Camping options near Ticonderoga, New York extend beyond Lake George to include waterfront sites on Lake Champlain and several smaller ponds within the Adirondack region. The area sits at approximately 100-400 feet elevation with camping seasons typically running from mid-May through mid-October. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night even during early and late camping season, with frequent fog over the lakes in morning hours.
What to do
Paddling multiple connected ponds: Putnam Pond Campground provides access to both Putnam Pond and North Pond. "We spent a day on the ponds (Putnam & North Pond are connected) and it is beautiful. The water is cool, clean and beautiful," notes a camper at Putnam Pond Campground.
Explore historic sites: Located near Fort Ticonderoga, campgrounds in this area offer access to significant historical landmarks. "Ft Ticonderoga is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors," notes a visitor to Brookwood RV Resort.
Hiking to abandoned mines: Several hiking trails near Putnam Pond lead to interesting destinations. One camper shared, "Take the yellow trail through the sites to the Rock pond lean-to. Along the pond there are great views and potential swimming locations. Take the red trail around and you will come across the old graphite mine, which was cool to look at its remnants."
Beach access for day use: Many state parks offer beach facilities even if you're not staying overnight. At Branbury State Park, "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!"
What campers like
Private island camping: For a truly unique experience, remote boat-in sites offer exceptional privacy. "We have stayed here at the remote sites several times. Site roo5 is our favorite - a private island all to yourself!" explains a camper at Putnam Pond Campground.
Clean facilities despite rustic settings: State park campgrounds in the area maintain high standards of cleanliness. At Crown Point Campground, a camper noted, "Bathrooms are definitely rustic but kept clean. Some of the campsites are very close together, and others have a decent amount of space between them."
Off-grid tranquility: Many campers appreciate the limited connectivity. One visitor to Brookwood RV Resort mentioned, "We got crappy cell service, and the camp wifi was spotty- but hey, we were camping, right?"
Well-maintained grounds: Careful attention to site maintenance stands out to visitors. "Campsites were clean with nice fire pits. Highly recommend!" shared a camper about Branbury State Park.
What you should know
Water conservation requirements: During drought periods, campgrounds may implement water restrictions. At Brookwood RV Resort, "With COVID-19 restrictions this year, the bathrooms are closed to those who have facilities in their RV. There's also a drought and they're on a well, so water conservation is essential."
Remote sites require planning: Boat-in sites offer privacy but need preparation. "Site roo6 is good too but a little further to row out to," notes a camper at Putnam Pond Campground.
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is essential in this region. One visitor to Moosalamoo Campground observed, "I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me."
Weekend noise levels: Quieter experiences are more likely midweek. A visitor to Crown Point notes, "I was here midweek, so it wasn't packed, but I imagine when it's full that it may be noisy - and not just from the people."
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities: Many campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water recreation. At Half Moon Pond State Park, "We were easily able to go straight from the tent to our kayak, which was so awesome."
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature programs at state parks. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," shares a visitor to Branbury State Park.
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Look for shorter trails with interesting features. "There is a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline," notes a camper at Rogers Rock Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas cater to different preferences. "The pond is very weedy, so fishing was not so great, but the hiking trails around the park were fun," explains a visitor to Half Moon Pond State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have limited spots for big rigs. A visitor to Lake Bomoseen KOA noted, "It was a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but manageable. The sites are a good size and relatively level."
Hookup availability varies: Research utilities before arriving. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP), level, shaded site," reports a camper at Brookwood RV Resort.
Road conditions to campgrounds: Access roads may present challenges. "Sites are generally level and close together. I was there mid-week and most of the short-term sites were empty," shares a visitor describing Brookwood RV Resort.
Seasonal sites vs. transient spots: Layout affects the camping experience. "Seasonal sites are largely separate from short-term campers and they are clean and well-kept. Short term sites, however, are near the road," explains a RVer at Brookwood.
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