Camping options near Boonville, New York range from rustic forest sites to developed facilities with modern amenities. The region sits at the western edge of the Adirondack Park, with elevations typically between 1,200-1,800 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature drops into the 30s after sunset.
What to do
Tubing adventures: West Canada Creek Campground offers a popular tubing experience with a shuttle service. "There's a shuttle from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking," notes a visitor, though another mentions "$15 per person for the tubing shuttle seems steep."
Diamond mining excursions: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA combines camping with gem hunting. "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space," reports one camper. This activity serves as the centerpiece for family trips: "This was part of our gemstone trip which including sluicing, diamond mining, visiting the gemstone museum."
Early morning paddling: The quiet waters at Nicks Lake Campground provide ideal conditions for kayaking. A regular visitor describes: "I love getting up early in the morning before everyone else, and kayaking on the lake. I almost feel like I am the only one on the water (and sometimes I am)." The lake prohibits motorized boats, creating a peaceful paddling environment.
What campers like
Natural lake isolation: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers remote camping without development. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," reports one visitor. Another adds, "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Waterfront hookups: Delta Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its lakefront sites with utilities. "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise," shares one camper. Another visitor notes, "The sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, with varying levels of privacy between campgrounds."
Winter access: Old Forge Camping Resort stands out for year-round operations, especially winter accommodations. "Close to skiing. Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available," explains a winter visitor. "Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly at less developed sites. A North Lake visitor warns, "We were here in June and there was an invasion of biting flies. There were so many that you couldn't stand still for 5 seconds. I also think this is a general thing in this area not just at this campsite."
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequently visit campgrounds in the region. At Old Forge Camping Resort, one camper cautions, "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure."
Cell service limitations: Kayuta Lake Campground and surrounding areas offer varying connectivity. "They offer free wifi," notes one visitor, while North Lake has "no cell service" according to another review, requiring campers to plan communications accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Delta Lake State Park offers newly renovated play facilities. "They have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach. The concession stand at the beach will deliver to your camp site," shares one family camper.
Youth activities: Many campgrounds program special events for children. At Kayuta Lake, a visitor notes: "We were excited to build a boat out of cardboard and duct tape for the Redneck Yacht Club weekend," though some activities may be "geared toward seasonal campers."
Beach options: Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground features family-friendly swimming. "Cute swimming hole, although the water was brisk, as it's a dammed steam. Did not slow the kids down," writes one parent. Another visitor mentions "a nice playground for children" among the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Some campgrounds cannot support high electrical demand. At Singing Waters Campground, one RVer warns: "They do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have and we should not have our hot water on electric. Our power kept kicking off the entire weekend."
Site access challenges: Larger motorhomes face navigation difficulties at certain campgrounds. One 45-foot Class A owner reported: "The roads and turns are not wide enough even with the tow disconnected to make turns. Wide enough for travel trailers and 5th wheels but not a large class a."
Seasonal options: Some of the best places to camp near Boonville, New York close during winter months. Nicks Lake Campground operates "May 19 to October 9" while others like Kayuta Lake run "May 15 - Oct 15," requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
