Port Henry's camping options span across Lake Champlain's western shoreline and into nearby Adirondack wilderness areas. The region sits at approximately 100 feet elevation along the lake, rising dramatically to over 4,000 feet at nearby mountains. Camping facilities in this region typically close from mid-October through mid-May due to harsh winter conditions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access multiple difficulty levels from Rogers Rock Campground. "Rogers Rock is a great campground with many things to do like hiking, kayaking, swimming, biking and playing on a playground," says Meike W. The campground connects to trail systems for beginners and experienced hikers.
Historical exploration: Visit the ruins near Crown Point Campground. This location offers direct access to colonial history. "Lots of history here, old forts. On river border of NY & VT. Nice views from the campsites, some places to walk around including a bridge," notes Harry H. The nearby Champlain Memorial Lighthouse adds another point of interest for history enthusiasts.
Water activities: Kayak at Lincoln Pond Campground. The pond provides calm waters ideal for beginners. "Nice grounds, clean beach. Great for kayaking because the water is calm," reports Alice C. Boat rentals are available seasonally for $20, but bringing your own watercraft is more economical for multi-day stays.
What campers like
Site privacy: Look for wooded areas at Sharp Bridge Campground. "The campground is in a forest of red and white pines, giving it an open feeling," notes Amanda P. Sites are situated to maximize separation between neighbors where possible, though privacy levels vary.
Lake views: Secure lakeside sites at Bridgeview Harbour Marina. "This is a very unique spot. The campsites are just a short walk away from the working marina," explains Cam R. "The pumphouse campsite...is very private with many trees providing shade. And waking up to that sunrise every morning was incredible."
Swimming areas: Use designated beach facilities at Button Bay State Park. "This state park is so fun to camp at! It has a great playground for kids and a nice swimming pool! You can hike on the trail and Lake Champlain is right there!" says Debbie S. The park maintains a pool with lifeguards during peak season.
What you should know
Site selection: Research specific site numbers before booking at Rogers Rock. "Look carefully at the map when choosing your site. Many of them are near the main road. Sites aren't particularly level or large," cautions Jean C. Sites closer to water tend to be more popular and fill quickly.
Connectivity: Prepare for limited cell service at most campgrounds. "Cell phone coverage is spotty, I was getting 1-2 bars with Verizon," notes a camper at Rogers Rock Campground. Lincoln Pond has similar connectivity issues with only 1 bar of service in some areas.
Seasonal considerations: Plan for bugs during early summer. One camper at Rogers Rock noted "Site 233 has a ton of bugs and mosquitoes being so close to the creek run off, head closer to the lake if possible." Bug activity is highest from late May through July at most sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose Button Bay State Park for child-friendly facilities. "Simple campsites and not too crowded. Bathrooms are relatively close and complete with showers! Basketball courts, a park and swimming are some of the things to do there," reports Isabel L.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for organized events at Lake Placid/Whiteface KOA. "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade, hiking trails and a common area with some games," notes Nicole S. "Both sides have the tractor driving around, pulling the kids around."
Swimming options: Consider campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "The beach has a lifeguard to watch over the swimmers. Dogs are not permitted on the beach," explains John W. about Rogers Rock. Several campgrounds maintain beaches with varying levels of facilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Reserve sites with services at Crown Point Campground. "We stayed in our RV with no hookups. The site was gorgeous and the campground clean," reports Rae M. "Lots of room for big RV, good hookups. Pretty quiet. Clean and well cared for."
Site access: Check road conditions for larger rigs. At Sharp Bridge Campground, a camper noted "Dry camping with a bathroom/shower house that works but not well. Large sites, water available." Some campgrounds have limited maneuverability for larger RVs.
Dumping stations: Confirm availability before arrival. Button Bay State Park offers no hookups but maintains a dump station, as one camper mentioned: "Great campground. Everything from sunny meadow sites to more wooded private sites. Nice pool. No hookups but have a dump station."
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