Camping opportunities extend beyond designated RV parks near Au Sable Forks, New York, with options ranging from full-service resorts to more basic facilities throughout the Adirondack and Champlain Valley regions. Located at approximately 550 feet elevation where the east and west branches of the Ausable River converge, the area features a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Golf on-site: Apple Island Resort features a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green for campers seeking recreational activities without leaving the campground. "We stayed there the last week of the season so things were very quiet. Study the sites carefully because our 'premium view site' looked into a boulder," notes one visitor who recommends carefully reviewing site options before booking.
Mine for gems: Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers gem mining activities popular with both adults and children. "The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!! We enjoyed the water view and the staff was so nice to us!" shares one camper. Another adds, "Being a fan of gems, I definitely bought an embarrassing amount of dirt for the gem mining(Got some good finds, so worth it!)"
Explore Fort Ticonderoga: Military history buffs can visit Fort Ticonderoga, located near Brookwood RV Resort. "Ft. Ticonderoga and Lake George are right around the corner," confirms a camper. Another notes the convenience: "Easy access to Fort Ticonderoga, restaurants in town and Lake George area."
What campers like
Private waterfall access: Davey Falls ADK offers secluded sites with natural water features not found at larger facilities. "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails," reports one camper, adding it's the "Perfect location to explore eastern Adk."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness at Smugglers Notch RV Village, a newer establishment. "This is new campground opened this past season. This is our 3rd visit and it gets better each time... a beautiful well kept bath house and a small but well stocked store," notes a repeat visitor.
Peaceful environment: Quieter camping experiences attract visitors seeking respite from busier destinations. "Located far out in nature, the views are breathtaking. Owner was really nice and helpful," notes a visitor to Iron City RV Park. Another camper at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks shared, "First time camping solo- great place! Felt safe and campground was quiet and clean."
What you should know
Wi-Fi reliability varies: Internet connectivity fluctuates significantly between rv parks in Au Sable Forks, New York and surrounding campgrounds. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, a camper reported, "Wifi at campsite was inconsistent and unreliable. Had to work from rec center and pool which was ok but not what we were told." Conversely, Smugglers Notch RV Village receives praise for connectivity: "They also have great WIFI."
Seasonal operations: Most facilities close by mid-October, with the majority opening around May 1st. Brookwood RV Resort operates May 15-October 15, while Apple Island Resort runs May 1 to October 20, giving slightly more extended season options for late autumn campers.
Site selection matters: At Apple Island Resort, one camper advised, "The sites with the best views are the Platinum Plus which are also the most expensive. Some Platinum Plus sites are in the first row with unobstructed views; whereas, our site was three rows back. Not sure why they charge the same when our site was overlooking two rows of RVs."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Iroquois Campground & RV Park provides family-friendly recreational facilities. "They have a beautiful pond and its peaceful environment great for families and camp owners are helpful and polite," notes one family's first-time experience in their motorhome.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for children. At Brookwood RV Resort, facilities include a "Beautiful pool" according to visitor reviews. Apple Island Resort similarly features "a nice pool with plenty of chairs and umbrellas. The pool opens at 9am for adult lap swims for an hour."
Pet policies: Family camping often includes pets, and policies vary by location. Shady Oaks Camping Resort is noted as "pet friendly" in reviews, while Plattsburgh RV Park prohibits pets entirely. One visitor to Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks mentioned, "Husband and I took a trip with all 3 pups and I couldn't even tell you who had more fun!! The doggos and husband absolutely loved being able to walk the beautiful trail."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: At Apple Island Resort, RVers should note the unusual hookup configurations: "One thing is that their hook ups are on the passenger side. You have to pull straight in with the truck and camper. This is because a lot of class A prefer this way."
Big rig access: Many rv parks near Au Sable Forks accommodate larger motorhomes with proper planning. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, one reviewer noted, "Sites somewhat small and tight but there are some larger sites." Meanwhile, Shady Oaks Camping Resort was described as a "Great Place for Big Rigs" with "Mostly Seasonal area with some overnight spots. No tents allowed. But pet friendly."
Hookup quality: Water pressure, electrical connections, and drainage capabilities vary significantly. At Apple Island Resort, one RVer observed, "The hook-ups at our site (11AD) were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.'"
