Ausable Point Campground

For New Yorkers seeking a picturesque and accessible outdoor escape on the pristine waters of Lake Champlain, Ausable Point Campground in Peru stands as an appealing choice. Operated as a New York State Park campground, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, direct beach access, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Situated on a point that extends into Lake Champlain, this campground is a beloved spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of lakeside camping while enjoying the convenience of well-maintained facilities.

Ausable Point Campground is renowned for its natural sand shoreline and gentle slope into the lake, providing an inviting environment for swimming and water activities. While it offers a fantastic setting for outdoor enthusiasts, potential campers should be aware of specific park regulations, such as generator use, to ensure a pleasant stay for everyone. This article will provide a detailed overview of Ausable Point Campground, covering its strategic location, the services it provides, its notable features, and why it's a particularly suitable destination for locals across New York looking for their next adventure in the Adirondack region.

Ausable Point Campground is strategically located at 3346 Lakeshore Drive, Peru, NY 12972, USA. This prime address positions it directly on the western shore of Lake Champlain, just south of Plattsburgh. For New Yorkers, this location offers a convenient escape to the Adirondack Coast, providing easy access from various parts of the state. The drive to Peru along scenic routes sets the tone for a relaxing getaway, making it an ideal destination for both weekend trips and longer vacations.

The campground's most distinguishing locational feature is its unique position on a point that protrudes into Lake Champlain. This provides many campsites with stunning waterfront views and direct access to a natural sand beach. This immediate proximity to the lake makes it incredibly convenient for swimming, sunbathing, and launching small watercraft. Furthermore, Ausable Point Campground borders the Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area. This adjacent natural area offers additional recreational opportunities, including a hiking trail and water access for canoeists and sea kayakers eager to explore the diverse ecosystem. The proximity to local towns like Plattsburgh also means that while campers can enjoy the secluded beauty of nature, they are still within reach of essential services, dining options, and cultural attractions, providing a balanced experience for all visitors.

• 123 Single-Family Campsites: Ausable Point Campground provides a large number of sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grate for cooking.
• No Electric/Water/Sewer Hookups: It's important to note that Ausable Point Campground generally operates as a rustic campground, meaning individual campsites do not typically offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campers should plan accordingly for a more traditional camping experience.
• Hot Showers: Clean shower buildings are available, providing hot showers for campers to refresh after a day of outdoor activities.
• Flush Toilets: Well-maintained flush toilets are provided in the comfort stations throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Water Fill-up Station: Campers can access potable water at designated fill-up stations within the campground.
• Car-Top Boat Launch: A convenient launch area is available for canoes, kayaks, and other car-top boats, allowing easy access to Lake Champlain for paddling adventures.
• Swimming Beach: The campground features a natural sand beach with a gentle slope into Lake Champlain, providing a designated and often supervised bathing area (lifeguards on duty during specific hours).
• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas are available for day use visitors and campers, equipped with tables.
• Recycling Station: Facilities for recycling are provided, encouraging environmentally responsible practices. Clear plastic bags are required for recycling.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase at the campground office or ranger station.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater might host educational programs or evening presentations, though specific events vary by season.

• Natural Sand Beach: A standout feature is the beautiful natural sand shoreline of Lake Champlain, offering a rare and inviting swimming and lounging experience directly from many campsites. The shallow waters near the shore are particularly family-friendly.
• Direct Lake Champlain Access: The campground's unique location on a point allows for extensive lake access, providing opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, windsurfing, and more.
• Adjacent Wildlife Management Area: Bordering the Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area, the campground offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially bird-watching (including herons, ducks, and bald eagles), and short, easy hiking trails.
• Scenic Views: Campers can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding natural beauty, including sunrises and sunsets over the water.
• Rustic Charm: As a New York State Park campground, it maintains a rustic nature, appealing to those who prefer a less commercialized camping experience closer to nature.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a swimming beach, playground (as per external sources), and plenty of open space, it's a popular destination for families looking to create outdoor memories.
• Proximity to Plattsburgh: While offering a natural retreat, the campground is close enough to Plattsburgh for convenient access to supplies, restaurants, and other city amenities.
• Car-top Boat Launch: Ideal for paddlers, the on-site car-top boat launch makes it easy to explore Lake Champlain by canoe or kayak.

As a New York State Park campground, Ausable Point Campground's pricing and any available discounts typically adhere to state park policies rather than offering frequent, broad commercial promotions. However, New York State Parks often have specific programs or ways to save for locals:

• Empire Pass: New York residents can purchase an Empire Pass, which provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most New York State Parks, including Ausable Point. While this doesn't reduce camping fees, it eliminates day-use fees if you plan on visiting other state parks during your trip or returning to Ausable Point for day use.
• Senior Citizen Discounts: New York State Parks may offer reduced camping rates for senior citizens (New York State residents aged 62 or older) during off-peak periods. It's advisable to inquire about this when booking.
• Military Discounts: Some New York State Parks may offer discounts for active military personnel and veterans. Always confirm eligibility directly with the campground.
• Off-Peak Season Rates: Camping rates are generally lower during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to the peak summer months. This can be a great way for locals to enjoy the park at a more affordable price.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any potential special offers, specific seasonal rates, or eligibility for discounts, it is always recommended to contact Ausable Point Campground directly through the provided phone numbers or to check the official New York State Parks website for the most current booking information and policies. Reservations for New York State Parks can often be made through Reserve America.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Ausable Point Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 3346 Lakeshore Drive, Peru, NY 12972, USA
• Phone: (518) 561-7080
• Mobile Phone: +1 518-561-7080

It is highly advisable to contact the campground directly, especially for questions regarding site availability, specific amenities, or current park rules, including those concerning generator use. Booking in advance, particularly for popular summer weekends, is strongly recommended to secure your preferred campsite.

For residents of New York, Ausable Point Campground offers a truly compelling option for a memorable camping experience, especially for those who appreciate lakeside tranquility and easy access to outdoor recreation. Its location on Lake Champlain, with a natural sand beach right at the campground, is a significant draw, providing immediate opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the water. This means New Yorkers don't have to travel far to find a pristine waterfront escape, making it ideal for convenient weekend getaways or longer family vacations.

The rustic nature of the campground, consistent with New York State Park standards, appeals to those seeking a genuine connection with nature, away from the more commercialized camping environments. While the lack of individual site hookups means a more traditional camping experience, the availability of clean hot showers and flush toilets ensures comfort. The adjacent Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area provides excellent opportunities for bird-watching and easy hikes, adding another layer of natural exploration right on your doorstep.

It's important for locals to note the campground's policy on generators (limited to specific hours: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, and subject to staff discretion if deemed too loud). Planning around these hours or opting for a more "quiet" camping setup can enhance the experience for everyone. Despite this, the overall charm, the beautiful natural setting, and the sheer accessibility to Lake Champlain and its surrounding natural areas make Ausable Point Campground an exceptional choice for New Yorkers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of their home state.

Ausable Point Campground

3346 Lakeshore Drive, Peru, NY 12972, USA