Dispersed camping areas are available around Peru, New York, located in the northeastern part of Essex County. Camping in this region offers access to the western shores of Lake Champlain at an average elevation of 500 feet. Summers typically see temperatures between 65-80°F, with cooler nights ideal for campfires. While traditional tent and RV camping is common, yurt camping near Peru, New York has grown in popularity for those seeking semi-permanent structures with more protection from the region's unpredictable weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking at AuSable Chasm: Located just minutes from Peru's camping areas, AuSable Chasm Campground offers numerous trail options. "I wish I had my bike!!! I didn't know that this was a biking campground and there were SO MANY trails. Made the most of them with running, but overall, a fantastic campground," notes Rebecca Y. These trails range from easy walks to more challenging terrain with spectacular views.
Water activities on Lake Champlain: The proximity to Lake Champlain creates multiple water recreation opportunities. "There is a day area with a beach as well as many places around the island to swim. Just wear water shoes since it is mainly a rocky coast," advises Doris B. about Burton Island State Park Campground. Swimming, kayaking, and canoeing are popular throughout the summer months.
Cycling on the Island Line Trail: For cycling enthusiasts camping in the region, this unique trail offers exceptional lake views. "Definitely bring your bikes to ride the trail & catch the ferry! Such a unique experience to cycle across a lake!" recommends Whitney W., who visited Camp Skyland. The trail connects multiple shoreline areas with dedicated bike paths and ferry crossings.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront access points throughout the region. At North Beach Campground, "This has been one of our favorite campsites so far. We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups," shares Laura L. These waterfront sites typically cost $5-10 more than standard sites but provide direct lake access.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently note the quality of amenities. "Bathrooms and shower rooms are individual rooms... The bathrooms were clean and had soap, paper towels, a garbage receptacle, and a mirror in each," mentions Lee D. at AuSable Chasm Campground. Most campgrounds in the area offer shower facilities, though some require quarters (typically 50¢ for 5 minutes).
Proximity to cultural attractions: The area's strategic location provides easy access to both natural and cultural sites. "Right on the Burlington bike path and across the beach, there is plenty to do and easy access to town and other attractions," notes Michael G. about North Beach Campground. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive of Peru's camping areas.
What you should know
Limited yurt camping availability: While yurt camping near Peru, NY exists at select locations, reservations for these structures fill quickly. "The campground is open from Memorial Day Weekend through the Tuesday morning after Labor Day," notes Rita M. about Burton Island State Park, which applies to many seasonal yurt facilities as well. Most require booking 4-6 months in advance.
Ferry access requirements: Some camping destinations require water transport. At Camp Skyland, "Great tent/RV/cabin site on an island in Lake Champlain. Tent area is a large field with cabins on the rock bluffs and RV row along the road," explains Patrick. Ferry schedules typically run from 8am to 6pm daily during peak season with reduced hours in spring and fall.
Weather considerations: The Lake Champlain region experiences variable conditions. "Mosquitos were intense here, so bring spray & plan accordingly! Our screened-in tent area saved us from being eaten up," warns Whitney W. Thunderstorms can develop quickly, especially during July and August afternoons.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Families appreciate designated recreation spaces. "Large and nice-looking playground, pool, volleyball net, disc golf and mountain biking/hiking trails," describes Lee D. about the facilities at AuSable Chasm Campground. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain supervised swim areas during daytime hours.
Consider sites with electrical hookups: Family camping often benefits from power access. At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, "We stayed in a full hook-up 50a pull through for 3 nights as we toured the northeast... Water pressure was good, road noise was minimal, sites are spaced apart well," reports Kristine B. These amenities typically add $8-15 to nightly rates but provide conveniences families appreciate.
Look for campgrounds with morning activities: Some locations offer structured programs. "The KOA was recently moved from a different location... They have a jumping pad on that side also. Both sides have the tractor driving around, pulling the kids around," notes Nicole S. about the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA, where morning activities typically run from 9-11am during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Choose the right campground section: At many larger facilities, different areas serve different needs. "There are two distinct sections of this campground– the 'Resort' section and the '100-Acre Woods' section. We stayed in site #73 of the 100-Acre section and would highly recommend staying in this area as opposed to the other. This section has tall shad trees and much more space between sites than the resort area," advises Nancy W. about Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
Check electrical service quality: RVers should verify power stability before setup. At Shelburne Camping Area, "We have a 'big rig' 40' 5th wheel with 4 slide outs... They had a full hook up, pull-thru corner space for us. Offered parking for our truck right across lane on separate site," reports DJ. Testing electrical outlets before full hookup prevents potential issues with sensitive equipment.
Consider dump station logistics: "We received 32 channels; albeit, they were not HD so the picture quality was not great. Roads in the park are gravel and were very dusty," notes Nancy W. Most RV facilities near Peru have dump stations, but some only offer this service on specific days or times, typically between 9am-noon and 3-5pm.
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