Camping options surround Esperance, New York in the eastern Mohawk Valley where the terrain transitions between the Catskills and southern Adirondacks. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to upstate New York's cold winters, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night.
What to do
Boating opportunities: Alpine Lake RV Resort provides waterfront sites where guests can enjoy various water activities. "Bring your boats and SUP boards for lots of fun! Staff is friendly and helpful. Grounds are large and well maintained. Hikers and water enthusiasts will live this place," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: The region offers numerous hiking options within a 30-minute drive. "They have movies, dances and even some kayaking, padding, etc. They have these dinos scattered throughout the park and also a few pools. So much to do on the camp ground," writes a visitor about Alpine Lake RV Resort.
Swimming options: Thompson's Lake Campground offers a beach area with designated swimming areas. "They have a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals, a nature center next door you can walk too and the bathrooms are refurbished," shares a camper who visits annually.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Country Roads Campground receives praise for its site layout. "Beautiful campground. Stayed in The Pines section. Spacious sites. Super friendly and helpful staff," notes one reviewer. The tent sites are particularly appreciated for their privacy.
Riverside locations: Arrowhead Marina & RV Park sits along the Mohawk River, providing scenic camping. "Well maintained, located on the Mohawk River. Shady, grassy areas. Boat launch and pier. Friendly people. A perfect campground," shares a camper.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms. At Country Roads, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV camping near Esperance closes by mid-October. "Alpine Lake RV Resort provides full hookup sites from May 6 to October 10," while Arrowhead Marina operates from "May 15 to Oct 15."
Site navigation challenges: Some parks have limitations for larger vehicles. "Our site was back-in and had plenty of space. There's a lot of green space in this campground and it's right on the river," notes a visitor to Arrowhead Marina.
Reservation requirements: Max V. Shaul State Park requires advance bookings during peak season. "The Max V. Shaul State Park is small and quiet - only 30 sites here, which are large, flat and sited well apart from each other."
Water access varies: Lakefront sites at some campgrounds provide direct water access. "Some of the lakeside sites have private foot trails down to the water which was very nice," notes a Thompson's Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Thompson's Lake offers recreation areas specifically 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."
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds are near nature centers. "I visit here every summer with friends. They have a great beach with swimming, kayak and boat rentals, a nature center next door you can walk too," shares a Thompson's Lake visitor.
Event schedules: Check for family programming during your stay. At Country Roads Campground, "They have special events in a pavilion near the RVs including bingo."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV camping near Esperance, New York, consider site location carefully. At Lee's Park Campground, "We had a fellow camper who needed medical attention on his hand. They had some basic first aid on hand to help the situation, which we really appreciated."
Arrival timing: When possible, arrive early to secure preferred spots, especially at popular parks. "With little to find online about what the actual inside of the campground looks like and some negative reviews I was skeptical but reassured by some of the good ones."
Water and electric hookups: Most RV parks offer 30 or 50-amp service, but confirm before booking. 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."
