Camping sites near Willsboro, New York range from isolated mountain retreats to waterfront locations along Lake Champlain shorelines. The region experiences temperature fluctuations with summer highs averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months, but dropping significantly in higher elevation sites. Fall campers should prepare for nighttime temperatures that can dip below 40°F by mid-September at many Adirondack campgrounds.
What to do
Kayaking at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday: Located near the Ausable River, this campground provides water access for paddlers. "We had a great holiday weekend in this campground of Adirondack. It's nice to close to the river, also you can rent boats from the registration," notes Maggie H. The nearby swimming hole offers a natural alternative to the on-site pool.
Hiking at Mount Philo State Park Campground: This small park with only 8 campsites offers a short but rewarding hike to panoramic views. "Only 8 campsites, dispersed in the trees. $23/night. Picnic table and fire pit. Moderate cell service. Nice hikes and cool views of the area!" shares Kaelin P. The park's summit trail takes approximately 10-15 minutes from the campground area.
Biking at Grand Isle State Park Campground: Cyclists can ride directly from camp to Burlington without returning to their vehicles. "We biked to this park from Burlington via the Island Line Trail. It was a super trip. The lakeside lean-to was awesome," writes John L. The trail includes a bike ferry that connects segments across a small section of Lake Champlain.
What campers like
Waterfront access at North Beach Campground: Proximity to Lake Champlain with multi-use paths connecting to Burlington. "Right on the Burlington bike path and across the beach, there is plenty to do and easy access to town and other attractions. Other than the beach itself, this is not a resort campground but it is in an outdoor paradise with plenty to do in the area," reports Michael G.
Secluded sites at Shelburne Camping Area: Open year-round when most other campgrounds close for winter. "We didn't advance book, so we were in one of the last available spots. Site 2 is a flat, gravel back in, 30 amp, full hookup. We were near the pool and office," explains C O. Despite its proximity to town, sites maintain a sense of privacy.
Lakefront views at Apple Island Resort: Sites with premium views of Lake Champlain. "This campground is located in a central area between Burlington and north hero. The views of lake Champlain are amazing. Ex check in and plenty of amenities," says Ronald C. The resort features a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green for campers.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate between May and October, with very limited winter camping options. "We stayed over Memorial Day weekend and were surprised that the campground was not full. One thing we noticed was that all the campers were clustered together while they could have been spaced out so there was an empty site between us and our neighbors," observes Nancy W. at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
Waterfront site considerations: Not all waterfront sites provide direct water access. At Ausable Point Campground, "I was on a water spot but the only problem is u have to climb over logs to get to the water, from the riverside," mentions Debbie T. Beach sites may have steep drop-offs at some locations.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Only 8 campsites so try to book early. Nice trails that lead to scenic views of Lake Champlain. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes," advises Beau B. about Mount Philo State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Selecting campgrounds with swimming facilities. "Burlington is my favorite city by far, and this campground is right on the beach! You get the best of both worlds at this location. Biking into Burlington takes 5-10 minutes and you're also right on the beach of Lake Champlain," says Brittany R. about North Beach Campground.
Playground facilities: Button Bay State Park offers structured recreation areas for children. "This state park is so fun to camp at! It has a great playground for kids and a nice swimming pool! You can hike on the trail and Lake Champlain is right there!" recommends Debbie S.
Nature programs for children: Grand Isle State Park features educational opportunities. "They have a small place to put in kayaks and wade in water. They have a jumping pad on that side also. Both sides have the tractor driving around, pulling the kids around," reports Nicole S. about activities at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up placement awareness: At Apple Island Resort, "The hook-ups at our site (11AD) were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.' The cable yielded a number of channels but was not HD. Campground Wifi was good and our Verizon phone and hotspot worked well," notes Nancy W.
Site selection for water views: Different tiers of sites offer varying levels of lake views. "Some Platinum Plus sites are in the first row with unobstructed views; whereas, our site was three rows back. Not sure why they charge the same when our site was overlooking two rows of RVs," comments Nancy W. about Apple Island Resort's tiered pricing structure.
Dump station availability: Button Bay State Park offers dump stations but no full hookups. "Great campground. Everything from sunny meadow sites to more wooded private sites. Nice pool. No hookups but have a dump station," advises Barbara Y. for those requiring waste disposal services.
