RV camping near Mechanicville, New York offers access to the southern Adirondack foothills with elevations ranging from 250 to 1,000 feet across the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F while fall brings cooler 40-65°F conditions with peak foliage occurring from late September through mid-October. Cell service can vary dramatically between campgrounds, with stronger signals near larger towns and weaker coverage in more remote locations.
What to do
Swimming at natural quarries: The Dorset Quarry near Dorset RV Park offers a unique swimming experience in crystal-clear spring water. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy," noted one visitor.
River activities: Many campgrounds feature water access with varying amenities. At Alpine Lake RV Resort, waterfront sites provide direct lake access. According to a reviewer, "Waterfront sites worth the dollars! Bring your boats and SUP boards for lots of fun! Grounds are large and well maintained. Hikers and water enthusiasts will live this place!"
Hiking trails: Jamaica State Park offers well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels. A camper mentioned, "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the premium waterfront locations available at Jamaica State Park Campground. "The campsites were beautiful with the river behind us. Not to many people there so we're got the best spot. The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties," reported one visitor who enjoyed the riverside setting.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness is consistently mentioned in positive reviews. At Ledgeview Village RV Park, visitors appreciate the attention to detail: "The place was packed but you wouldn't know it. So peaceful. The pool was very cold but spotless, which was surprising since there's pine trees all around."
Fall color viewing: The region's autumn foliage draws seasonal campers. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. In the Spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure," noted a Jamaica State Park visitor.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Finding level sites can be tricky at some campgrounds. At Lake George Schroon Valley Resort, a camper observed, "Most sites by the river don't have sewer, but there is a pump out service available."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The downside is the noise from the Northway within earshot and from the noisy seasonal campers who insist on blasting their music to the whole campground. Loosely enforced quiet hours," reported one Lake George Schroon Valley Resort visitor.
Road navigation: Internal roads at campgrounds vary in quality. At Dorset RV Park, a camper warned, "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities vary between parks. At Lake George Escape Campground, a visitor noted, "Great Camper camp ground! This place is great for families, it has different activities, a waterslide, peddle carts, kayaks and boats for rent, dancing, and teen specific activities too!"
Safety considerations: Natural features require supervision. At Jamaica State Park, a camper cautioned, "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls."
Pet policies: Arrowhead Marina & RV Park provides dedicated pet areas: "We were next to a little fenced in area for dogs that our dog loved," mentioned one visitor. However, at Dorset RV Park, unexpected animal encounters can occur: "While the campground is pet friendly, a warning about free roaming chickens would have been nice. I would not have brought my (prey driven) dogs if I had known."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for variable terrain when motorhome camping near Mechanicville. "The terrain throughout the area requires leveling equipment at most parks. One Dorset RV Park visitor advised, "Our site was level but some definitely were not."
Hookup configurations: Full-service sites have specific arrangements. At Alpine Lake RV Resort, one camper mentioned, "The RV sites were spacious and clean, with full hookups and easy access. Everything was well organized, and I appreciated the quiet atmosphere and friendly neighbors."
Navigation challenges: Internal roads present difficulties for larger vehicles. A Dorset RV Park visitor warned, "The roads and campsites are gravel and a little tight to get around because of all the trees but we were able to manage in our 45' motorhome."
