Lake Champlain camping offers access to both New York and Vermont shorelines, with the Adirondacks to the west and Green Mountains to the east. The region receives moderate rainfall in summer months with temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Most campgrounds near Champlain, New York operate seasonally from May through October, with limited options for extended season camping.
What to do
Lakeside fishing: Multiple rv sites near Champlain, New York provide direct lake access for anglers. At Babbling Brook RV Park, riverfront locations make for convenient fishing. "This place is a paradise. Located near river," notes one camper.
Golf on-site: Apple Island Resort offers a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green for campers. "My husband enjoyed his time at the golf course," reports a visitor who appreciated the recreational options available without leaving the campground.
Winter sports preparation: Camping near Smugglers Notch RV Village positions visitors for easy access to nearby ski areas. "Very close to Smuggs and only a short but beautiful ride to Stowe," writes one camper, making this a strategic base camp for early winter preparations.
What campers like
Lake views: Prime waterfront RV accommodations near Champlain provide direct sightlines to the water. "The views of lake Champlain are amazing," according to a camper at Apple Island Resort, where terraced sites maximize visibility.
Pool access: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. At Smugglers Notch RV Village, the comfortable amenities earned praise: "Will is a wonderful host and owner of this hidden gem. We happened upon it when we were looking for a new place to relax. And relax we did."
Local farm products: The agricultural surroundings provide fresh produce options. "There was a farm stand on the main road we got the best lettuce, strawberries and cilantro from the stand," noted one visitor, highlighting the seasonal bounty available near camping facilities.
What you should know
Site configurations: Some RV campgrounds near Champlain use nose-in parking arrangements rather than traditional back-in sites. "Most of the waterfront sites are nose-in and suited well for motorhomes," explains a visitor to Apple Island Resort, noting a configuration that works differently for towables.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet connectivity varies significantly by location. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, one 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."
Elevation challenges: Some campgrounds feature terraced layouts to manage hillside locations. A camper noted about Apple Island: "The rows are terraced and they do offset sites on each row which is good," though this can create partially obstructed views at some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Family-friendly amenities differ between facilities. At Plattsburgh RV Park, visitors appreciate the recreational options: "This Park was very nice, it has a real homey feel with mini golf, community hall, and pool."
Multi-generational appeal: Several parks accommodate extended family gatherings with varied activities. "I went with my mom dad and sister. My sister was so happy there was power, she never leaves home without her blow dryer. It was the most fun, fire cooked meals, and stories," shares a Plattsburgh RV Park visitor.
Seasonal activity planning: School-year camping offers different experiences than summer stays. "Visit this campground in the fall and experience quintessential Vermont in all its glory," recommends one Apple Island camper about autumn visits when fewer families compete for amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV parks in the Champlain region vary significantly in site size and separation. At Shady Oaks Camping Resort, a visitor noted: "The families in the seasonal sites were very friendly. There is also a small pool, play ground and a picnic table and hook ups from the sites. Overnight sites are grassy with fire rings."
Hookup positioning: Utility connections may require specific parking orientations. A visitor to Apple Island mentioned: "The hook-ups at our site were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.'"
Rental options: For those unable to bring their own RV, some campgrounds offer alternatives. Iroquois Campground & RV Park provides cabins alongside traditional RV sites, with one visitor commenting: "Nice campground near Plattsburgh. Sites somewhat small and tight but there are some larger sites. Staff very friendly, under new ownership."
