The southern Adirondack foothills surrounding Esperance, New York sit at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet, creating diverse microclimates that attract campers from May through October. Winter camping options are limited, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. The region's mix of state forests and private lands provides varied camping terrain within 30 minutes of Esperance.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, visitors can access several hiking options. "There's no pond/lake here but there's several waterfalls nearby and Vromans Nose," notes Brian H. The park offers moderate trails suitable for most skill levels.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers water-based recreation with beach access. "The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in. Nice beach. Also a place for showers and a bathroom and small place for food and extras things you might need for camping," explains Patti M. The swimming area is staffed with lifeguards during summer months.
Quiet nature observation: A Promise to Gaia/Garden of One provides unique plant and wildlife viewing. "This property is rented to others to help maintain and expand native and pollinating species of plants," explains one visitor. The small 3-site property offers a different experience than larger campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: DevilDoc Campsites provides spacious, separated camping areas. "If your looking for a campsite thats private and clean this should be your top pick," writes Tanya D. The 25-acre property allows campers to spread out with minimal neighbor interaction.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms at Max V. Shaul State Park. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well-kept. The staff is friendly and helpful, and check the campground regularly so you can feel safe," says Darby R. The park recently built new bathhouses with family bathrooms.
Seasonal activities: Country Roads Campground offers programmed events throughout camping season. "They have special events in a pavilion near the RVs including bingo," notes William R. The campground maintains 118 sites with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: While most glamping close to Esperance, New York closes for winter, Frosty Acres has limited cold-weather options. "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," explains James S.
Varying levels of development: Campgrounds range from primitive to full-service. DevilDoc Campsites offers a more rustic experience: "Primitive dispersed camping is what you get, and EXACTLY what we wanted. We had the entire campground and the small Artesian fed pond to ourselves until our last night when other campers arrived," writes Jeff W.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for glamping options near Esperance. State parks like Caroga Lake Campground fill quickly during peak season. "We spent a relatively quiet long weekend here on loop F 97, which is a bit removed from the main campground," notes Danielle S.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Glimmerglass State Park provides family-friendly water recreation. "The beach is great and well kept," writes Erin G. The park maintains a designated swimming area with gradually sloping beach entry suitable for younger children.
Playgrounds and activities: Max V. Shaul offers play equipment for children. "There is a children's playground and pavilion. Firewood is available to purchase," mentions Darby R. The compact 30-site campground creates a contained environment where parents can easily monitor children.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience weekend revelry. "Caroga Lake Campground was incredibly noisy. A number of the sites had been closed for the camping season. The beach area offered a great view, but again, so noisy. If you have children, and you're not looking for quiet time, this could be the campground for you!" cautions Jessica W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Nickerson Park: Nickerson Park Campground offers varying RV sites. "Groups of sites sit on level terraces stepped down toward the river. The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking," reports Sarah S. RVers should request sites away from the main entrance for less traffic.
Hookup availability: Country Roads Campground provides full-service RV sites. "Mainly an RV ground, but they have about 10-15 great tent sites back beyond the RV area. There are water spigots near all the tent sites and they are nice and spread out," explains William R. The campground offers 30/50 amp electric service at most RV sites.
Accessibility concerns: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. "After seeing the site layout, it seems like accessibility could be an issue with high occupancy," notes Taylor H. about Nickerson Park. RVers with units over 30 feet should call ahead to confirm site suitability.
