RV travelers road-tripping throughout New York should plan to make a pit-stop at Northampton Beach Campground. This popular campground is nestled on the shore of an expansive man-made reservoir which draws adventurers from all over to fish, paddle, swim, hike, and picnic. No matter what your camping crew likes to do, they'll find plenty of activities here to keep busy for the whole trip!
Whether you're looking to rough it in the woods or relax on the lakeshore, Northampton Beach Campground offers more than 200 wooded and lakefront sites complete with scenic views everywhere you look. Cast your line into the fish-filled waters of Great Sacandaga Lake in search of dinner, then cook your catch at one of the picnic areas as you swap stories of the day's adventures with your fellow campers. Looking for something a little more exciting? Check out the events calendar for information on annual fishing tournaments, nature programs, and even boat races!
Northampton Beach Campground is just one of dozens of campgrounds located throughout the vast Adirondack Park Preserve. Spanning more than two million acres, this protected area is home to all sorts of species, from docile deer and river otters to the not-so-cuddly creatures, like bears, coyotes, and moose. While there are no wildlife concerns specific to Northampton Beach Campground, overnight guests should always practice standard safety measures. Secure any scented items, including food and toiletries, in your motorhome or vehicle.
Standard vehicles and motorhomes up to 40 feet long can easily navigate the park's internal roads. Northampton Beach Campground is just south of two general stores, so overnight guests are within walking distance of provisions. The town of Mayfield, located a short drive southeast on Highway 30, also offers gas, groceries, eateries, sports outfitters, and a bait shop.
Campers will find two parking areas at Northampton Beach Campground. One is located near the picnic area, just below the entrance booth, while the other can be found by the beach and boat launch area.
Reservations aren't required at campgrounds managed by New York's Department of Environmental Conservation. However, booking in advance is highly recommended for weekend stays -- despite the large number of campsites available, this is a popular spot that gets crowded in the summer!
Equipped with more than 220 sites for tent and RV campers, Northampton Beach Campground has more than enough space for your motorhome! Don't expect to find any hookups to water, sewer, or electricity here -- Northampton Beach Campground is best equipped for smaller motorhomes and trailers under 40 feet long.
Amenities at Northampton Beach Campground include pristine restroom and shower facilities, drinking water, a dump station and recycling center, and several picnic areas equipped with tables and grills. Generator use is permitted for up to five hours a day and between certain times -- check with park staff for details.
Although reservations are not required, campers who prefer a waterfront site during the peak season would be wise to reserve in advance. Only 12 sites are accessible for guests with disabilities, so be sure to book your site in advance if you require an accessible site. All guests at Northampton Beach Campground must obtain a camping permit before occupying their site.
Want to bring your four-legged friend on your camping trip? Canine companions are welcome to accompany you, provided they're leashed, well-behaved, and cleaned up after.
Avid anglers, don't forget to pack your rod and reel in the RV! (And your New York fishing license, too, of course.) Cast out into Great Sacandaga Lake and you just might reel in a sunfish or bass! Pike, pickerel, bullhead, and walleye are just a few of the other species biting at this popular fishing destination!
If you've got kid campers with you, there's no need to worry about swimming safety -- the sandy beach at Northampton Campground is guarded from June to early September. You'll need to contact the campground directly for more information on operating times.
Discover a different view of the Adirondacks from the 30-mile expanse of Great Sacandaga Lake. Boating is one of the most popular activities at Northampton Beach Campground. Watercraft of all kinds, including motorized boats which are free of nuisance species, are welcome to hit the lake from the campground's boat launch. Those without their own craft can rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat right on-site!
Fitness fanatics looking for a serious challenge will find one just outside Northampton Beach Campground! Native New Yorkers will no doubt know the Northville-Lake Placid Trail, a whopper of a route that runs more than 130 miles from -- you guessed it! -- Northville to Lake Placid. Hike a stretch of the trail and enjoy up-close encounters with the flora and fauna of the Adirondack region.
The Adirondack Park Preserve is a vital habitat for local wildlife, and the Junior Naturalist program at Northampton Beach Campground is a great way to teach your kid campers about conservation through fun games. Children between the ages of five and 13 (and their parents) are welcome to sign up, and they'll earn a cute patch upon completion! Contact the campground directly for more information.
Enjoy lunch with lake views at Northampton Beach Campground. The picnic area and pavilion provide plenty of space to chow down on sandwiches and snacks, or you can use the grills for a heartier al fresco meal. After an intimate family picnic, walk over to the nearby swimming area or boat rental facility to resume your Adirondack adventure!