Glamping options near Carthage, New York provide access to both the Adirondack wilderness and the 1000 Islands region. The area sits at the western edge of the Adirondack foothills, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet, creating diverse camping environments. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer averages around 78°F, making seasonal considerations important for luxury camping experiences.
What to do
Water activities at the reservoir: Stillwater Reservoir offers primitive glamping experiences with water-based recreation. "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self. Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there," notes one Stillwater Reservoir visitor.
Rock jumping and swimming: The St. Lawrence River provides unique swimming spots with natural features. A visitor to Kring Point State Park Campground states, "It has a little beach area and great rock cliffs to jump off and swim! The fishing is also awesome, my husband caught a pike and small mouth bass his first day!"
Boat rentals and water exploration: Many glamping locations offer watercraft rentals for exploring the St. Lawrence River and surrounding lakes. One camper at Swan Bay Resort remarks, "They offer boat, kayak, and paddle board rentals. They have 2 pools and a tiki bar on site. They looked beautiful but they were crowded."
What campers like
Private island experiences: Some glamping options provide complete seclusion on private islands. "I could go on and on about this campground. Go check it out!" enthuses a visitor to Southwick Beach State Park Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. One camper at Association Island notes, "Quite dark at night, but that was a bonus as we were able to see the Milky Way!"
River access from campsites: Many premium glamping sites feature direct water access. A Burnham Point State Park Campground visitor shares, "Beautiful view of the river. Easy access to swim in the water. Very clean bathrooms. Electric site with water. Boat launch. Plenty of tree to hang your hammock."
What you should know
Limited mobile connectivity: Many glamping sites in the region have poor cell service. A camper at Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates Inc describes it as "a classic summer youth sleep-away camp on Beaver Lake. Sleeping in cabins with bunk beds, swimming, canoes, and a high ropes course, gathering around the campfire to end the day."
Weather considerations: The St. Lawrence River area experiences significant wind, which affects water activities. One camper observes, "I was hoping to spend a bit of time on my paddleboard but soon realized it is very windy here and found very few windows to paddle. Our neighbor mentioned that he lost three awnings to the wind."
Seasonal availability: Most glamping accommodations operate from May through October. A visitor notes, "Very beautiful area. Pictures don't do it justice! We paralleled Cayuga Lake for some time and then took the Great Lakes Seaway Trail."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure activities: Some glamping sites offer structured activities beyond standard camping. Francis Lake offers "room for two or three tents, two fire circles and has an outhouse. Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water," according to a Francis Lake visitor.
Playground access: Several glamping resorts feature extensive play areas for children. One camper notes, "The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore."
Swimming beaches: Family-friendly water access varies by location. A visitor reports, "BEST beach in CNY-sandbar goes on forever-campsites roomy and well taken care of-bathrooms are meticulously cleaned."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many glamping areas have size limitations for larger rigs. A camper at 1000 Islands Campground shares, "We arrived on July 5th for 5 nights. Our original site was listed at 55', but there was no way our 43' camper would fit, nor make the tight turn into it. The owner quickly moved us to another site."
Wind protection: RVers should secure awnings and loose items due to strong riverside winds. "Down sides- lake front campsites are all on a slope- minimum flat space. Also- depending on day- EXTREMELY VERY WINDY AND COLD! But the view is beautiful," warns one camper.
Utility connections: Premium glamping sites often feature full hookups, but quality varies. A visitor notes, "All of their sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There are river views from just about every site which is nice."
