Rancho Pines Campground

- 2854 Schroon River Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817

For New York residents searching for a reliable, amenity-rich, and authentically friendly camping experience in the Adirondack Park, Rancho Pines Campground in Chestertown, NY, presents itself as an ideal home base. This campground is celebrated by its visitors for successfully blending a deep appreciation for the great outdoors with a welcoming, neighborly atmosphere. If you value a sense of community, a perfect balance of rustic beauty and essential conveniences, and a central location for exploring the best of the Adirondacks, this riverside spot deserves a closer look.

Unlike many bare-bones wilderness sites, Rancho Pines is designed to be a comfortable destination for both RV and tent campers, as well as those looking for a charming cottage rental. It provides the amenities that make an extended stay easy and enjoyable, positioning you perfectly to launch an adventure—whether it’s a quick trip to Lake George, a day of hiking, or simply relaxing by the Schroon River that runs right behind the property. The general consensus from local visitors is clear: the management and community are exceptionally kind and helpful, creating an inviting environment that fosters a return visit.

Rancho Pines Campground is a well-established private camping facility located directly on the banks of the picturesque Schroon River, nestled within the six-million-acre expanse of the Adirondack Park. The campground offers approximately 54 well-maintained sites, catering to a mix of seasonal residents and short-term visitors, which contributes to the strong sense of community that customers consistently praise.

The core appeal of Rancho Pines is its family-friendly focus and strategic positioning. It is situated roughly between the scenic Brant and Loon Lakes, and crucially, is only minutes away from the famous Lake George. This central location ensures campers are never far from major recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to amusement parks and historic sites. While a few guests have noted some mild road noise from the nearby Interstate 87, it is generally considered a minor trade-off for the superior accessibility and convenience offered by this locale. It’s an easy-to-reach haven for families escaping the Downstate and Capital Region areas for a rejuvenating break.

Rancho Pines Campground is a prime piece of Adirondack real estate, located in Chestertown, New York, a quaint town known as the "Gateway to the Adirondacks" for its convenient access to major arteries.

The physical address and general location are:

2854 Schroon River Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817, USA

Its accessibility is a significant benefit for New York campers:

• Easy Interstate Access: The campground is easily found just one mile south of Exit 25 off the Adirondack Northway (I-87), making the drive into the heart of the park straightforward for both RVs and cars.
• Proximity to Major Destinations: It serves as an excellent central hub for touring the region. Lake George Village, with attractions like The Great Escape Fun Park, Fort William Henry, and the Million Dollar Beach, is a short and convenient drive away.
• Riverside Setting: The location directly on the Schroon River provides immediate access for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and the popular activity of river tubing right from the property's canoe launch site.
• Regional Lakes: Brant Lake and Loon Lake are both nearby, providing even more options for boating, swimming, and lakeside relaxation without the high traffic of Lake George.

Rancho Pines Campground provides a comprehensive list of services and utility hookups designed to maximize comfort and convenience for all types of campers:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The majority of RV sites offer water, electric (30-amp service), sewer, and even cable TV hookups.
• Cottage and Cabin Rentals: For non-RV users, the campground offers fully-equipped cottage and cabin rentals, including features like kitchens, full bathrooms, and screened porches.
• Clean Restroom Facilities: Modern, clean restrooms and hot showers are available to all guests, a highly-valued amenity, particularly for tent campers.
• Camp Store/Deli: An on-site store provides essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, propane, and sometimes small grocery items, ensuring guests don't have to leave the facility for minor necessities.
• Laundry Facilities: A dedicated laundry room allows for convenient mid-trip cleaning.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, providing a practical amenity for guests, although users should anticipate that coverage and speed may vary in a forested, Adirondack setting.
• Recreational Equipment Rentals: The campground offers rentals for tubes, canoes, row boats, and pedal karts, encouraging engagement with the river and grounds.

The recreational and social features of Rancho Pines are what truly set it apart as a vibrant, family-oriented destination for New York travelers.

• On-Site River Access: Direct access to the Schroon River is a major highlight, allowing for excellent fishing, river tubing, and paddling adventures starting right from the campsite.
• In-Ground Swimming Pool: A refreshing outdoor swimming pool is available for cooling off during the summer months, providing an alternative to lake swimming.
• Strong Community Focus: The campground is known for its incredible sense of community, with customers reporting super inviting and friendly neighbors and staff—a key element that fosters repeat visits.
• Recreational Activities: Beyond the pool and river, the campground offers a variety of amenities to keep families engaged, including basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, cornhole boards, and a recreation hall/game room.
• Campsite Comforts: Every campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring, facilitating traditional outdoor dining and marshmallow roasting under the Adirondack stars.
• Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: While one review noted the playground equipment is better suited for younger children (under 6 or 7), the overall atmosphere, with the pool, river access, and game room, is heavily focused on family fun.

For reservations, seasonal operating hours (typically May through October), and general inquiries about site availability or local conditions, the administrative and contact information is as follows:

Address:

2854 Schroon River Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817, USA

Phone: (518) 494-3645

Mobile Phone: +1 518-494-3645

Email inquiries can also typically be directed to the official address provided on their website for the most detailed response regarding specific needs like cabin rentals or large RV site requirements.

Rancho Pines Campground is exceptionally well-suited for New York State residents—especially families—seeking the quintessential Adirondack experience without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Its location in Chestertown is centrally positioned off the Northway, making it easily accessible from both downstate and western New York, minimizing travel stress and maximizing vacation time.

For the local user, the campground offers a dual advantage: immediate access to the tranquil Schroon River for on-site relaxation and easy driving access to regional attractions like Lake George, Gore Mountain, and numerous hiking trails. Visitors frequently highlight the incredible hospitality and strong community environment, often referring to the friendly staff—including the "absolute sweetheart" lady who runs the campground—as a major reason for their planned return. It provides a welcoming, fully equipped, and perfectly located hub that allows New Yorkers to truly settle in, relax, and explore the majestic beauty of the Adirondack Park at their own pace, making it a highly recommended destination for both fishing enthusiasts and family vacationers alike.

Rancho Pines Campground

2854 Schroon River Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817, USA