Monty's Bay Campsites

- 715 Lake Shore Rd, West Chazy, NY 12992

Welcome to the essential guide for New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape into nature—specifically, to the beautiful shores of Lake Champlain. For decades, locals and visitors alike have cherished the experience offered by Monty's Bay Campsites, a family-owned retreat nestled in the peaceful hamlet of West Chazy. This is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it's a dedicated recreational hub that promises relaxation, family fun, and unparalleled access to one of the region's most stunning natural assets.

Established by the Bechard family in 1963, Monty's Bay Campsites has evolved from a small venture into a comprehensive recreational destination, now boasting over 125 campsites and an adjacent marina. It operates seasonally, typically from May 1st to October 1st (or sometimes mid-October, depending on the year), perfectly capturing the best of the Upstate New York summer and fall seasons. The blend of a traditional, friendly campground atmosphere with significant modern amenities—including a swimming pool, laundry, and a convenience store—ensures a stay that is both authentic and comfortable. The management's ongoing involvement, including children and grandchildren of the original founders, speaks to a commitment to quality and a welcoming community feel, which is paramount for a truly great camping experience.

The campsites themselves are generally well-regarded by patrons for their size and for providing essential utilities, with many sites offering water and electricity. While some older, transient sites may occasionally show signs of wear, a consistent point of praise from the community has been the quality and cleanliness of the main facilities, such as the bathhouse and the overall tidiness of the grounds. The availability of ice cream and other supplies at the office on a hot day is a small, but often appreciated, detail that highlights the focus on guest convenience. This is a destination where the staff strives to be helpful, friendly, and accommodating, contributing significantly to a positive and stress-free vacation environment.

One aspect to note, as with any high-demand campground, is that clear communication is key to a smooth reservation. While one user mentioned initial uncertainty about confirmation, the general consensus points to an office staff that is otherwise great and professional in their day-to-day interactions. Visitors should always ensure they clarify their specific site needs—such as space for extra tents—during the booking process to avoid unexpected charges upon arrival. Transparency about site conditions, especially with hookups, is also a reasonable expectation for any new or returning guest.

Monty's Bay Campsites is situated at 715 Lake Shore Rd, West Chazy, NY 12992, USA. For New York residents, particularly those in the northern and central parts of the state, the location is ideal. It’s nestled directly on the shores of Monty Bay on Lake Champlain, providing immediate waterfront access and stunning panoramic views of both the New York and Vermont shorelines and mountains. This position offers a quarter-mile of shoreline, making it an exceptional spot for water enthusiasts.

The campground’s accessibility is a significant draw. It is strategically located only about 4 miles from Exit 40 on Interstate 87 (The Adirondack Northway), making the drive exceptionally straightforward for those traveling from downstate or other parts of the North Country. Furthermore, it is a convenient, short 15-minute drive from the city of Plattsburgh, New York. Plattsburgh offers a full range of retail shopping, grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential conveniences that campers might need to restock or enjoy during a longer stay. For those interested in international excursions, the U.S.-Canadian border is only about 12 miles north, making it a viable base for a two-nation vacation. Its setting allows for a true wilderness feel while keeping modern comforts and necessities within easy reach.

Monty's Bay Campsites provides a comprehensive array of services designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of all campers:

• Camp-Style Accommodations: Options for RV, tent sites, and even a two-bedroom cabin rental available through Airbnb.
• Full Utility Hook-ups: Many sites offer 30-amp electric, water, and sewer hook-ups, ensuring a comfortable RV experience.
• Gilbert Brook Marina: An associated, adjacent facility with 168 boat slips, 102 boat moorings, and an on-site boat launch ramp, perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
• On-site Convenience: A dedicated office and convenience store stocking essentials like ice, ice cream, and other camping necessities.
• Sanitary Facilities: A modern, clean, and often-praised tiled bathhouse with hot showers and a laundry facility.
• Waste Management: A centralized dump station and convenient pump-outs for RVs.
• Connectivity: Available Wi-Fi connection, typically accessible at the main office area.
• Safety and Security: On-site management and security personnel.
• Pet Policy: Pets are permitted, provided they are kept on a leash.
• Fire Amenities: Fireplaces and firewood are available for traditional campfire enjoyment.

The experience at Monty's Bay is defined by its outstanding features and recreational offerings:

• Waterfront Access: Direct access to Lake Champlain with a quarter-mile of shoreline and a sandy swimming beach area for safe, family-friendly fun.
• Swimming Pool: A clean, refreshing swimming pool that is a popular gathering spot on hot summer days, often noted for being very clean.
• Recreational Facilities: Includes play fields, dedicated playgrounds for children, bocce ball, and volleyball courts.
• Planned Activities: The campground frequently hosts a variety of special events and activities to build community spirit, such as Halloween celebrations, Christmas in July, movie nights, carnival day, dances, and ice cream socials.
• Fishing and Boating: Exceptional opportunities for fishing tournaments, pleasure boating, and enjoying the open waters of Monty Bay and Lake Champlain.
• Scenery: Breathtaking, low-stress environment with panoramic views of the Lake Champlain basin and surrounding mountain ranges.
• Proximity to Attractions: Close to regional highlights like Point Au Roche State Park for hiking and wildlife, and only a short drive to the amenities and dining options of Plattsburgh.

For reservations, seasonal rates, or inquiries about specific site availability, interested parties should use the following contact details:

Address: 715 Lake Shore Rd, West Chazy, NY 12992, USA

Phone: (518) 846-7342

Mobile Phone: +1 518-846-7342

For anyone in the New York region looking for a high-quality, accessible, and truly enriching outdoor experience, Monty's Bay Campsites stands out as a prime destination. This campground represents the ideal Northern New York retreat, offering a seamless blend of pristine nature and thoughtful convenience.

The value proposition for locals is clear: you get a beautiful, family-managed lakeside setting without the extensive travel time required for more remote destinations. The direct access to Lake Champlain—a major recreational feature of the state—via the sandy beach and Gilbert Brook Marina, positions it as a haven for water sports, fishing, and simple waterfront relaxation. The full hookups, clean, modern facilities, and on-site conveniences like the store and pool mean you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying your vacation.

Furthermore, its location near Plattsburgh provides an essential safety net of services, from medical facilities to diverse dining and shopping, which is often reassuring for families. Whether you are a dedicated angler practicing for a tournament, a family looking for a safe spot for children to swim and play, or an RV owner seeking a base to explore the Adirondack Coast, Monty's Bay Campsites is perfectly suited. It’s an authentic, well-supported piece of Upstate New York that is ready to be your next favorite camping tradition, providing a friendly community atmosphere and the chance to create lasting memories on the magnificent shores of Lake Champlain.

Monty's Bay Campsites

715 Lake Shore Rd, West Chazy, NY 12992, USA