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Ausable Point
Overview
Ausable Point Campground offers a unique blend of lakeside beauty and riverfront adventure on the shores of Lake Champlain. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, this facility provides a rustic escape where the fresh breeze from the lake meets the calm waters of the Ausable River delta. The park is widely recognized for its scenic sandy shoreline and preserved natural atmosphere, making it a staple destination for travelers exploring the northeastern edge of the Adirondack Park. It serves as a peaceful retreat for those who want to immerse themselves in the quiet rhythms of the water.
Location & Surroundings
Located in Peru, New York, the park occupies a narrow peninsula surrounded by the vast expanse of Lake Champlain to the east and the mouth of the Ausable River to the west. The environment is characterized by lush wetlands and a long, sandy beach that is rare for the region. On clear days, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Vermont’s Green Mountains rising across the water. The surrounding Lake Champlain Valley offers a diverse landscape that transitions from fertile farmland to dense forests, providing a stunning backdrop for any RV journey.
Amenities & Park Features
The facility focuses on a traditional, nature-first camping experience rather than a high-tech resort feel. While the park does not offer electrical or sewer hookups, it provides 123 spacious sites, many of which can accommodate large RVs. Key features include a guarded swimming beach and a dedicated boat launch, allowing easy access for both motorized boats and kayaks. Guests have access to clean bathhouses equipped with hot showers and flush toilets. For those traveling with families, the park includes a playground and several shaded picnic areas featuring charcoal grills for afternoon cookouts.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The most iconic local attraction is Ausable Chasm, located just a few miles away. Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, it offers dramatic stone formations, hiking trails, and river rafting. Nature lovers should also visit the Wickham Marsh Wildlife Management Area, which borders the park and provides exceptional birdwatching and photography opportunities. For a bit of local history and commerce, the city of Plattsburgh is a short drive north, offering museums, local breweries, and essential services for restocking your RV supplies before heading deeper into the mountains.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize natural beauty and water access over modern hookups. It is perfectly suited for RVers who enjoy kayaking, fishing, or beachcombing in a tranquil environment. Because the sites are primitive, it is a favorite for travelers who are comfortable with dry camping or have self-contained setups. Families who want to disconnect from screens and spend their days swimming and hiking will find Ausable Point to be a quintessential New York camping experience that focuses on the great outdoors.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Josee Royer
I will add some context before beginning: my husband (unlike me), is not easily disgusted. So when he says it's bad, I know that it's REALLY bad. This was our first time here. Booked two nights online and there were plenty of sites available, all with the same description and claiming to be partially shaded. Chose one randomly. Arrived at the park to discover that our site had no shade and the empty one next to it is almost completely shaded. It was the beginning of July, it was HOT and we do not have AC. Went back to the check-in desk to ask if we could move sites. Was told no and that I would have to reserve it online and then apply for a refund for my current site. Spent almost 30 minutes on phone with the reservation center because I was unable to book two sites at once (since I had a reservation for the original site). The wonderful agent at the reservation center was finally book it for me. Returned to check-in, filled out a paper applying for my refund and then finally got settled in. Beach was slighty disappointing. We often go to Cumberland Bay State Park and, although it is the same lake, the beach is much nicer there. The view is beautiful, but the water was filled with branches and was muddy. I ended not going swimming even though it was very hot. The restrooms are old and in great need of renovations. There is one shower block with 8 showers for the entire campground. When we went, 3 of the showers were occupied, 3 did not have functioning lights and the last 2 were filthy: hair, mud, wrappers, used bars of soap, a used sanitary pad... We ended up showering in the dark because those showers were slightly cleaner. Remember, the park is maybe half full, so I shudder to think what it would look like at full capacity. We ended up leaving the next day because my husband refused to use the showers a second time. This was two months ago, I have not received my refund and I don't expect to anymore. Basically, I ended up paying for 4 nights but only staying one. EDIT (one week after original post): Just received a letter saying that their records indicate that, according to their records, I have stayed the duration of my stay and I am therefore uneligible for a refund.
Cynthia Santiago
Such an amazingly beautiful park. Staff is courteous, it's usually pretty quiet and relaxing. The beach is wonderful and they have so many spots to fish or just look at nature. Would recommend to everyone!
Brian Mickle
Nice place to camp and access to beach is very nice. Very kid friendly. Well positioned between Lake Placid and Burlington. Only issue was large swaths of poison ivy in between sites, had to be very cautious
Julie C
Great campground for tents or small campers. The sites do not have electric and some are kind of small. Bathroom facilities are dated, but this is a good no frills campground. If you’re lucky enough, you can book a waterfront site that has beach and lake access. The view from those sites are incredible!!! The beach in the day use area is huge, with picnic tables under trees, and an access path for wheelchairs. Note that there are no lifeguards at this beach.
ROOF TOP CAT
GREAT,GREAT,GREAT. RIGHT ON THE CHOMP, WELL KEPT PARK, CLEAN, SANDY BEACHES, FRESH AIR. WANNA CAMP THERE SOON. THANK YOU PARK ATTENDENTS FOR THE HELP.