One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the heart-stopping beauty of Upstate New York is by traveling in an RV. With a wealth of picturesque landscapes, ranging from breathtaking mountains and lush forests to serene lakes and cascading waterfalls, the region is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. 

In this blog, we will guide you through the best public and private RV campgrounds and introduce you to boondocking in Upstate New York.

Public RV Campgrounds In Upstate New York

Northampton Beach Campground

Located in the serene Adirondack Park near the Great Sacandaga Lake, the Northampton Beach Campground offers a spectacular beachside RV camping experience. It features more than 200 spacious sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. 

The campground offers a boat launch, fishing access, hiking trails, and spectacular views. The nearby town of Lake Pleasant offers shopping and dining opportunities, adding a dash of convenience to your wilderness getaway.

Watkins Glen State Park

Famed for its enchanting Gorge Trail, which boasts 19 waterfalls, Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit destination. The park has an RV campground that accommodates vehicles up to 40 feet long, offering amenities such as electric hookups, restrooms, showers, and a dumping station. 

Within the park, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and hunting. It’s conveniently located near the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, offering a chance to explore the local viticulture.

Letchworth State Park

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is a nature enthusiast’s dream. The park’s campground offers a choice of wooded and open sites with electricity and dumping stations. 

Amenities include picnic tables, grills, and comfort stations. The park’s 66 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and horseback riding opportunities are sure to keep you busy.

Private RV Resorts In Upstate New York

Lake George RV Park

Situated in the heart of the Adirondack region, the Lake George RV Park is a luxurious RV resort offering top-notch amenities. With full hookup sites, free Wi-Fi, heated pools, and a trolley service to Lake George village, it’s a blend of comfort and convenience. 

Enjoy biking trails, fishing, and paddle boating within the park, or explore the bustling village for dining and shopping options.

Brennan Beach RV Resort

Positioned on the shores of Lake Ontario, the Brennan Beach RV Resort is a paradise for beach lovers. The resort boasts full hookup sites, a swimming pool, a playground, and beach access. Nearby attractions include the Selkirk Shores State Park and the Safe Haven Museum.

Copake Camping Resort

Nestled between the Taconic Mountains and the Berkshire Hills, the Copake Camping Resort is a family-friendly destination. The resort features full hookup sites, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and a heated pool. The nearby Copake Lake offers fishing and boating, while the surrounding mountains are ideal for hiking and bird watching.

Boondocking In Upstate New York

Finger Lakes National Forest

Between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, you’ll find the only national forest in New York. This area allows dispersed camping, perfect for boondockers seeking solitude. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the Finger Lakes Wine Country.

Adirondack Park

With over six million acres, Adirondack Park has plenty of opportunities for boondocking. Spend your days hiking, canoeing, or wildlife watching in this expansive wilderness.

Green Ridge State Forest

The largest contiguous forest in the state, Green Ridge, offers an abundance of spots for boondocking. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking, hunting, and bird watching. Nearby, the town of Cohocton offers amenities and a peek into local life.

Wrapping Up

Whether you prefer the convenience of a fully-equipped RV resort, the natural beauty of a state park, or the solitude of a boondocking site, Upstate New York offers an array of options to fit your RV camping style. 

Pack your adventurous spirit and set your RV rental’s GPS towards these incredible destinations for an unforgettable experience. Happy camping!

FAQs

Q: What is the best time to visit these RV campgrounds in Upstate New York?

A: The best time to visit largely depends on the activities you’re interested in. For hiking, fishing, and camping, the summer months from June to August are ideal. For those interested in fall foliage, late September to early October offers a stunning display of colors.

Q: Are these campgrounds pet-friendly?

A: Many campgrounds in Upstate New York are pet-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check the specific regulations of the campground you plan to visit. Some may require leashes or have designated pet areas.

Q: Are there any size restrictions for RVs in these campgrounds?

A: Size restrictions vary from campground to campground. Some accommodate large RVs up to 40 feet, while others may have smaller lots. Always check the campground’s guidelines before you plan your visit.

Q: What is boondocking?

A: Boondocking, also known as dry camping or wild camping, refers to camping in an RV without hookups to water, electricity, or sewer services. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and solitude, but requires careful planning and preparation.