The Granville region sits at the eastern edge of New York near the Vermont border, featuring a landscape of rolling hills, slate quarries, and proximity to both the Adirondack Mountains and Green Mountains. Camping options span across both states with elevations ranging from 400-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during day with cooler 50-65°F nights, making proper sleeping gear essential.
What to do
Kayaking on Battenkill River: Camping On The Battenkill provides access to one of the region's top paddling spots. "Small, mostly wooded, quiet campground... Great river for tubing or hanging out in the swimming hole," notes Ripp D. The river offers gentle currents suitable for beginners and families.
Hiking near Dorset: Trails around Dorset RV Park connect to nearby natural attractions. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping," says Rachelle S. The area's moderate-grade trails range from 1-5 miles with minimal elevation gain.
Swimming in quarries: The region features several swimming quarries within 15-20 minute drives of campgrounds. "The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy," according to Rachelle S. regarding Dorset RV Park facilities, which provides convenient access to the Dorset Quarry.
Fishing opportunities: Emerald Lake State Park Campground offers both lake and stream fishing access. "On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking," writes Christina S. The lake is regularly stocked with trout and bass during summer months.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resorts consistently receives praise for site layout. "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors and provide lots of privacy," reports Nancy W.
Clean facilities: Granite Hill Lodge and Campground maintains exceptional standards. "Beautiful campground has beautiful facilities, larger sites, and beautiful views from their lookout. They even have flower beds sprinkled around that are well manicured," says Bret J. Their bathrooms and showers are cleaned multiple times daily.
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "We had a lean to site at this campground. Facilities were great. The lake was beautiful and rented boats and canoes. Swimming is also available," mentions Debbi B. about Emerald Lake State Park.
Pet exercise areas: Lake George RV Park offers dedicated pet facilities. "Best part- the 2 acre dog park with shaded seating for humans, bathrooms and a dog wash station," writes April L. The park maintains separate sections for large and small dogs.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Granville area operate May through October. "We camped here with our dog on a tent site in camping area B... Hiking trails are steep, so prepare for a good workout," notes Cynthia K. about her stay at Emerald Lake State Park. Spring camping often brings more mosquitoes.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds. "There is a bit of road noise from nearby highway but it quiets down for a good night's rest," explains Gary C. about Emerald Lake State Park Campground. Sites further from main roads provide quieter experiences.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for holiday weekends. "Larchmont is our favorite camp site. It is much larger than most sites, a short walk to the showers and a bit tucked away for privacy," advises Ming R. about Emerald Lake. Reservations open 11 months in advance at many locations.
Shower facilities: Camping On The Battenkill receives praise for maintenance. "Facilities were spotless. The owners are so nice and welcoming," shares Ripp D. However, at state parks like Emerald Lake, "Don't forget to bring quarters for the shower," reminds Cynthia K.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Some locations offer organized programs. "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the lake and trails for badges," explains Tammy E. about her Girl Scout group at Emerald Lake State Park.
Consider site location: At Lake George Escape Campground, site selection affects experience. "The tent we stayed in was gorgeous! We fit 5 of us comfortably. Linens, blankets and pillows were provided. There was a fire pit, BBQ, picnic table with umbrella, covered platform," shares Christina M. about their glamping experience.
Water-based amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. "We especially loved the trail around the lake - quiet with good swimming all around. The vista trail has an awesome view of the lake from across the road," notes Tara S. about Emerald Lake's features for families.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: At Moose Hillock, "Sites are huge. Plenty of room for our RV, and small tent. Private. Can't say enough about the pool," shares Julie E., though she notes costs increase with additional guests.
Hookup placement: Consider utilities when selecting sites. "The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric and the wifi at our site worked well," mentions Nancy W. about Dorset RV Park, where most sites offer full hookups.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties. "Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver. I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop," warns Katie E. about Dorset RV Park's loop 6-14, especially sites 8-12.
Scout
