The Adirondack region surrounding Childwold, New York sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with dramatic seasonal temperature fluctuations between 5°F in winter and 75°F in summer. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area with stronger coverage limited to larger towns. Most campgrounds in the region operate primarily from May through October with limited winter camping options at select facilities.
What to do
Kayaking on Cranberry Lake: The expansive 7,000-acre lake offers calm paddling conditions with minimal motorboat traffic. Cranberry Lake Campground provides direct water access for launching. "The lake is beautiful. We weren't set up for it but if you can plan for the sunset view I think it's worth rescheduling your trip for the right site," notes a camper.
Swimming in natural waterways: Several campgrounds feature access to swimming areas along rivers and lakes throughout the region. A camper at Singing Waters RV Park observed, "The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water."
Winter activities: Winter recreation opportunities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. "Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available," reports a visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort.
What campers like
Access to hiking trails: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to hiking networks without requiring driving. A Wilmington Notch visitor reported, "There is an accessible trail from the back of the campground to an amazing waterfall on the west branch of the Ausable River and plenty of spots to trout fish/swim."
Waterfront camping options: Riverfront and lakefront sites provide scenic views and water access. At HTR Adirondacks, one camper described their experience: "I selected 30 amp interior full hook up back in site but they gave me an upgrade to a waterfront site. The view took my breath away."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife including bears, deer, and numerous bird species. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," warns a visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort.
What you should know
Limited utilities at some sites: Electric service capacity varies widely between rv parks near Childwold, NY. One camper at Singing Waters noted, "We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have and we should not have our hot water on electric."
Road conditions and access challenges: Many campgrounds feature narrow access roads with tight turns. "We damaged our rig getting to our lot. The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns," reported a visitor to HTR Adirondacks.
Water quality considerations: Water treatment differs between parks. A camper at Wilmington Notch Campground observed, "Luckily I had a water bandit, as the water spigot does not have threads for a hose."
Tips for camping with families
River recreation opportunities: Several campgrounds offer safe wading and tubing areas for children. "A mile down the road is flume falls trails, which leads to a great swimming hole and various height choice cliff jumping," notes a Wilmington Notch Campground visitor.
Playground availability: Many larger campgrounds provide playground facilities. A visitor to Camp Whiteface Mountain stated, "If you want a nice camping spot for exploring the Adirondacks this is it. Nestled in the trees by the Ausable River its a convenient place to explore the area."
Proximity to water attractions: Several campgrounds offer shuttle service to nearby water parks. "There is a bus from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking," mentions an Old Forge Camping Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on size requirements and hookup capacity. A visitor to Thornbush Acres RV Park reported, "Full hook ups and pull thru sites. Not very private you are close to your neighbors. Great for Day trips around the area."
Seasonal RV camper options: Several Childwold area RV parks cater to seasonal campers with extended-stay sites. "Mostly seasonal nice and quiet. Basic sites with amenities. Very roomy and spacious," notes a visitor to Thornbush Acres RV Park.
Low branch awareness: Overhanging branches pose hazards for taller RVs throughout the region. Multiple reviewers caution about low-hanging limbs requiring careful navigation, particularly for class A motorhomes exceeding 35 feet.
