Town of Geddes, immediately adjacent to I-690 at exit 7. It is easily accessible from the New York State Thruway (I-90) from the West and East, and from I-81, North and South. Just follow signs to the Fairgrounds once you enter the Syracuse area. All vehicles for the Empire RV Park will enter at Gate 7.
The campground is adjacent to I-690 at exit 7, providing direct access from major highways including I-90 (New York State Thruway) and I-81. Roads leading to the site are paved and usable for larger RVs.Nearby places
Buffalo (150 miles, ~2.5 hours), Rochester (87 miles, ~1.5 hours), Albany (145 miles, ~2.5 hours), Watertown (72 miles, ~1.5 hours), Binghamton (75 miles, ~1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Provisions available at Destiny USA mall (~4 miles) for food, camping supplies, and shopping needs. Gas stations located within 5 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Empire Rv Park At The Ny State Fairgrounds has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are directly referenced in the authoritative source.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The park provides essential amenities such as water, sewer, and electric hookups, which is appreciated by RV campers. Proximity to the New York State Fair and other local attractions is also a major...
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Common Concerns
Specific complaints or issues raised by users are not provided in the source materials.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Ensure your RV is equipped with all necessary hoses and cords for hookups, as these are not provided by the park.
Seasonal Insights
The park is heavily used during the New York State Fair season, from mid-August to early September. Availability is limited during these times, and blackout dates apply.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the Empire RV Park area if they are licensed and properly restrained. Exhibition areas of the Fairgrounds are off-limits to pets unless they are service animals or involved in...
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Last updated August 10, 2025