114 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping in the Lowville area of New York encompasses a range of options from developed state parks to more rustic facilities. Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground offers established sites with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables, making it suitable for both tent and RV camping. Cedar Creek Cabin provides cabin accommodations alongside RV sites with basic amenities including drinking water and picnic tables. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate various camping styles, with most established sites offering fire rings and access to drinking water.
Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping experiences in this part of New York, with most campgrounds operating from May through early September. Whetstone Gulf State Park specifically operates from May 20 to September 5, limiting off-season opportunities. Road access to many sites requires careful navigation, particularly for larger vehicles. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better connectivity in towns like Lowville and more limited coverage in remote camping areas. A review noted that "Stillwater Reservoir offers dispersed camping with no hookups or amenities, but provides free camping with beautiful views and excellent fishing opportunities."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with several campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. Whitaker Falls Park receives high ratings from visitors who appreciate its combination of natural beauty and basic amenities like drinking water, showers, and toilets. Campers report that privacy levels vary considerably between sites, with some offering secluded woodland settings while others have more open layouts. As one visitor described Whetstone Gulf State Park: "The sites were fairly sized and shaded. Think 'woodsy suburb'." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer sightings common at several campgrounds. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Stillwater Reservoir provides dispersed camping options without developed facilities, earning high ratings from visitors who value its natural setting and fishing access.
"We also hike the gorge hiking trail. What a wonderful hike. Mid level rigor but the view of the gorge from the top are truly breath taking!!"
from $17 - $26 / night
Check Availability"Clean bathrooms with showers, sites for tents and rv’s, and a breathtaking trail to overlooks and waterfalls."
from $25 / night
Check Availability"But like I said the best part is the riding and close to several local bar/restaurants that have good food and good folks."
"Great getaway in upstate New York"
"This is one of the most family friendly resorts and a perfect weekend getaway for those living in other parts of New York State."
"Great campground with nice sites and access to other areas in the ADK ... easy hikes up Bald Mountain or Rocky Point."
"I love camping anywhere where there is a lake. I love kayaking, so normally if there is a lake nearby, then I always bring my kayak."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there"
"It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite. The drive up campsite had an outhouse though so that was nice"
"The entire campground is accessible, with gravel pack paths, and level sites. Charlie is the caretaker here and everyone says he is the nicest person you’ll meet. "
from $20 / night
"Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water. There are two access points to the water, the more hidden point is where you hike in for camping."
"Beaver Camp (or, officially Adirondack Mennonite Camping Assoc.), is a classic summer youth sleep-away camp on Beaver Lake."
ScoutWe just enjoyed being outside, made dinner at camp, and stayed up talking around the fire. This was a pretty spontaneous getaway for us and ended up being one of the more relaxing weekends we have had this summer.
ScoutWhat I liked about Riverbend East is that our trip could be as simple as we wanted it to be. We brought some food, a couple of chairs, books, and not much of a plan.
ScoutMy favorite memory from our trip is probably the simplest one. I got up before everyone else, made coffee, and sat outside while the campground was waking up. No rushing anywhere and nothing that needed to get done. Sometimes those quiet mornings are the whole reason we go camping.
ScoutI didn’t realize how much I needed a few days away from screens and work until we got here. Most of our time was spent reading outside, making food at the campsite, and taking walks. By the second day I had completely stopped checking the time. That is exactly what I want out of a camping trip.
ScoutThis was our kids’ first proper camping trip, so we weren’t sure how they would handle sleeping somewhere completely different. They ended up loving the whole experience.
ScoutR/v area seems pretty full and seems to have lots of full time campers possibly.
ScoutRiverbend East was where we decided to take our new camper for its first real trip. We were still figuring out where everything went and probably took twice as long as everyone else to get settled, but it ended up being a great weekend. Having the hookups available made our first trip much less intimidating. We are already looking forward to getting back out again.
GuideLarge sites, shade, beautiful beach,
ScoutWe really like keeping our RV here for the summer. It’s easy to come up for the weekend, settle in, and enjoy some time outside without having to set everything up again.
Dispersed camping opportunities around Lowville, New York can be found in several remote areas where campers enjoy more solitary experiences. Situated on the western edge of the Adirondack Park, this region includes elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet with temperature variations between mountain and valley locations. Winter temperatures often drop below zero while summer days typically reach the mid-70s with cool evenings.
Kayaking on peaceful waters: At Stillwater Reservoir, visitors can enjoy paddling on the expansive reservoir. "We kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self. Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there," shares one camper.
