Cabin camping near Au Sable Forks, New York offers access to the western shore of Lake Champlain at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet. The region experiences warm summers with average highs of 80°F and cold winters where temperatures often drop below freezing. Many rental cabins in this area operate seasonally from mid-May through October, though several campgrounds maintain year-round availability despite the Adirondack region's heavy winter snowfall.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: The AuSable Chasm Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness. "Cute and Quaint...tucked into the woods with town only being a few miles away," notes Levi M., who appreciated the campground's strategic location between outdoor activities and necessary services.
Water activities on Lake Champlain: Visitors staying at Apple Island Resort have direct access to lakefront recreation. According to Nancy W., "Across the street is a marina with rental boats/kayaks and a boat launch. We launched our paddleboard and kayak there... We were allowed to leave our kayak locked on a rack at the marina so we didn't have to take it back to our campsite every day."
Winter sports access: While most cabin rentals close for winter, Shelburne Camping Area maintains year-round operation with cabins that serve as convenient bases for winter sports enthusiasts. Ryan D. confirms it's "a quick place to camp if you're passing through," making it practical for weekend ski trips to nearby mountains.
What campers like
Secluded cabin placement: At Draper's Acres, visitors appreciate the separation between accommodation types. Eric M. explains, "This site has good tent sites that are separate from RV area and rental cabins. Very reasonable rates and friendly staff, also showers on site though they're a bit rustic."
Waterfront cabin options: Rental cabins with lake views rank among the most requested accommodations. Tara S. notes that Button Bay State Park Campground "has a few waterfront camping cabins, which we are dying to check out, but haven't yet," highlighting their popularity and limited availability.
Multi-room cabin configurations: Many visitors seek cabins with separate sleeping areas. At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, Nicole S. describes their accommodations: "They have cabins, tent site areas, and huge wooded camper sites. The mountain side in general is my ideal campground full of trees and nature."
What you should know
Advance booking requirements: Premium cabin rentals fill quickly, especially those with lake views or private locations. Nancy W. shares her experience at Grand Isle State Park Campground: "We've been camping at Button Bay for years... We almost always get the Catalpa or Willow lean-to because we bring dogs and it's easy for them to run to the lake and cool off."
Seasonal closures and limitations: Most cabin facilities operate only during warmer months. Garrett D. warns about shoulder season camping: "The showers were free however we froze. The bath house was unheated and the showers were lukewarm at best," indicating the challenges of early or late season stays.
Pet policies vary significantly: Campgrounds with cabins typically require vaccination records for pets. Clay A. notes, "Rangers were ridiculously nice. Sites were big and grass covered; but without many trees for hammocks," indicating the importance of verifying amenities that matter to your specific camping style.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly cabin amenities: Family cabins often include specific features for children. Kimberly S. describes her experience: "Great Cabins! Lots to do!" emphasizing the importance of selecting accommodations with appropriate activities for children.
Nature programs and activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, Shelly shares, "We went here for our first stay in our class c motorhome and had a wonderful weekend they have a beautiful pond and its peaceful environment great for families."
Swimming options: Pools and swimming areas rank high with families staying in cabins. Heather M. reports, "3 night stay, tent camping on a site with water and electric. The site we had was quite large," noting that adequate space for family activities matters regardless of accommodation type.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives when RVing: Some RV travelers book cabins for additional guests. Kristine B. describes the Lake Placid KOA: "We reserved a full hook up 50a pull through for 3 nights as we toured the northeast. Check in was a little tricky, as we missed the 'REGISTRATION' sign at the Lodge and had to drive around again."
Winter cabin access: Year-round cabin rentals provide options when RV systems might freeze. DJ shares about Shelburne, "We came in just after it got dark. Loved town of Shelburne. Awesome little shops and great, well stocked little local grocery store," highlighting the importance of local amenities when staying in cabins during colder months.
Combined stay options: Some travelers mix cabin and RV camping during extended trips. Brett N. notes, "Our site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The office sells firewood," demonstrating how cabins can serve as bases for various camping setups.