Potsdam camping options stretch across St. Lawrence County in northern New York, typically at elevations between 300-500 feet. The camping season generally runs May through September, with peak temperatures averaging 75-85°F in summer months. Winter camping isn't available at most locations as temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access points: Higley Flow State Park Campground offers excellent fishing on the Raquette River. "Whether it's playing in the water or in the playground this place is awesome to bring your children," notes one visitor. The park features multiple fishing spots with varying water levels due to dam operations.
Kayaking opportunities: Cranberry Lake Campground provides direct water access. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking," reports a camper. The lake spans over 6,000 acres with numerous coves and inlets to explore by paddle craft.
Local attractions: Visit the Eisenhower Locks near Massena to watch ships transit between water levels. "Be sure to visit the nearby Eisenhower Locks and see the ships go through. Really fascinating!" advises a camper who stayed at Barnhart Island Camping Area.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Jacques Cartier State Park Campground features premium waterfront spots. "We book early so we can get a water front site. Everyone swims, kayaks, and paddle boards off their sites," explains a regular visitor. Waterfront sites typically book 6-9 months in advance.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Pine Ridge Park Campsite organizes regular activities. "My family started camping at Pine ridge in 2018 as seasonal campers because we had heard all the great reviews," shares a camper. "The whole time they are open they have activities planned for the kids all summer long."
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower buildings at most parks receive regular maintenance. "The park is unbelievably well kept. The sites are large with some located with waterfront," reports a visitor to Jacques Cartier State Park. Several campgrounds have recently upgraded their shower facilities.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across the region. A visitor noted that "my AT&T service was not good and kept bouncing off Canadian towers so be careful!" Verizon typically has better coverage in the northern New York region.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer. "We did our usual reservation-less 'pull up and see what they have open' style of camping, but during the main season, this place is busy! You'll definitely need to plan ahead," advises a Cranberry Lake camper.
Limited supplies: Eel Weir State Park Campground and similar remote locations have few amenities nearby. "They sell firewood right up the road or you can just visit the Amish for wood scraps," notes a camper, highlighting the need to bring most supplies with you.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several parks offer dedicated swim zones with varying amenities. "Swimming hole was nice and relaxing. Plenty of sand for the kids to play in and the water was warmer than expected," reports a visitor to Jacques Cartier State Park.
Playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds have recently installed or upgraded play equipment. "There's a great guarded beach if you have young ones with a newer playground right next to it," mentions an Alycia M. at Jacques Cartier.
Wildlife viewing: Keep watch for local animals, especially in early morning. "I came across the largest and most beautiful sounding loon early in the morning," shares a camper at Higley Flow, while another at Eel Weir mentions "the family of owls that inhabit the trees that you see every night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: RV sites near Potsdam, New York vary in accessibility. "Some sites were hilly and we would not have been able to get our trailer in, so its worth calling before you book," advises a camper who stayed at Jacques Cartier with a small travel trailer.
Hookup availability: Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA provides full-service sites with good separation. "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites," notes a reviewer, adding that "the laundry room and bathrooms were clean."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at state parks. "Sites are large and wooded, most all paved (not always very level!)" cautions a visitor to Higley Flow regarding the campground's paved but uneven pads.
