The northern Adirondack region around Hillsdale sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level, providing cooler summer temperatures than nearby urban areas. Camping options range from state-operated facilities with basic amenities to full-service private resorts with extensive recreational activities. Most campgrounds in this region close by mid-October due to seasonal temperature drops below freezing at night.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Lake George area offers numerous trails within 10-15 minutes of camping areas. "Nearby is good hiking in Adirondack Park where trails range from easy to difficult and have some great views of the lake and surrounding area. The Inman Pond Trail (about 15 minutes north of the campground) is a nice easy walk in the woods which takes you to a pretty pond good for fishing," notes a camper from Moose Hillock Camping Resorts.
Swimming in natural settings: Natural swimming areas provide alternatives to pool facilities. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, "There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby. Swimmers can swim out the a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing."
Visit neighboring towns: Explore local villages for dining and shopping. A visitor at Emerald Lake State Park Campground shared: "Local area: Because of the amount of rain, we decided to explore Manchester and bought some gear at Mountain Goat. We ate at the Road Runner which was fantastic. Our hike was about 10 minutes out from Manchester at Lyle Falls."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural barriers. A camper at Moose Hillock noted, "Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors and provide lots of privacy. Pretty much all the sites are the same except that a dozen or so don't have as many large trees around them and are pretty open."
Waterfront access: Direct lake access enhances the camping experience. "I was lucky to book a site (#68) on the water. Beautiful views and morning sun. There is a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline," reports a visitor at Rogers Rock Campground.
Nearby biking opportunities: Several campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. According to a King Phillip's Campground visitor: "I'm rating this campground as a 5/5 because of the location. We road the bike path each day to and from Lake George. It was downhill on the way there and a little bit of an uphill battle on the way back but totally worth it! Bring your bikes!!"
What you should know
Seasonal price variations: Rates can increase significantly during peak periods. "This campground does come with a high price tag. It was $66/night during the first part of our stay but them jumped up to in-season rates that were $99/night plus $20/night because it was a holiday weekend," reports a Moose Hillock camper.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. A visitor at Lake Bomoseen KOA noted, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect. The lake is swampy at this end so not much to look at."
Site terrain challenges: Not all sites are level or equally accessible. One camper at Lake Bomoseen KOA shared: "Tented here for long weekend... no wireless really, which disappointed. Few flat, even spots but we liked #136."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated pet amenities. A visitor to Lake George RV Park stated: "Best part- the 2 acre dog park with shaded seating for humans, bathrooms and a dog wash station."
Consider campground entertainment options: Facilities vary widely in their family programming. "This is a total family playground and if that is what you are looking for, this is your place! There are tons of activities, lots of families and 'stuff' going on all the time," explains a camper at Lake George Escape Campground.
Choose sites strategically for glamping in Hillsdale: Site selection affects family comfort. A Lake George Escape reviewer advised, "Each site is gigantic and well thought out and can easily say there is not a bad site in the place. Best sites are along the outer perimeter as they provide more privacy."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. A King Phillip's Campground visitor noted: "The site pad was packed gravel and slightly unlevel. We have a 27 foot camper and was slightly difficult to maneuver into the site. If your camper sits low, chances are it will hit the road on some of the inclines."
Site selection for larger units: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs equally well. "Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs," advises a Moreau Lake State Park camper. "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV."
Hookup variations: Check specific utility arrangements when glamping near Hillsdale. "The sewer hook-up was very weird and at an angle that was hard to secure my hose to. Instead of flowing straight down into the ground, it was at 45 degrees and took a big rock for me to secure it," reported a King Phillip's visitor.
