Luzerne Campground, located in the southeastern Adirondacks region, sits at approximately 750 feet elevation in a mixed hardwood forest terrain. The area experiences seasonal variations typical of upstate New York with summer highs averaging 80°F while nights can dip into the 50s even during peak camping months. Beyond its specialized equestrian facilities, the wider Thurman area connects to extensive trail systems ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging backcountry routes.
What to do
Paddle the quiet waters: Limekiln Lake Campground offers exceptional paddling opportunities with pristine water conditions. "The lake is beautiful and quiet, very very clean water you can see the bottom. I have been to multiple lakes in Adirondack, you may confirm one of the cleanests," shares Murat H. The lake temperature remains comfortable for swimming during summer months.
Explore hiking networks: Moreau Lake State Park Campground provides over 20 miles of trails for every experience level. "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.
Go tubing or rafting: Seasonal water activities are available near several campgrounds. "GREAT LOCATION! Small state run campground in the SE Adirondacks- plenty to do: tubing and white water rafting (spring) great hikes, horseback riding, canoe/kayaking, zip lines," explains Troy H. from Luzerne Campground.
What campers like
Fishing accessibility: Nearby lakes offer productive fishing spots with easy shore access. "Older camp facilities but well maintained, nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing," reports Robert L. about his stay at Luzerne Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Branbury State Park Campground receives high marks from families for its range of activities. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," explains J L.
Campsite spacing: Many campers appreciate the privacy between sites at area campgrounds. "We loved our stay at Limekiln Lake! We had site 270, which was close enough to walk down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!) but a little too far to walk to the beach. Our site was spacious, with room for two cars, 4 kayaks, and two tents," shares Lena L.
What you should know
Bear presence: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity requiring proper food storage. "Enjoyed 3 nights here with no complaints. There is a minor bear problem but they didn't do much besides sniff around. Rangers were always right on top of things when one would wonder around and sure to chance them off," notes Kevin C. about Limekiln Lake Campground.
Insect activity: Be prepared for seasonal bugs, particularly in early summer. "There were a ton of sites here, but only a handful occupied during a week in midJune. The flies and gnats were kind of bad, but we had a screen room to keep them at bay," reports Anna G.
Water temperature variations: Lake temperatures can vary significantly. "The lake this time of year is beautiful and clear and a very nice temperature for dunking in. There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks," explains Lena L. about Limekiln Lake in August.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Choose campgrounds with safe cycling areas for children. "Really nice park kids got to ride their bikes everywhere is with minimal traffic," notes Jynee Z. about Limekiln Lake Campground.
Check beach facilities: Moreau Lake State Park offers supervised swimming areas. "Nice state campground, very clean, nice staff. Campground and swimming area becomes very crowded, especially on holiday weekend due to proximity to I-87 and number of downstate tourists that frequent the park," advises Robert L.
Consider lean-to options: Some campgrounds offer covered structures. "Book early if you want to get a site with a lean-to! Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" recommends Nicole E. about Branbury State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For equestrian camping near Thurman, New York, the specialized equestrian sites offer distinct advantages. "We stayed in site 33 which is in the equestrian camping area. It's really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink. We had fantastic connection. The sites in the equestrian camping area are huge and so clean," notes Chelsea B. about Frontier Town Campground.
Tight turns: Some campgrounds have challenging access points for larger rigs. "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)," advises Nancy W. about Moreau Lake State Park.
Site preparation: Examine your site selection carefully when booking. "I was in site 43, it was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen. My 75 foot starling cable did not even reach all the way back out to the road. I drove through the equestrian loop and found it very confusing," reports Butch K. from Frontier Town.
