Camping opportunities near Newton Falls, New York include a variety of tent and primitive sites scattered throughout the Adirondack region. Seasonal fluctuations affect water levels along the Oswegatchie River, creating changing conditions for riverside camping. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, making most campgrounds operate on limited schedules from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Paddling on Cranberry Lake: At Cranberry Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy kayaking on the extensive lake. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking. While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campground itself, they are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" notes Shari G.
Fishing from riverbank sites: Eel Weir State Park Campground offers river access for anglers. "About 35 spots all non electric, many on the water of the oswegatchie river. There is shower and rest rooms. A small boat launch area," reports Mary D. The park also features "a family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night."
Winter recreation: Old Forge Camping Resort serves as a base for cold-weather activities. "Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available," explains Carrie H.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Swan Bay Resort offers prime river views. "Our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great. Oh, and the best part was our view of the St. Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds," writes Matt S.
Clean facilities: Campground upkeep ranks high in visitor satisfaction. "Clean facilities, concrete pad to back in on or pull thru's," reports Phil M. about Swan Bay Resort, while another visitor comments on Cranberry Lake, noting "The bathrooms are kept tidy, the shower house is classic and clean, and there is an extensive recycling facility."
Natural wildlife sightings: Many campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had one or two [bears] in and around our camp site almost every nite. Heed the warnings and lock car doors and don't leave coolers or grills out," advises Becky M. about Old Forge Camping Resort.
What you should know
Limited services: Cell reception varies throughout the region. Indian Lake's Thornbush Acres RV Park is "mostly seasonal nice and quiet. Basic sites with amenities. Very roomy and spacious," according to Paul G., but travelers should expect limited connectivity.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires careful food storage. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," warns a reviewer about Old Forge.
Weather considerations: Cranberry Lake Campground experiences variable conditions. "Stayed here one night and it was super quiet and dark 8pm until we woke up. I hammocked right next to the water of Cranberry Lake," reports Jacob D., though rapid weather changes are common in the Adirondacks.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer child-specific features. At Fort Drum Recreation Area, "They offer regular camping sites and RV sites, they also have a dog park for the little furry ones," explains Crystal H., making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Consider water activity options: Campgrounds with swimming access provide entertainment. "It has a pretty little pond for swimming and paddle boats a short hiking trail around the pond and the staff were all very friendly," notes Becky M. about Old Forge Resort.
Plan for hiking difficulty levels: Assess trail challenge levels for younger campers. "The hike up and around Bear Mountain was a good workout and fun experience for our whole family (littlest is 6)," shares Christopher about Cranberry Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size and accessibility: Thornbush Acres RV Park offers spaces suited for different vehicle sizes. "Close to Lakes to Paddle, Store and Gas not far. Camp is quite more for Adults, no playgrounds or things for kids to do. Full hook ups and pull thru sites. Not very private you are close to your neighbors," reports Debbie W.
Dump station availability: RVers should note sanitary disposal options. Eel Weir State Park features basic amenities but lacks some RV services, with a reviewer noting "Small campground with 30+ sites. Grass sites with plenty of trees for shade."
Power supply considerations: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds. "We used a surge protector when plugging in to electric. It wasn't long before our power kept kicking off. We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites," warns LL J. about one facility, highlighting the importance of checking electrical reliability.
