Putnam Station offers convenient access to Adirondack Park camping experiences with elevations ranging from 380 to 800 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperatures fluctuate dramatically, with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows often below freezing. While glamping options exist, traditional campgrounds remain the most abundant option with over 400 designated sites available across neighboring facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers of all skill levels. At Rogers Rock Campground, water sites offer convenient fishing access. Christopher P. notes that the area has "crystal clear water," making it ideal for spotting fish. Some sites include convenient shoreline fishing spots so campers don't need to travel from their sites.
Kayaking and canoeing: Half Moon Pond State Park Campground offers particularly calm waters for paddle sports. "The pond is very weedy, so fishing was not so great, but the hiking trails around the park were fun. Half Moon is a hidden gem!" explains Cynthia K. Paddle rentals are available at several facilities, typically costing $10-15 daily.
Hiking local trails: Rogers Rock Campground provides trail access directly from the camping area. One reviewer mentions, "There is a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline." The Inman Pond Trail, about 15 minutes north of the area, offers an easy woodland hike leading to fishing spots and swimming areas.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw lots of efts!" states Rebecca D. from Half Moon Pond. Some campers report hearing coyotes at night, particularly in less developed areas. Drew H. notes, "Coyotes were howling all night and definitely heard some around our campground."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resorts receives consistent praise for site size. Nancy W. explains, "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors and provide lots of privacy." This privacy level stands out compared to other area facilities.
Waterfront camping: Direct water access ranks highly among reviews. Tracy B. from Scaroon Manor Campground shares, "We stayed on their 'rustic campsite', which was a short 900 ft hike from the car. Our camp spot had a picnic table, fire, grate and own outhouse. Could see the lake from our site and the spots were relatively spread out."
Modern restrooms: Clean, well-maintained facilities appear frequently in positive reviews. At Half Moon Pond State Park Campground, "Restrooms are modern and clean. Everyone seems to adhere to quiet hours so it was easy to get a good night's sleep," according to Cynthia K. Most facilities update bathroom facilities regularly.
Yurt camping options: Lake George Escape Campground offers yurt accommodations with distinctive circular designs. For those seeking yurt camping near Putnam Station, New York, these structures provide more weather protection than tents while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. Christina M. describes the glamping experience: "The tent we stayed in was gorgeous! We fit 5 of us comfortably. Linens, blankets and pillows were provided."
What you should know
Midweek vs. weekend experiences: Campground atmosphere changes dramatically between weekdays and weekends. Carrie J. advises about Rogers Rock Campground, "This place is packed on the weekends. If you want to avoid the rush of campers, definitely try to make the trip on a weekday. Sitting by the lake is really relaxing when you're all alone!"
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between facilities. Lauren S. notes about Rogers Rock, "Cell service is iffy." Dave S. reports from Lake Bomoseen KOA, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect." Plan accordingly for limited communication options.
Seasonal considerations: Most area campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October. Jean C. shares, "Located at the northern end of Lake George and about 7 miles south of Ticonderoga, Rogers Rock is a boater's paradise. I was here midweek, so it wasn't packed." Fall camping offers changing foliage but cooler overnight temperatures.
Traffic noise: Road proximity affects some camping experiences. At Scaroon Manor Campground, "There was some noise from the highway but not too bad," according to Drew H. Check site maps carefully when booking to identify locations further from main roads.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple recreational opportunities keep children engaged. At Lake George Escape Campground, Meag F. notes, "Great Camper camp ground! This place is great for families, it has different activities, a waterslide, peddle carts, kayaks and boats for rent, dancing, and teen specific activities too!" Most family-oriented facilities schedule daily organized events during peak season.
Beach access: Swimming areas with lifeguards provide safer water recreation options. Alice C. mentions, "The day use area has shady spots and grills, nice for the kids." Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming zones with regular water quality testing.
Playground facilities: Dedicated play areas give children alternatives to water activities. Meike W. shares about Rogers Rock, "Rogers Rock is a great campground with many things to do like hiking, kayaking, swimming, biking and playing on a playground." Most playgrounds accommodate various age groups with separate equipment areas.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours for family-friendly environments. David B. cautions about one experience, "It was a nice place until the boaters came through. Also there was a dog in the site next to us that continually jumped at us while growling." Consider site placement relative to boat launches and common areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Carefully evaluate site dimensions and access paths. Kim T. from Rogers Rock advises, "Some roads are unpaved, unmarked with directional signs, very narrow, and tough to navigate. The site was much smaller than expected." Request specific site information when booking to ensure appropriate size.
Hookup variations: Lake George RV Park offers full-service sites with consistent utility connections. Debbie W. shares, "The water/electric was positioned perfectly that we could have gotten away with using 5 foot connections. The garbage cans on every site was a wonderful addition which they empty everyday for you."
Leveling needs: Site terrain varies significantly between facilities. Michelle D. warns, "Sites are decent size, but be sure to bring boards to level your trailer for some sites are quite uneven!" Always travel with multiple leveling blocks and jacks.
Access road considerations: Navigation challenges exist for larger units. At Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground, RVers appreciate the more accessible sites. One reviewer notes, "We stayed at this campground in a travel trailer for one week spent hours floating down the river." Sites near entrance roads typically provide easier access for larger rigs.
