Lake Clear, New York offers diverse RV camping options within the western Adirondack region at elevations ranging from 1,600-1,900 feet. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 0°F, while summer daytime highs typically reach 70-80°F. The mountainous terrain creates variable weather patterns that can change quickly, especially during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking access from campgrounds: At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, campers can access trails directly from the property. "Behind the 100-Acre section are trails that lead to Whiteface Mountain so you don't have to get in the car to start a hike," notes Nancy W.
Water activities: The AuSable River provides swimming opportunities near several campgrounds. Laura T. discovered: "Walk to the back of the campground to the Ausable river, go down the path about 500 ft. there is an awesome swimming hole."
Local attractions: When staying at RV sites near Lake Clear, New York, visitors can explore nearby towns. Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks is "Close to beautiful hiking, lake activities and rail bikes. We can't wait to come back!" according to Amanda K.
What campers like
Quiet environments: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at RV campgrounds around Lake Clear. At Thornbush Acres RV Park, visitors enjoy a tranquil setting. "Mostly seasonal nice and quiet. Basic sites with amenities. Very roomy and spacious," writes Paul G.
Kid-friendly amenities: Family activities are available at several parks. Nicole S. shares about Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA: "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade, hiking trails and a common area with some games."
Natural water features: Waterfront camping spots rank highly among visitor preferences for motorhome sites near Lake Clear. At Babbling Brook RV Park, Ioan P. describes it as "a paradise. Located near river."
What you should know
Campground layout variations: Some parks have distinct camping areas with different characteristics. Nancy W. notes about the Lake Placid KOA: "There are two distinct sections of this campground—the 'Resort' section and the '100-Acre Woods' section... This section has tall shad trees and much more space between sites than the resort area."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Iroquois Campground & RV Park operates "May 1 to Oct 1," while Thornbush Acres runs from "Mid-May thru Mid-Oct."
Facility maintenance issues: Be prepared for potential maintenance challenges. At Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, Steve A. reported: "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
Pet policies: Many parks welcome four-legged family members. Krys M. reports about Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks: "Husband and I took a trip with all 3 pups and I couldn't even tell you who had more fun!! The doggos and husband absolutely loved being able to walk the beautiful trail in the cooler weather, especially the husky."
Kid-specific activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. Gayle S. shares: "This is such a nice campground and a great experience! The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!!"
Safety considerations: Check pool supervision and playground conditions. One visitor at Shady Oaks Camping Resort noted: "There is also a small pool, play ground and a picnic table and hook ups from the sites."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Be prepared to make adjustments at some campgrounds. As one camper at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA noted: "We stayed in a full hook-up site that was plenty long enough for our 45' RV and tow car."
Road conditions: Many parks have narrow access roads. Nancy W. mentioned: "One thing we noticed was that there were lots of tree limbs that needed to be trimmed. Maneuvering through the park was pretty tight for us and we had to take it really slow."
Hookup specifications: Check for specific hookup types before booking. Shady Oaks Camping Resort offers "30-amp hookups" but lacks "50-amp service" which larger motorhomes may require.
