Camping opportunities near Clemons, New York span across both New York and Vermont borders, positioned in the southern Adirondacks where elevations range from 100 to 500 feet above sea level. Weather patterns shift dramatically throughout the camping season, with July temperatures averaging 80°F during the day and dropping to 60°F at night, while May and October often see frost. Seasonal variations affect both water levels and site availability across the region.
What to do
Kayak between ponds: At Putnam Pond Campground, paddle between connected waterways for an all-day adventure. "We spent a day on the ponds (Putnam & North Pond are connected) and it is beautiful. The water is cool, clean and beautiful," notes Michael G. The campground offers $20 daily boat rentals if you don't bring your own equipment.
Explore mining history: Follow the red trail from Putnam Pond to discover abandoned graphite mines. "Take the yellow trail through the sites to the Rock pond lean-to... Take the red trail around and you will come across the old graphite mine, which was cool to look at its remnants," reports Michael G., who adds that visitors with strong flashlights might venture slightly into the shaft.
Paddle with privacy: Narrow Island Group on Lake George offers island camping with abundant water access. "We ate fresh fish everyday. Great kayaking & hiking," says Rebecca E., though she warns about weekend boat traffic noise that can detract from the isolated feeling.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resort features uncommonly spacious sites. "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors," reports Nancy W., who appreciated the site privacy unusual for the Lake George region.
Remote camping options: Many visitors value Putnam Pond's more isolated sites. "We have stayed here at the remote sites several times. Site R005 is our favorite - a private island all to yourself! R006 is good too but a little further to row out to," notes Tara F., highlighting the campground's boat-access-only sites.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance stands out at Half Moon Pond State Park. "The park is small, quiet and very well cared for. Restrooms are modern and clean," says Cynthia K., who also mentions the convenience of kiln-dried firewood kept in a shed and the three-sided concrete block fire pits that work well even in wet conditions.
What you should know
Off-grid considerations: Cell service varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Moose Hillock, "If you want internet, bring your own because there is none at campsites. I was able to use my Verizon hotspot which worked fine," advises Nancy W. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect," according to Dave S.
Reservation timing: The best spots book quickly, especially waterfront and island sites. For Narrow Island Group, Rebecca E. advises, "Book 9 months in advance & good luck. Last minute cancellations are a common occurrence though."
Site selection strategies: At Hearthstone Point Campground, noise can be an issue from nearby roads. "One downside is that our camp site was close to the road so we did hear cars driving by at night, so I would advise to get a spot away from the road," suggests Sue T., who switched sites after her first night.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming areas: Family-friendly beaches vary in quality between campgrounds. At Half Moon Pond, "The beach is small, but it is never busy," says Susan E., noting that the pond is clean and swimmable with excellent kayaking opportunities.
Affordable alternatives: Camping costs less than regional hotels, even at premium sites. "At $96/night it is pricey, but still less expensive than staying at a hotel resort," says Sheri S. about Moose Hillock, which offers planned activities like scavenger hunts and movie nights at their pool during summer months.
Playground access: Bomoseen State Park offers excellent play facilities alongside the water. "The play area has a nice set up," notes Erica H., while Cristy-Ann L. who camped with seven children adds, "our spot was close to the beach which had a fantastic park it was clean not busy at all."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Angled sites with wide roads make backing in easier at certain campgrounds. At Moose Hillock, Nancy W. shares that "The angled sites and wide roads make backing in very easy," though she warns about the significant price increases during holiday weekends.
Hookup placement: Utility connections vary in positioning and quality. At Moose Hillock, sites are designed for convenience: "The water/electric was positioned perfectly that we could have gotten away with using 5 foot connections," notes Debbie W.
Seasonal price variations: Costs increase substantially during peak periods. Nancy W. reports that rates at Moose Hillock "was $66/night during the first part of our stay but then jumped up to in-season rates that were $99/night plus $20/night because it was a holiday weekend."
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