Camping opportunities surround Morrisonville in New York's Adirondack region, where the average elevation of 500 feet provides moderate terrain for both casual and experienced campers. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while spring and fall can drop into the 40s at night, requiring proper sleeping gear. Winter camping is available at select locations but requires specialized equipment due to temperatures that regularly fall below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking the Ausable River: Access points near AuSable Chasm Campground allow paddlers to explore calm sections of the river. "We rented kayaks and a canoe from down the road Adirondack River rentals and they delivered and picked up from our site," notes Sheri S., who appreciated the convenience of delivery service.
Visit historic sites: Within 30 minutes of most campgrounds, you can explore Revolutionary War landmarks and the 1814 Battle of Plattsburgh sites. "The park is located on Lake Champlain in Vermont! This is a relatively large campground but is well laid out and doesn't feel small even when it's packed to the gills," writes Sarah C. about Grand Isle State Park Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated biking networks. According to Anthony I. at Champlain Resort Adult Campground, "We rented bikes from a farm down the road that the owner told us about. Definitely a good choice." Many trails connect to the region's extensive Lake Champlain Bikeways network.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites feature direct lake or river frontage. Kimberly writes about Ausable Point Campground, "I was on a water spot but the only problem is u have to climb over logs to get to the water, from the riverside." Sites along Lake Champlain tend to fill quickly during summer months.
Adult-only options: For campers seeking quieter environments, adult-specific campgrounds provide peaceful alternatives. "It is child free which means it is super quiet and so relaxed. We spent about 11 days in absolute paradise at this campground," notes Anthony about Champlain Resort Adult Campground, highlighting the calm atmosphere.
Beach amenities: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas with amenities beyond what's found at public beaches. "The beach is very clean and beautiful. There is a pump station for RVs but a lot of tent camping as well," Michelle D. reports about Cumberland Bay State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October. Nancy W. notes about Apple Island Resort, "We stayed there the last week of the season so things were very quiet." Fall colors typically peak in early October, making it a popular time to visit.
Ferry schedules: When traveling between New York and Vermont campsites, ferry schedules impact transit times. "The campground is located near a local ferry dock which does provide a bit of noise when the boat comes and goes," mentions Nancy W. about Champlain Resort Adult Campground.
Island camping limitations: Boat-accessible sites have specific considerations. "Boat access only camping. Pick anchorage or sites early as its always busy on weekends and first come first served (no reservations)," advises LauraandJosh W. about Valcour Island camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Morrisonville feature dedicated play areas. At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, Nicole S. reports, "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games."
Beach safety considerations: When camping with children, beach access varies considerably. Melissa L. notes about Grand Isle State Park Campground: "Very rocky beach with little to no sand to play in... overall we considered coming back because it was a great stay. Very peaceful and laid back but without a beach for the kids to play when it got hot."
Youth programs: Some parks offer structured activities for younger campers. Jessica G. reports about Grand Isle State Park Campground: "It was a quiet, family friendly campground with a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: RVers should note variations in utility placement. Nancy W. mentions about Apple Island Resort: "One thing to note is that their hook ups are on the passenger side. You have to pull straight in with the truck and camper. This is because a lot of class A prefer this way."
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary widely in quality. Brian P. warns about AuSable Chasm Campground: "The 'road' into the campground is more like a goat trail, with numerous washouts and uneven rocks and dirt." Larger rigs should call ahead to verify access.
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. Brian P. continues about AuSable Chasm: "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles." Carrying additional leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.
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