Ponderosa Campsite

- 417 Town Line Rd, Chateaugay, NY 12920

For New Yorkers seeking a true escape to the scenic North Country, Ponderosa Campsite in Chateaugay offers an exceptional family-friendly destination. Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks, this large, welcoming campground provides a balanced blend of rustic nature and recreational comfort that appeals to campers of all types—from seasoned RV travelers to families pitching a tent for the first time.

Ponderosa Campsite is not just a place to park an RV or set up a tent; it is a community-focused retreat that embraces the spirit of the great outdoors. With over 200 sites spread across a generous landscape, the campground is well-known for its dedication to creating a peaceful atmosphere. It is a place where seasonal residents and short-term visitors alike find a welcoming environment, often managed by dedicated owners and staff who go the extra mile to ensure every guest feels taken care of.

A genuine “hidden gem” of the region, as many customers describe it, Ponderosa Campsite distinguishes itself by offering amenities that elevate the camping experience far beyond the basic site rental. From full utility hookups to unique on-site recreational features, it is designed to be a complete vacation spot. The seasonal operation, running typically from May 1st to September 30th, perfectly encapsulates the beautiful, temperate summer months in Northern New York, giving locals a dedicated window to enjoy this tranquil part of the state.

Ponderosa Campsite is conveniently located at 417 Town Line Rd, Chateaugay, NY 12920, USA. This placement in Franklin County puts it squarely in the heart of New York's North Country, minutes from the Canadian border and the vast, beautiful expanse of the Adirondack foothills.

Its location near the town of Chateaugay makes it an excellent gateway to exploring the greater region. For local New Yorkers traveling from the Albany area, Central New York, or even the suburban reaches of downstate, the drive itself is a journey into increasingly scenic and tranquil landscapes, signaling a true disconnection from the urban hustle. The accessibility is straightforward, typically involving travel via major north-south routes that lead into the Chateaugay/Malone area.

The geographic location places campers close to major natural attractions like the stunning Chateaugay Lakes, which offer premier opportunities for fishing, boating, and watersports, as well as the unique local landmark of High Falls Park and its spectacular 120-foot waterfall. For locals, this means having the vast recreational playground of the Adirondacks, with its hiking and water activities, easily within reach.

Ponderosa Campsite is committed to providing a fully equipped camping experience, offering a range of services and conveniences that cater to modern families and travelers. These amenities go well beyond the basics, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for all guests.

• Diverse Site Offerings: A total of 200 sites are available, including spacious options for RVs with up to 40 ft max length, and dedicated areas for tent camping. The campground features full hookups, partial hookups (electric/water), and water-only sites.
• Utility Hookups: The majority of the RV sites (approximately 190) offer full hookups, including water, sewer, and electric service (with 30 and limited 50-amp options), a significant convenience for RV owners. Unique to this site, electric hookup adapters are available for tent campers who wish to plug in phones or other small devices.
• Cabin and Shack Rentals: For those without their own equipment, the campsite offers rentals, including cozy small shacks for single campers and larger cabins for groups, providing an easy entry point to the camping lifestyle.
• Essential Facilities: Guests have access to multiple well-maintained bathhouses (four in total) equipped with clean, hot showers, as well as coin-operated laundry facilities.
• Camp Store and Supplies: The campsite provides the convenience of on-site ice and firewood sales, ensuring campers can easily stock up on essentials without leaving the property.
• Waste Management: A centralized dump station is available for RV and trailer owners.
• Rates and Availability: Monthly and seasonal rates are highly affordable and reasonable, which appeals strongly to local New Yorkers seeking a summer-long base camp. The operating season runs reliably from May 1st to September 30th.
• Pet Policy: Pets are welcome, provided they have proof of immunization and adhere to general campground rules.

The true draw of Ponderosa Campsite lies in its unique recreational features and commitment to family fun, making it stand out among North Country campgrounds.

• On-Site ATV Trail Riding: Ponderosa is notably one of the few campsites in New York State to offer dedicated ATV trails directly on its 200+ acres, providing an exceptional experience for registered and insured riders.
• Swimming Pond and Water Slide: A highlight for families is the pond area, which features a designated swimming beach and an inflatable water playground and slide, offering hours of safe, cool fun during the summer months.
• Family Recreation Areas: The grounds include three separate playground areas for children, a pavilion for gatherings, areas for activities like horseshoes and extreme frisbee, and a dedicated park area.
• Cozy and Peaceful Atmosphere: The layout provides a variety of settings, allowing campers to choose between open sites near neighbors for a social experience or more secluded areas for enhanced privacy and tranquility.
• Direct Nature Access: The large property allows for beautiful nature walks and trails, with the surrounding area offering nearby fishing and hiking opportunities.
• Potential for Northern Lights Viewing: Due to its far northern latitude and minimal light pollution, the campsite occasionally offers the rare and spectacular opportunity to view the Northern Lights, a unique natural highlight for New York campers.

Planning your Northern New York adventure is simple with the contact details provided below. We recommend reaching out in advance to secure your spot, especially for seasonal or cabin rentals.

Address: 417 Town Line Rd, Chateaugay, NY 12920, USA

Phone: (518) 497-6430

Mobile Phone: +1 518-497-6430

The dedicated ownership and management team, including long-time figures like the owner Walt and right-hand man Pat, are committed to personal service and ensuring all guests are taken care of, reflecting the strong, friendly local business ethic of the North Country.

Ponderosa Campsite is perfectly suited for local New Yorkers because it offers a full-featured, affordable, and accessible family vacation experience right here in our state. For those living in the more developed parts of New York, this Chateaugay location offers a genuine geographical and mental reset—a place to see the stars clearly, breathe the fresh air of the Adirondack foothills, and let the kids play safely.

The combination of rare amenities like on-site ATV trails, the fun water slide, and the strong community feel makes it a compelling choice for multi-day and seasonal campers. The staff's reputation for being accommodating and ensuring the maintenance of the grounds, despite its size, provides a reliable and welcoming environment. If you are a New York resident looking for a seasonal home-away-from-home or a peaceful yet activity-rich spot for a memorable week in the summer, Ponderosa Campsite is a truly excellent, locally-vetted option that promises a memorable and relaxing escape.

Ponderosa Campsite

417 Town Line Rd, Chateaugay, NY 12920, USA