The Adirondack region surrounding Diamond Point, New York sits at elevations between 300-400 feet, creating a temperate camping climate with cool evening temperatures even during summer months. Campsites in this area often feature old-growth forests with rocky terrain and access to both small lakes and larger waterways. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from May through early October due to the region's snowy winters.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Luzerne Campground offers specialized access for equestrians. As one camper notes, "The only campground in all of New York that acquires to house back riders. There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!" Riders can access numerous woodland trails directly from their sites.
Kayaking and fishing: Multiple lakes provide water recreation opportunities. At Luzerne Campground, "Great little lake for kayaking and fishing. Minutes away from Lake George village," according to Dan H. The smaller lakes offer calmer waters ideal for beginners and families.
Hiking trails: The region features extensive trail networks of varying difficulty. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, you'll find "Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks, I've visited," as Michi P. reports. Many trails connect between campgrounds, allowing for extended day hikes.
Seasonal water activities: Swimming areas operate during summer months with different regulations. Robert L. mentions that Moreau Lake has a "Nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between campsites. At Moreau Lake, "Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," according to Nancy W.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Murphy Lake Leanto, campers appreciate the maintained trails despite being in remote wilderness: "The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest. Well marked with blue Trail Blazers, the trail snakes its way through the wilderness."
Proximity to attractions: The central location makes these campgrounds convenient bases. Troy H. notes about Luzerne, "Small state run campground in the SE Adirondacks- plenty to do: tubing and white water rafting (spring) great hikes, horseback riding, canoe/kayaking, zip lines, great local food and breweries in the area."
Technical terrain for mountain biking: Several trails offer challenging rides. Tony F. describes the Murphy Bennett Trails as "a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls. The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest."
What you should know
Limited services at remote sites: More isolated campgrounds have fewer amenities. At Murphy Lake Leanto, "you have to earn it on foot, bike or other. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks," explains Tony F., noting you must come prepared.
Bear safety required: Wildlife is active in the area. At Branbury State Park Campground, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" warns Nicole E.
Seasonal crowds: Location affects visitor numbers. Robert L. explains that Moreau Lake "draws large crowds of downstate tourists, not itself a wholey bad thing but during the summer season I wouldn't go here expecting to have the park to yourself."
Temperature fluctuations: Weather changes rapidly, even in summer. Stephen T. notes about Branbury, "even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation areas. Lisa S. says Branbury "has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available."
Bike-friendly routes: Several campgrounds connect to family-appropriate cycling paths. At Frontier Town Campground, Charles K. notes it's "a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling."
Nature programs: Look for educational activities for children. At Branbury, "Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," reports J L.
Consistent campsites: Some families return to favorite sites year after year. At Luzerne, one camper shares, "we have been going to this campground for almost 15 years and my husband went here as a kid with his family. We always get the same site, for 15 years. My daughter loves it here."
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Some equestrian campgrounds have unique layouts. At Frontier Town, Butch K. found "site 43, it was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen. My 75 foot starling cable did not even reach all the way back out to the road."
Electric hookup locations: Pay attention to utility pedestal placement. Sheri C. notes about Frontier Town, "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get you camper into your site correct. It is definitely catered to the equestrian part of the camping."
Navigating tree coverage: Wooded sites require careful maneuvering. At Moreau Lake, Nancy W. explains, "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV."
Generator policies: Rules vary between campgrounds. Nancy W. notes, "Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours."