Camping options in Potsdam, New York and surrounding areas operate primarily from May through early October when temperatures range from 45°F to 75°F during camping season. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 500-1,500 feet, with those in the Adirondack foothills offering different terrain than sites along the St. Lawrence River. Northern New York winter conditions typically make campground access difficult from November through April.
What to do
Water exploration options: Cranberry Lake Campground offers excellent water access with many sites directly on the lake. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking. While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campground itself, they are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" noted one visitor.
Hiking trail networks: Several campgrounds near Potsdam connect to established trail systems. At Higley Flow State Park Campground, trails accommodate multiple activities year-round. "I also cross country ski in the winter and the trails are fabulous!" shared one regular camper.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer prime opportunities for spotting local wildlife, particularly loons. At Riverside Campground, visitors appreciate "beautiful river views" while at Higley Flow, one camper reported: "I came across the largest and most beautiful sounding loon early in the morning...perfect before we had to pack it up and leave."
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Many sites at campgrounds near Potsdam offer direct water access, though availability varies. At Eel Weir State Park Campground, "There are 2 sites immediately on the river but many others with unobstructed views," according to one visitor who appreciated the setting.
Family-focused activities: Some campgrounds coordinate regular events for younger campers. At Pine Ridge Park Campsite, "The whole time they are open they have activities planned for the kids all summer long. The staff is always smiling and welcoming you into the campground."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality rates highly across several campgrounds. "The bathrooms are kept tidy, the shower house is classic and clean, and there is an extensive recycling facility," reported one visitor to Cranberry Lake Campground, while another noted that Higley Flow features "brand new bathhouses."
What you should know
Site selection matters: When booking, research specific site characteristics, especially for RVs. At Fish Creek Pond Campground, "The sites are varied as to size and desirability, not all are level for trailers and rv's, so do some research ahead of time to find the spot that is perfect for you."
Proximity considerations: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Coles Creek noted: "Sites are tightly packed and a lot is in open areas where you're camping with all of your neighbors, good or bad. Personal preference but, I prefer seclusion, separation, quiet."
Water level changes: Natural and human-controlled water fluctuations affect some campgrounds. At Higley Flow, one camper observed: "Since this river has many dams and is used for hydro power the water level can go up and down 2-3 feet from one day to the next. It didn't affect our kayaking fun, swimming or fishing."
Tips for camping with families
Multi-use recreation: Families appreciate campgrounds with diverse activity options for children. Higley Flow State Park offers "great playground for the kids, hiking trails and more," according to one regular visitor.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds provide secure environments for children. At Pine Ridge Park Campsite, "Security is offered which makes parents feel safe for their kids to be running around. Campers help each other out and always a good time."
Water safety planning: Shallow water access points benefit families with young children. At Rollins Pond Campground, "most of the sites are lakefront" with varying water access depths, making it important to select sites appropriate for your family's swimming abilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites are limited at some campgrounds. At Higley Flow, one RVer noted: "First booked a site without electric. YES THEY HAVE 3 loops with electric. While driving there I took a peak online to find that they had one site that had come available with electric."
Dump station access: Multi-lane dump stations help manage peak usage times. At Fish Creek Pond, one RVer shared: "No w/e/s hookups at any of the sites, but there is a three-lane dump station for your convenience if you are in an RV."
Cell service planning: Coverage varies significantly across the region and international border proximity affects service. At Barnhart Island, one camper warned: "I have read that Verizon has good service there but my AT&T service was not good and kept bouncing off Canadian towers so be careful!"
