Adirondack RV camping near Keene, New York requires navigating through mountain terrain with elevation changes between 1,000 and 4,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most facilities closing during winter months when roads become impassable due to snow and ice. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer nights dropping into the 40s even after warm days.
What to do
Paddling the Schroon River: Access the river directly from Lake George Schroon Valley Resort, where campers can enjoy tubing and kayaking. "Absolutely one of the best campgrounds in NY, especially if you value nature, quiet, and simplicity. From tubing down the Schroon River to visiting local eateries in Bolton Landing, there is simply nothing better than a stay here," reports one visitor.
Hiking nearby trails: Set up base camp at Thornbush Acres RV Park for day trips to surrounding trails. A camper notes, "Close to Lakes to Paddle, Store and Gas not far. Camp is quite more for Adults, no playgrounds or things for kids to do. Great for Day trips around the area."
Winter activities: While most campgrounds close seasonally, the area offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing from November through April. Whiteface Mountain provides downhill skiing with 3,430 feet of vertical drop, the greatest in eastern North America.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate waterfront access. At Davey Falls ADK, one visitor enjoyed the "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails. Perfect location to explore eastern Adk."
Pool amenities: When summer temperatures climb, on-site pools provide relief. A Iroquois Campground & RV Park camper shared: "Nice campground near Plattsburgh. Staff very friendly, under new ownership, lots of seasonal sites and folks, fun activities, campers friendly and welcoming, roadway a little rough but overall ok, nice large pond, reasonable price."
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "Only fifteen minutes to Bolton Landing shops and restaurants," noted one Lake George Schroon Valley Resort visitor, while acknowledging "the noise from the Northway within earshot."
What you should know
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites in the Adirondack region require leveling equipment. Bring adequate blocking materials and leveling tools.
Seasonal operation: Most facilities operate only during warmer months. Brookwood RV Resort's season runs "May 15-October 15" while Thornbush Acres operates "Mid-May thru Mid-Oct."
Cell service variability: Connectivity depends on location and carrier. At Brookwood RV Resort, one camper noted, "We got crappy cell service, and the camp wifi was spotty- but hey, we were camping, right?"
Amenity limitations: Some parks advertise amenities that may not be fully operational. Check current conditions before booking, as one camper observed at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks: "The mini golf course was in disrepair, the arcade was empty of machines, and the activities touted on their website were nonexistent."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground amenities: Not all parks cater to children. "This ground was very quiet. Mostly seasonal sites with only one overnight site that I saw. No tents allowed," observed a visitor at Shady Oaks Camping Resort. Another camper added: "There is also a small pool, play ground and a picnic table and hook ups from the sites."
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common. Bring layered clothing and rain gear even during summer months.
Plan for limited entertainment options: Some parks have few organized activities. A Thornbush Acres visitor noted the park is "quite more for Adults, no playgrounds or things for kids to do," making it better suited for families planning day trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Request specific sites based on your rig's dimensions. At Camp Whiteface Mountain, one camper praised its location: "Nestled in the trees by the Ausable River its a convenient place to explore the area. 20 minutes from downtown Lake Placid at the base of Whiteface mountain."
Route planning essential: Map routes carefully, avoiding steep mountain passes when possible. The approach to some parks involves elevation changes that challenge larger motorhomes.
Off-peak advantages: Consider camping mid-week when occupancy is lower. One Brookwood RV Resort visitor noted: "I was there mid-week and most of the short-term sites were empty."
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