Redford camping areas provide access to both the northern Adirondack Mountain region and Lake Champlain shoreline. Located within Essex County at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summer days with cooler evenings. Campgrounds near Redford typically remain open from mid-May through early October when temperatures average 75°F during daytime and 55°F at night.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Ausable Chasm Campground offers extensive trail systems for cyclists. "I wish I had my bike!!! I didn't know that this was a biking campground and there were SO MANY trails. Made the most of them with running," shares Rebecca Y. The trails connect directly to camping areas, eliminating the need to transport bikes elsewhere.
Swimming in natural settings: The Ausable Point Campground beach area provides swimming opportunities in Lake Champlain. "Near the larger campground at the entrance is a private little beach with plenty of parking," notes one visitor. Water temperatures reach approximately 72°F by mid-July.
Waterfall hiking: At Wilmington Notch Campground, campers can access waterfall trails directly from their sites. "There is an accessible trail from the back of the campground to an amazing waterfall on the west branch of the Ausable River and plenty of spots to trout fish/swim," explains Zachary M. Most trails range from 0.25-1.5 miles in length.
What campers like
River access sites: Campers appreciate waterfront spots at several dog friendly campgrounds near Redford. At Ausable Point, one visitor recommends: "Had site 98 on the river, highly recommend a river site or beach site. Was told getting beach site is nearly impossible, luckily got one on the river." River sites allow for direct water activities from camp.
Camp store amenities: The Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday offers extensive on-site shopping. "They have a huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games," notes Nicole S. The store stocks camping supplies, firewood, and some grocery items.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value seclusion at Buck Pond Campground. "We camped here with our 3 youngest children. They had a wonderful time exploring, and it was as peaceful as any spot I've been! Our site was tucked back into some trees and you couldn't see any other sites from it," explains Trina W. Sites average 50-75 feet apart.
What you should know
Campground layout variations: At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, the property has distinct sections. "This campground has 2 sides, the mountain side and river side you can choose when booking they are about 1/4 mile away from one another," mentions Nicole S. Mountain side features more trees while river side has less shade but direct river access.
Booking requirements: Reservations are strongly recommended for pet-friendly campgrounds near Redford during peak season. "We stayed at Wilmington Notch for a night prior to backpacking. Definitely make reservations in advance during the summer!" advises Maggie F.
Water access challenges: At Taylor Pond, boat-in sites require navigation preparation. "Long skinny lake can be windy and rough. Boat launch is rough," warns LauraandJosh W. Watercraft rentals may not be available at all locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Cumberland Bay State Park Campground offers play structures for children. "This is a great place for the family. The playground is great. New bath house," notes Sheri C. The playground accommodates ages 3-12 with multiple structures.
Ice cream proximity: Buck Pond Campground has nearby dessert options. "There was an ice cream place not far away, with a long line, and it was the best ice cream we had all summer!" says Trina W. Most campgrounds have ice cream vendors within a 15-minute drive.
Swimming safety: Grand Isle State Park Campground provides lake access with some limitations. "Very rocky beach with little to no sand to play in, a bit of a walk to the water," mentions Melissa L. Parents should pack water shoes and supervise children near shorelines.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When camping at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, larger RVs should request specific areas. "There are two distinct sections of this campground—the "Resort" section and the "100-Acre Woods" section. We stayed in site #73 of the 100-Acre section and would highly recommend staying in this area as opposed to the other," explains Nancy W.
Road conditions: Gravel roads at many campgrounds require careful navigation. "Roads in the park are gravel and were very dusty. There is a liquor store on property and the general store sells lots of different kinds of beer and has a few on tap," notes Nancy W. about Lake Placid KOA.
Hook-up availability: Many Redford-area pet-friendly campgrounds offer partial hookups. "Site was spacious and level with trees between other sites. No hookups on our site, water was available throughout the campground for filling tank," explains a visitor at Ausable Point Campground.