Camping options near Salem, New York cluster around the Vermont border and southern Adirondacks region at elevations between 500-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping months (June-September), while nights can drop to 50-60°F even in midsummer. Most campgrounds in this area enforce quiet hours from 10pm-7am, with varying generator use restrictions.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Lake access at Emerald Lake State Park Campground offers calm waters ideal for beginners. "We try and get to Emerald Lake State Park at least a few times every summer. It's an awesome park for kids, and the turquoise water is a dream to cool off in," notes Tara S. Kayak and canoe rentals available onsite during summer months.
Family-friendly hiking: Short trails at Moreau Lake State Park Campground range from 0.5-3 miles with minimal elevation gain. "Over 20 miles in hiking trails, this is one of the nicest parks, I've visited," reports Michi P. The Vista Trail provides lake views without strenuous climbing.
Local attractions: Historic sites within 20 minutes of most Salem-area campgrounds. Visitor centers at Saratoga National Historical Park and Fort Ticonderoga operate from 9am-5pm daily during summer. "Saratoga Springs and Lake George are nearby if you want to explore. We recommend visiting the National Horse Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, if you have time," suggests Nancy W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resorts features unusually spacious camping spots. "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," explains Nancy W. Many sites accommodate multiple tents plus vehicles.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. "Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price," writes Sambath T. about Woodford State Park. Most campgrounds charge $0.25-$0.50 per minute for hot showers.
Waterfront access: Lake Lauderdale Campground provides direct swimming and fishing opportunities. "We visited last year and were blown away by the beauty. So many things near by to exlore. Lake lauderdale state park and Vermont is just 20 mins away," shares Mansi D. Boat launch areas typically open from 7am until sunset.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate May through mid-October only. Winter access limited to day use at select locations. "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the the lake and trails for badges," notes Tammy E. about Emerald Lake State Park.
Reservation windows: Book 9-11 months ahead for holiday weekends. Most campgrounds begin taking reservations in January for the following summer season. Limited first-come-first-served sites available during weekdays.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby highways. "The Northway was directly to the west, maybe 1000 ft through the woods, extremely loud traffic noise," reports Cat R. about Lake George Campsites. Request sites deeper in campground loops when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Woodford State Park Campground offers play areas near camping loops. "Perfect for families! there are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tus, and a few (hard to get) cabins," advises Sambath T. Reservations for cabins require booking at least 6 months in advance.
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours (6-8am) best for spotting local animals. Bring binoculars for bird watching around lake edges. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," mentions Melissa S. after staying at Woodford State Park.
Beach amenities: Child-friendly swimming areas include gradual entry points. "There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby," describes Tara S. about Emerald Lake. Most beaches offer lifeguards from 10am-5pm during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV. Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed," explains Nancy W. about Moreau Lake.
Power options: Lake George Escape Campground provides varying hookup levels. "We stayed before peak season in the days leading up to Memorial Day weekend. Very quiet and park was almost empty as they had just opened for the season 2 days prior," shares April L. Generator use typically allowed 8am-10pm at most campgrounds.
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate blocks for uneven terrain. "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. about King Phillip's Campground.