Hiking to waterfalls: Eagle Falls is accessible from a trailhead near Soft Maple Campground, about 2.5 miles from the campground entrance. "If you have time, stop halfway- the 2.5 mile mark will bring you to the entrance for Eagle falls, a short hike with a fantastic reveal," notes a visitor who appreciated this natural feature.
Wildlife observation: Deer are commonly spotted at campgrounds throughout the region. At Old Forge Camping Resort, one visitor notes, "the deer are incredible friendly and will walk right up to you." Birdwatching opportunities also abound with one Stillwater Reservoir camper reporting, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Natural beach areas: Several camping areas near Lowville feature beach access for swimming. "Soft Maple is a truly gorgeous small campground. Only about a dozen sites or so, first come first serve. The beach is lovely and clean," explains a visitor to Soft Maple Campground.
Waterfront sites: A campsite near Lowville, New York often comes with water views. At Francis Lake, "There are two access points to the water, the more hidden point is where you hike in for camping. A little stream turns under a few footbridges and out to francis lake," according to one reviewer who enjoyed the lakefront setting.
Privacy between sites: Though site privacy varies across the region, some campgrounds offer more secluded options. At Nicks Lake Campground, "The sites are nice and separate so you have a good amount of privacy. The bathrooms are cleaned daily so they are very family friendly," reports one satisfied camper.
Bear awareness: Black bears are active throughout the Lowville region, particularly at Nicks Lake Campground where one camper advises, "There were some pesky bears wandering at night looking for an easy meal. Although if you are careful about your food items they will not even stop at your site." Similar warnings apply at Old Forge where campers are instructed to "lock car doors and don't leave coolers or grills out."
Boat access required: Many campsites near Stillwater Reservoir are only accessible by water. "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached. It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite," warns one visitor.
Limited facilities: Dispersed camping areas typically have minimal amenities. Stillwater Reservoir offers primitive camping where "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir. I believe all the sites have privy boxes on them," according to a regular visitor.
Educational programs: Beaver Camp (Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates) offers structured family activities. "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available, as well as day use access to the beach and high ropes course," explains a visitor who found this option ideal for family outings.
Family-friendly swimming: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with supervision. At Nicks Lake, "The beach is manned by a lifeguard until 6pm and is very well maintained. We love bringing the kids here without worrying about loud crazy campers up until all hours of the night," reports a family camper.
Playgrounds and recreation: Some established campgrounds provide play equipment. Whetstone Gulf State Park has "a nice playground for children" according to visitor observations, making it suitable for families with younger children who need structured play options.
Site selection: When looking for a campsite near Lowville with an RV, check electrical specifications. At Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground, "not all sites have the same electric, there 2- 50 amp, some 30 amps and some 15 Amp," advises one RVer.
ATV access: Cedar Creek Cabin provides camping opportunities with direct ATV trail access. "The best part is the riding and close to several local bar/restaurants that have good food and good folks. The owners are very nice and helpful and live right close by if you have any issues," notes a visitor who appreciated this feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Lowville camping areas?
Camping areas around Lowville offer varying levels of amenities. Birch's Lakeside Campground and Marina provides comprehensive facilities including a general store, laundry services, and propane on-site. Whitaker Falls Park offers more basic amenities with water and toilets available. Most state park campgrounds in the region like Whetstone Gulf feature restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. For RV campers, some sites offer full hookups, while others provide dump stations. The more remote sites typically have vault toilets and drinking water, but limited electrical connections. Local campgrounds generally supply firewood for purchase, and many have waterfront facilities for swimming and boating.
Where are the best campgrounds near Lowville, NY?
Lowville's proximity to the Adirondacks provides excellent camping options. Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground is one of the closest options, featuring a dramatic gorge and hiking trails. For waterfront camping, Soft Maple Campground near Croghan offers boat-in and drive-in access with basic amenities. If you're willing to drive a bit further, Delta Lake State Park Campground at the foothills of the Adirondacks provides well-maintained facilities while still being close to civilization. Those seeking free primitive camping should consider Stillwater Reservoir for a more rustic experience in the region.
When is the best time of year to go camping in Lowville, NY?
The prime camping season around Lowville runs from late May through early October. Summer (June-August) offers warm days perfect for swimming and water activities, with Southwick Beach State Park Campground providing excellent Lake Ontario beach access during this peak period. For spectacular foliage, September through mid-October transforms the area with vibrant colors, making Eighth Lake Campground particularly stunning with its well-maintained trails and lake views. Spring camping (May-early June) offers fewer crowds but can be wet with black fly season. Most campgrounds in the region close by mid-October as temperatures drop, though some offer limited winter access for cold-weather enthusiasts.
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