The Oneida County communities of Vernon and Verona in central New York State are full of recreational opportunities for people of all ages, incomes and activity levels. Just east of Syracuse and located at the junction of Oneida Lake and the Erie Canal, activities in the Vernon-Verona area range from tent camping and hiking, to world-class restaurants and spa facilities.
Beaches and Parks
Verona Beach State Park is a year-round source of activities despite its summer-like name. This park features hiking trails, picnic facilities, and as the name implies, a sandy beach. In the winter, ice fishermen and cross-country skiers also enjoy the park. A few miles to the north lies the community of Sylvan Beach, with more public beach facilities, family dining and an amusement park. Of course, no lake would be without a marina; the Verona/Sylvan area has a couple to choose from.
Camping
Near the beach, outdoor lovers can find several public and private campsite areas. Whether you're a traditionalist in a tent, roughing it in an RV, or camping in a cabin, there's a little something for everyone. Some campgrounds have direct access to Oneida Lake via the famous Erie Canal; others are a few minutes' drive away from the waterfront.
Gaming
If you think Lady Luck is on your side, the Vernon-Verona area may have the amenities for you. It's home to two casinos--Vernon Downs and Turning Stone Resort. The former is a "racino" that offers horse racing and video gaming, and recently added a hotel. The latter features a high-rise hotel, restaurants, spa, banquet facilities and concerts in addition to table gaming, slots and bingo. Turning Stone also features tax-free shopping because of its status as part of an Indian nation. The two casinos are within a few miles of one another.
For Sports Fans
Folks come to Turning Stone to win some green, but many stay to play the greens too. The resort features several world-class golf courses and hosts a major PGA tournament annually. For those who prefer to swing a fist instead of a golf club, take a short drive west to the nearby village of Canastota, the home of the International Boxing Hall of Fame. You can even rub shoulders with famous fighters there each summer during the yearly induction.
Historic Sites
The Vernon-Verona area has deep roots in early American history---about as early as one can get, considering the Oneida Indians have lived in the area for centuries. The region was also strategically important during the Revolutionary War and the early years of the United States. Nearby historic sites like Fort Stanwix, Oriskany Battlefield and numerous spots along the old Erie Canal remain open to visitors to this day, featuring an array of programs for adults and children.
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