Camping sites near Queensbury, New York range from state-operated facilities to private resorts with the Adirondack Mountains providing a rugged backdrop. Average summer temperatures hover between 75-85°F during peak camping season from June to August, with occasional thunderstorms common in late afternoon. The region sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with surrounding mountains reaching 2,000-3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates across different campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Access multiple difficulty levels of hiking trails from Moreau Lake State Park Campground, with over 20 miles of marked paths. "I love the spacious campsites. It's very woodsy between sites, so it seems very private. Bathrooms and Showers are clean. Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks, I've visited," notes Michi P.
Biking on paved paths: Follow the Warren County Bikeway that connects King Phillip's Campground to downtown attractions. "We road the bike path each day to and from Lake George. It was downhill on the way there and a little bit of an uphill battle on the way back but totally worth it! Bring your bikes!!" recommends Stephanie H.
Water activities on smaller lakes: Enjoy non-motorized boating at Luzerne Campground where power boats aren't permitted. "My overall favorite place. Lover being on the far side of the lake with the private beach and no motorboats allowed. Tons of bike riding options. Great little lake for kayaking and fishing," shares Dan H.
River paddling: Rent kayaks and canoes or bring your own to explore the Schroon River from campgrounds with river access. "The river is the attraction at this Campground that provides hours of entertainment. If you are looking for a resort campground with lots of amenities this may not be the campground for you, but if you want a clean beautiful spot on a beautiful river convenient to Bolton's Landing & Lake George Village you will love it here!"
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at Moose Hillock Camping Resorts. "Each site is gigantic and well thought out and can easily say there is not a bad site in the place. Best sites are along the outer perimeter as they provide more privacy. We stayed in site 137 and had woods and some flat grassy areas behind us. A family could easily set up badminton or play catch back there," reports April L.
Heated pool complexes: Resort-style swimming areas with features beyond basic pools attract families during summer months. "The pool is very cool, my kids really enjoyed it, but it was crowded and you are constantly dodging footballs & other balls that are constantly whizzing by your head. The pool is a little less crowded at night & lit up nicely," observes Happy Camper L.
Campsite fire pits: Custom fire ring designs at some campgrounds enhance evening gatherings. "Sites are massive. Even though this is a private campground, each site is like it's own private oasis with plenty of trees to make you feel like you are camping at most state campgrounds. You are not on top of your neighbor and can actually have some privacy. Great pool and activities. My only 'knock' against is the fire pits. 3 haphazardly arranged rocks does not constitute a legitimate fire area," mentions Tony B.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campers note the quality of shower and bathroom facilities varies by campground. "Bathrooms and laundry were clean but laundry costs were high at $3.50 for a wash and $3.00 for a dry," notes Nancy W.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close by mid-October. "Most state-run parks in New York close up before the middle of October, making private campgrounds good options for off-season camping."
Weekend crowding: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with water features. "The park was not very crowded when we were there, but we can imagine it could get very busy and noisy in the busy summer season. The beach area seems to be a draw for people so the summer camping season is probably packed," reports one camper at Moreau Lake State Park Campground.
Price variations: Rates can increase significantly during holiday periods at private resorts. "This campground does come with a high price tag. It was $66/night during the first part of our stay but them jumped up to in-season rates that were $99/night plus $20/night because it was a holiday weekend," warns Nancy W.
Firewood purchasing: Buying firewood at campgrounds is typically more expensive than roadside vendors. "Their price for firewood is $9 for an average size bundle but there are plenty of places along Route 149 with better prices."
Site selection importance: Campground quality varies significantly by individual site location. "With over 400 campsites there are a lot to chose from and hard to know which is best for you unless you have been there before."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Some resorts schedule daily entertainment during peak season. "Beyond clean facilities. Very friendly and helpful staff. Went with 3 kid under 8yrs old. they had a blast abd so did we, they have family activities everyday too," shares ryan G. from Moose Hillock Camping Resorts.
Consider campgrounds with multiple pool options: Look for facilities with both indoor and outdoor pools for weather flexibility. "Great for families. Nicely wooded and full sun site options as well as rental units if you don't have an RV. Boating pond, fishing pond, playgrounds, cafe/ice cream store, nightly weekend entertainment at their playhouse, new waterpark and two pools, tennis courts, laundry facilities, huge store, firewood and a trolley in the park," describes April L.
Choose sites near amenities with young children: Request locations near bathrooms and playgrounds when traveling with small children. "Great campground for families, we stayed at a tent site right near the playground. Pool, arcade, a short trolley ride to downtown lake George. It was a great stay and the kids loved it," notes Katrina J.
Seek out campgrounds with local transportation: Many facilities offer trolley service to nearby attractions. "The trolley will pick you up out front to go into town," explains one camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some campgrounds. "The site pad was packed gravel and slightly unlevel. We have a 27 foot camper and was slightly difficult to maneuver into the site. If your camper sits low, chances are it will hit the road on some of the inclines," cautions Cat R. from Lake George RV Park.
Interior road navigation: Many campgrounds have winding roads that can be challenging for larger RVs. "Roads in the park are confusing because none are parallel or perpendicular so we had to go slow just to make sure we didn't miss a turn in the RV."
Sewer hookup positioning: Some campgrounds have unusual sewer connection angles. "The sewer hook-up was very weird and at an angle that was hard to secure my hose to. Instead of flowing straight down into the ground, it was at 45 degrees and took a big rock for me to secure it."
Full hookup availability: Call ahead to confirm site utilities as they vary widely even within the same campground. "You are supposed to leave your trash at the front of your site but sometimes it was not picked up until late in the day."
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