Caroga Lake sits at 1,471 feet elevation in the southern Adirondack region, creating a distinct camping season from May through mid-October. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, with significant snowfall limiting RV camping options to the warmer months. Summer nights often cool into the 50s even when days reach the 70s and 80s, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Archery activities: At Lake George Escape Campground, visitors can practice their aim. "Archery was awesome!" notes Kimberly S., while another camper mentions they offer "kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, floating, bike riding, playgrounds or weekly planned events."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature multiple water areas beyond just the main lake. At Lake George RV Park, guests have access to "two pools, indoor pool, and a new water park with zero-entry pool." The water amenities are well-maintained, with one visitor noting the "pools and hot tubs are extremely clean."
River tubing: For those seeking moving water recreation, the Schroon River provides opportunities at certain campgrounds. At HTR Adirondacks (formerly Singing Waters), one family reported their teenage boys "spent almost every waking moment in the water, riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV parks around Caroga Lake offer roomy campsites. At Alpine Lake RV Resort, "the RV sites were spacious and clean, with full hookups and easy access." The resort maintains these large sites despite having hundreds of campsites total.
Pet amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to four-legged visitors. Lake George RV Park features "the best dog park I ever saw," according to Michael C., who was impressed that "the grounds looked more like a hotel resort than campground." The dog park includes shaded seating for humans, bathrooms, and a dog wash station.
Entertainment options: Many parks provide organized activities and facilities beyond standard camping. At Ledgeview Village RV Park, visitors appreciate the "pool, playgrounds, large rec room." One camper noted their "son had a great time" with these amenities, though mentioned "the only downfall was the sandy lots."
What you should know
Site selection matters: The quality and location of sites can vary significantly within the same campground. At Lake George Escape, one camper observed, "Some campsites are pretty small and would not fit large RVs. Roads in the park are confusing because none are parallel or perpendicular."
Road noise considerations: Some otherwise peaceful campgrounds experience highway sounds. Lauren mentioned at Ledgeview Village that "the only downside was the road noise, our site was adjacent to the road and you could hear the loud noise of the tractor trailers all night." This primarily affects tent campers and sites nearest to main roads.
Wi-Fi availability: Connection quality varies widely between properties. Arrowhead Marina & RV Park receives high marks for its riverside location and amenities, with one camper noting it's "well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier."
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: When traveling with children, choose campgrounds with multiple recreation options. One family at Lake George Escape appreciated that "there are SO MANY activities in this area," adding their recommendation for specific age groups: "teen nights, family days and everything in between."
Swimming areas: Look for properties with dedicated swimming facilities for children. Alpine Lake RV Resort provides "peaceful surroundings and stunning natural scenery," according to one visitor, who observed "plenty of activities to keep me entertained—from relaxing by the lake and enjoying the hiking trails to spending time at the recreation areas."
Playground access: HTR Adirondacks offers "a nice play area for the kids" along with a beach area. One satisfied visitor reported, "Our whole plan was to camp there and spend 1½ days at the water safari... that never happened. The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV campers should come prepared with leveling equipment. Near Caroga Lake, Michelle D. mentioned about one campground, "Sites are decent size, but be sure to bring boards to level your trailer for some sites are quite uneven!"
Seasonal considerations: The camping window is limited in the Adirondacks. Pine Lake Campground and RV Park near Caroga Lake provides "electric hookups and sanitary dump facilities," and offers "a reasonably priced way to show your family a great camping experience!" with "great swimming locations at many of the sites."
Site size verification: When reserving a spot for larger RVs, verify measurements. At Thornbush Acres RV Park, about an hour north of Caroga Lake, sites are "very roomy and spacious" according to Paul G., while Debbie W. notes it's "not very private you are close to your neighbors" but offers "full hook ups and pull thru sites."
