The Silver Bay region of New York sits along the western shore of Lake George in the Adirondack Mountains, featuring elevations ranging from 320 feet at lake level to surrounding peaks exceeding 2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons can see overnight lows in the 30-40°F range. The region's terrain includes rocky shorelines, dense forests, and multiple connected ponds and lakes within relatively short driving distances.
What to do
Paddling network exploration: Putnam Pond Campground offers access to multiple connected waterways. "We spent a day on the ponds (Putnam & North Pond are connected) and it is beautiful. The water is cool, clean and beautiful," notes Michael G. The campground provides boat rentals or you can bring your own watercraft to explore.
Historic site visits: Fort Ticonderoga sits approximately 7 miles north of Rogers Rock and provides educational opportunities. "Ft Ticonderoga is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors," mentions Jean C. from Brookwood RV Resort.
Hiking trail network: Multiple hiking options extend from campgrounds into surrounding wilderness areas. "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 it's remnants," reports a visitor to Putnam Pond Campground.
What campers like
Lake access for fishing: Many sites provide direct water access for fishing without traveling. "We fished and kayaked right from our site," explains Rebecca D. at Half Moon Pond State Park Campground, noting the convenience of waterfront campsites.
Private island campsites: Some locations offer unique camping experiences on islands. "We have stayed here at the remote sites several times. Site roo5 is our favorite a private island all to yourself!" describes Tara F. about the remote island sites at Putnam Pond.
Site privacy levels: Campground designs vary significantly in how much separation exists between sites. "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," reports Nancy W. at Moose Hillock Camping Resorts.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "Cell service is iffy," notes Lauren S. at Rogers Rock Campground. Another camper at Lake Bomoseen KOA reported "NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect."
Seasonal site availability: Limited reservation windows exist for popular sites. "Last minute cancellations are a common occurrence though," reports Rebecca E. about Narrow Island Group campsites, which normally require booking 9 months in advance.
Weekday vs. weekend experiences: Crowd levels change dramatically based on day of week. "This place is packed on the weekends. If you want to avoid the rush of campers, definitely try to make the trip on a weekday," advises Carrie J. regarding camping patterns at Rogers Rock.
Tips for camping with families
Water amenities: Multiple swimming options exist beyond the main beaches. "There are three pools. A kiddie pool, a water slide pool and a larger pool that goes from 3 ft to 6 ft," describes Becca D. about Lake Bomoseen KOA's swimming facilities.
Pet-friendly swimming areas: While dogs aren't allowed on designated swimming beaches at most locations, alternatives exist for pet-friendly camping near Silver Bay, New York. "Several waterfront sites at Rogers Rock feature paths leading directly to the water where dogs can enjoy supervised lake access," notes Alexandra M. at Hearthstone Point Campground.
Indoor activity backup plans: Some campgrounds provide weather alternatives. Lake Bomoseen KOA features "arcade, indoor mini golf and even soft serve ice cream," according to Jason A., making it suitable for rainy day camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for varied site conditions depending on location. "Sites aren't particularly level or large," advises Jean C. about Rogers Rock, suggesting campers should bring adequate leveling equipment.
Utility limitations: Hook-up availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is a drought and they're on a well, so water conservation is essential," explains a recent visitor to Brookwood RV Resort, emphasizing the importance of monitoring water usage.
RV site selection strategies: Specific sites work better for larger rigs. "Roads in the park are confusing because none are parallel or perpendicular so we had to go slow just to make sure we didn't miss a turn in the RV. Luckily, the receptionist in the office highlighted the route we needed to take to get to our site which was very helpful," shares a visitor to Moose Hillock about navigating campground layouts.
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