The Adirondack region surrounding Peru, New York sits at approximately 500 feet elevation along Lake Champlain's western shore. RV campers visiting this area experience significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs typically reaching 80°F while winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing. The camping season in this region runs primarily from May through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Champlain: Several campgrounds near Peru offer direct access to Lake Champlain's recreational opportunities. At Alburg RV Resort, "There is a boat ramp and docks onsite... They do have an area you can store your boat and trailer. There is a big long sandy beach."
Local food exploration: The region features numerous farm stands and markets. One camper at Alburg RV Resort mentioned, "Devyn's Creemee Stand is close we got ice cream, farm fresh eggs and Maple syrup from there. There was a farm stand on the main road we got the best lettuce, strawberries and cilantro."
Golf course access: Several RV parks include on-site golfing. Apple Island Resort features "a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green" according to a visitor who noted, "My husband enjoyed his time at the golf course."
Wilderness hiking: The eastern Adirondacks offer numerous trails within driving distance. A visitor to Davey Falls ADK praised its "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails" and called it the "Perfect location to explore eastern Adk."
What campers like
Lakefront views: Campsites with Lake Champlain views rank highly among visitor preferences. At Apple Island Resort, campers appreciate the "Beautiful views of Lake Champlain. Plenty of spots for in and out visitors" and note that "The rows are terraced and they do offset sites on each row which is good."
Family-friendly amenities: Many parks offer activities specifically for children. Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks receives praise from families: "This is such a nice campground and a great experience! The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!"
Peaceful environment: Quieter campgrounds appeal to many visitors seeking relaxation. One camper at Iroquois Campground & RV Park appreciated that they "have a beautiful pond and its peaceful environment great for families."
Off-site attractions: The region's location provides convenient access to nearby destinations. A visitor to Smugglers Notch RV Village highlighted its position "Very close to Smuggs and only a short but beautiful ride to Stowe."
What you should know
Site sizing variations: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Shady Oaks Camping Resort, visitors note it's "Mostly Seasonal area with some overnight spots. No tents allowed. But pet friendly. Small but clean areas with electric at each site."
Seasonal operating schedules: Most RV parks in the Peru area close by mid-October. Apple Island Resort operates from "May 1 to Oct 20" while Shady Oaks maintains a shorter season of "May 1 - Sep 30."
Limited overnight availability: Some parks cater primarily to seasonal campers. One visitor to Shady Oaks noted there were "Mostly seasonal sites with only one overnight site that I saw."
Facility maintenance concerns: Quality varies between campgrounds. Some visitors report issues at certain facilities, with one camper at Ausable Pines RV Park & Campground noting "Bathrooms were disgusting. Rec hall has holes in the roof and walls, rarely open."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families should research on-site recreation options before booking. At Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, one visitor reported, "The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!! We enjoyed the water view and the staff was so nice to us!"
Pool availability: Swimming facilities vary between parks. Plattsburgh RV Park includes "a pool, community center, mini golf, it is a great summer spot" according to one visitor who called it "huge!"
Pet policies: Rules regarding pets differ between campgrounds. A visitor to Iroquois Campground & RV Park mentioned they "whent her for our first stay in our class c motorhome and had a wonderful weekend they have a beautiful pond... great for families and camp owners are helpful and polite."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV site layouts can present challenges at some campgrounds. At Apple Island Resort, "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."
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites when booking. A camper at Apple Island Resort advised, "Study the sites carefully because our 'premium view site' looked into a boulder. If you squinted and closed one eye you could a piece of the lake out of one sliver of our windshield."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies between parks and specific sites. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, one camper reported "Wifi at campsite was inconsistent and unreliable. Had to work from rec center and pool which was ok but not what we were told."
