Camping spots near Esperance, New York range from state parks to private facilities, with most located within a 30-mile radius of town. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,400 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the camping season. Winter closures typically extend from late October through April, with higher elevation sites experiencing frost earlier in fall and later in spring than valley locations.
What to do
Kayaking and boating access: Thompson's Lake Campground offers water recreation opportunities with boat rentals and a swimming beach. "They have a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals, a nature center next door you can walk too," notes Sabrina H. about the Thompson's Lake Campground.
Hiking nearby: Several trails surround camping areas, particularly at North-South Lake Campground. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot," writes Brittany W. about North-South Lake Campground, which connects to the Catskill Escarpment trail system.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatching opportunities exist at several campgrounds, particularly Schodack Island State Park. One reviewer noted, "Stopped for one night on way from New England to Finger Lakes region... Best part was hiking out to a couple of different blinds to look for birds. Did see a juv eagle."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site spacing as a positive feature. "The sites are a great size for accommodating two tents and have many people gather at meals," writes Leah B. about Glimmerglass State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Modern bathroom facilities receive positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. Clayton H. notes about Thompson's Lake: "Very friendly and helpful staff, well maintained property. Some of the lakeside sites have private foot trails down to the water which was very nice."
Kid-friendly features: Several campgrounds offer dedicated areas for children. "This campground has always been my go to. Now that I have kids, I appreciate the playground area near the beach more. All public areas including the bathrooms are very clean," reports Dana O. about Thompson's Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate only from May through October. Frosty Acres Campground offers winter camping options for the adventurous. According to James S., "We stayed from April until October then decided to stay over winter. They have a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires."
Reservation requirements: Book early for popular sites, especially waterfront locations at Thompson's Lake and Schodack Island State Park Campground. "The state did an excellent job designing sites with dense foliage as sound and site barriers creating good privacy for campers," notes Kevin C.
Road access: Some campgrounds feature challenging access roads. At Schodack Island, one camper noted, "The roads in are definitely patched and bumpy, but once your in the loop things are smooth!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Thompson's Lake and North-South Lake Campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. One Thompson's Lake visitor mentioned, "We had an amazing time! The workers there were friendly and the campers were respectable and kind. Hiking was near by and also the beach."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming beaches with varying amenities. Rachel G. writes about North-South Lake Campground: "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. Perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront."
Nature programs: Some state parks offer educational activities for children. At Darby R. notes about Max V. Shaul, "I love this little place! No hook ups, but there are water spigots nearby. There is a children's playground and pavilion. Firewood is available to purchase."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds, with some offering 30/50 amp connections. At Hide-A-Way Campsites, Jackie M. mentions, "Gravel unlevel pad full hookups," while noting the site is "Well maintained clean campground. Friendly attendants guided us to site and directed in spot."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities, though some smaller parks require driving to another location. For example, DevilDoc Campsites has one noted limitation: "only con was that they were limited on water so could not dump tanks during our stay, had to travel to another place, a little hassle."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring leveling blocks. At Arrowhead Marina & RV Park, Coffee&Camping T. reports it as "Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier. Friendly people. A perfect campground."
