Camping in Parishville, New York provides access to the western Adirondack region, characterized by its mix of forests, rivers, and lakes at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range between 55-80°F with higher humidity levels near water bodies. The area sits at the edge of the Adirondack Park, offering both state-operated facilities and private campgrounds with varying levels of development.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at Buck Pond: The interconnected lake system allows paddlers to explore multiple waterways from a single launch point. Buck Pond Campground serves as an excellent base for water activities. "We camped here with our 3 youngest children. They had a wonderful time exploring, and it was as peaceful as any spot I've been! Our site was tucked back into some trees and you couldn't see any other sites from it," notes one visitor.
Explore shipping channels: The St. Lawrence Seaway region offers unique opportunities to watch international shipping vessels. "There is an old section and a new section. Near the Eisenhower Locks which is nice to watch the ships come in," reports a camper at Jacques Cartier State Park Campground.
Yurt camping near Parishville: For a more structured yet rustic experience, yurt accommodations provide solid shelter with natural surroundings. Adirondack Adventure Base maintains five exclusive sites including yurt options near hiking trails with basic amenities including toilets, picnic tables and fire rings.
Winter adventures: Unlike many seasonal operations, some campgrounds offer year-round potential. "Summers are beautiful winter are terrible," explains a reviewer at Riverside Campground, highlighting the region's distinct seasonal character.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers value the sense of isolation available at certain sites. "You do have to park and hike in a bit, but the views are so worth it! You can have a beautiful site right on the lake, and your neighbors are not on top of you," explains a visitor describing the west side of Meacham Lake Campground.
Waterfront access: Sites with direct water access rank among the most sought-after. "We book early so we can get a water front site. Everyone swims, kayaks, and paddle boards off their sites," shares a repeat visitor to Jacques Cartier State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers frequent wildlife sightings. "WE love staying at Rollins Pond in a tent! Our family always meet friendly people and falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane," reports a camper at Rollins Pond Campground.
Amenities for extended stays: Facilities supporting longer visits receive positive feedback. "Owner's are great the rates low and the place clean and right on the river," notes a visitor who returns to Riverside Campground annually.
What you should know
Differing campground sections: Several parks feature distinct camping areas with varying amenities. "It's split into 2 sides. The west side is way cooler, less bugs and more views. The east side is RV/camper heaven," explains a Meacham Lake visitor describing the important differences between areas.
Site characteristics vary significantly: Research specific sites before booking. "Some sites are more spacious than others, but with the lake views, you can't complain. No hookups, so a bit trickier for rv's, but being right on the water makes it worth it," reports a visitor to Rollins Pond.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds in the Parishville region operate from mid-May through early September, with peak season in July and August. Some facilities have extended seasons: "Overall it's a nice campground. Well managed and very well upkept!" notes a camper who visited Meacham Lake in late June.
Water conditions: Water access and swimming opportunities vary significantly. "Favorite thing is the family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night," shares a visitor to Eel Weir State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of researching specific features beyond swimming.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas for children. "Swimming hole was nice and relaxing. Plenty of sand for the kids to play in and the water was warmer than expected," reports a Jacques Cartier State Park visitor.
Biking-friendly environments: Certain campgrounds offer safe biking opportunities. "We love Coles Creek because we have two little ones and they are all about riding their tricycles around the grounds. People drive super slow and watch for kids, so that's great," explains a visitor to Coles Creek State Park Campground.
Camping near attractions: Position your stay near outside entertainment options. "An ice cream place not far away, with a long line, and it was the best ice cream we had all summer!" notes a Buck Pond visitor, highlighting the importance of nearby treats for younger campers.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant temperature variations, even in summer. "I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow," cautions a Rollins Pond visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds and specific sites. "Sites are tightly packed and a lot is in open areas where you're camping with all of your neighbors, good or bad," notes a Coles Creek visitor, emphasizing the importance of researching specific site layouts.
Dump station access: Most state parks offer dump stations but not all sites have sewer hookups. "About half the sites have electric and the balance are dry," reports a Jacques Cartier visitor, highlighting the limited full-hookup availability.
Site leveling: Terrain varies significantly between and within campgrounds. "Some sites were hilly and we would not have been able to get our trailer in, so its worth calling before you book," advises an RVer who stayed at Jacques Cartier State Park.
Limited yurt camping options near Parishville: While traditional camping dominates, some yurt accommodations exist at select locations like Adirondack Adventure Base, offering a middle ground between tent and cabin camping.
