Seasonal camping options near Alplaus, New York range from rustic forest sites to family-oriented campgrounds with recreational facilities. Most campgrounds in this part of New York operate from May through October, closing during winter months when temperatures drop and precipitation increases. The terrain features a mix of woodlands, lakeshores, and rivers providing diverse camping environments with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,400 feet above sea level.
What to do
Swimming and boating access: At Thompson's Lake Campground, water activities are central to the camping experience. "They have a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals, a nature center next door you can walk to and the bathrooms are refurbished! It's absolutely beautiful!" The lake provides summer recreation options for campers without traveling offsite.
Hiking on established trails: Ushers Road State Forest offers hiking opportunities for campers looking to explore local woodlands. A camper notes, "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
Bird watching and wildlife observation: Schodack Island State Park provides excellent bird watching opportunities. As one visitor reports: "Stopped for one night on way from New England to Finger Lakes region... Best part was hiking out to a couple of different blinds to look for birds. Did see a juv eagle." The park's location on the Hudson River creates diverse habitat for birds and other wildlife.
What campers like
Private waterfront camping: Many sites at Northampton Beach Campground offer direct water access. According to a camper, "Many campsites with lakeside access, although do pay attention to the time of year as the water level can drop considerably over the summer." Waterfront sites tend to book quickly during peak season.
Spacious campsites with natural barriers: Campers appreciate the privacy and space at several campgrounds near Alplaus. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "I love the spacious campsites. It's very woodsy between sites, so it seems very private. Bathrooms and Showers are clean. Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks, I've visited."
Proximity to local attractions: Location convenience matters to many campers. Thompson's Lake visitors appreciate that "The biggest draw is the proximity to the Capital District. Less than an hour from Albany, so it's an easy way to get out of the city for a day or two." This makes camping near Alplaus suitable for weekend trips from urban areas.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds around Alplaus close during winter. Frosty Acres Campground operates "from May to October," though one reviewer notes they have "a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires."
Bathroom and shower availability varies: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. At Northampton Beach Campground, a camper reported, "The bathrooms were pretty awful though. The showers were broken and there was no hot water the entire 5 days we were there."
Event-based crowding: During concerts at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, nearby campgrounds experience high demand. Lee's Park Campground becomes especially busy. A visitor advises: "If you're staying here for SPAC shows, I would pack your earplugs, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, arrive as early as possible so you can park your car near where you pitch your tent."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Thompson's Lake Campground provides amenities specifically for children. A returning visitor explains: "This campground has always been my go to. Now that I have kids, I appreciate the playground area near the beach more. All public areas including the bathrooms are very clean."
Water activities for different ages: Multiple swimming options exist for families with children of varying ages. At Adventure Bound Camping Resort, a parent shares, "Family oriented. The kids loved love water attractions. Our site was large and shaded."
Nature education opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature centers or environmental programs. Schodack Island State Park features educational components, with "Large playground, boat ramp and hiking/biking trails. It sits under some extremely large cottonwood trees and there is an abundance of wildlife."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at some campsites near Alplaus. At Adventure Bound, a camper notes: "The drawback is where you need to park the camper is about 7 inches out of level. If we stay in the same site again we would come better prepared."
Electricity options: For RVers requiring hookups, Arrowhead Marina & RV Park provides full services. A visitor reports, "This was one of our favorite campgrounds of our cross-country trip. Our site was back-in and had plenty of space. There's a lot of green space in this campground and it's right on the river."
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size and access. Moreau Lake State Park has good facilities but limited access. "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)."
