Cumberland Bay State Park
00 review152 Cumberland Head Rd., Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States
Cumberland Bay State Park
$7.00 - $42.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$42.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Daily access fee varies between $6-$8 USD depending on the season. Overnight camping rates are $42 USD per night. Additional fees may apply for firewood ($5 per bag) and ice ($3 per bag).
About this campground
Discover your perfect lakeside escape at Cumberland Bay State Park, where pristine natural sand beaches meet endless outdoor adventures. This beloved destination invites families to spread out across expansive picnic grounds, set up camp under starlit skies, and enjoy everything from spirited games on well-maintained playing fields to peaceful moments at the fully accessible playground. As autumn arrives, the park transforms into a training ground for dedicated cross-country runners who come to challenge themselves along scenic trails while leaves paint the landscape in brilliant hues.
Cumberland Bay State Park offers diverse camping options, including tent and RV sites, with no cabin or glamping accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's magical transformation through the seasons, where each visit offers its own unique charm. September brings a refreshing change with crisp, invigorating breezes off Lake Champlain and cozy evenings that dip into the low 50s—perfect for gathering around the campfire with hot cocoa. Late summer and fall reveal the park's quieter personality, offering peaceful camping experiences away from summer crowds, where you can truly connect with nature and enjoy the serene atmosphere that makes Cumberland Bay a hidden gem during these tranquil months.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled along Lake Champlain's picturesque western shore, Cumberland Bay State Park showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The crown jewel is its sweeping beach where soft sand meets crystal-clear, shallow waters—a natural playground where children can splash safely while parents relax nearby. Gaze across the shimmering lake to catch breathtaking views of Vermont's enchanting Champlain Islands floating on the horizon. The park's diverse landscape unfolds from sandy shores to spacious open meadows, creating a stunning backdrop for unforgettable outdoor memories.
Geological RegionCumberland Bay State Park stands as a unique treasure within the Thousand Island State Park Region, gracing the shores of majestic Lake Champlain. This geological wonder features one of the area's most impressive natural sand beaches—a rare gift shaped by centuries of wind and water. The expansive sandy shoreline and surrounding picnic grounds tell the story of ancient glacial movements that carved this spectacular meeting place between land and water, creating the perfect setting for recreation and relaxation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is described as highly accessible, including accessible campsites, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some large enough for two tents and two cars. However, some users found the sites small or difficult for larger RVs to back into.
Sites PrivacyMany users noted the lack of privacy due to the open layout and close proximity of sites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake offer excellent views but are more exposed to wind and lack privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 continuous nights, after which a 48-hour break is required before re-registration.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites can accommodate up to two tents and one to two cars.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes open spaces with minimal privacy and a mix of sandy and grassy areas.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round camping availability, though specifics depend on seasonal conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Reserve America or by calling the RA Call Center at 1-800-456-2267.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is mentioned for single-night stays, but details about specific site counts or patterns are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyAny reservation departure dates outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be changed or canceled until 18 days after the reservation was made.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Campground activities include swimming, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, picnicking, and playing on the beach. "The beach is ultra-clean and great for families," a user wrote.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within 10 miles of the campground, offering diverse experiences.Fishing
Fishing is supported, with Lake Champlain offering opportunities for anglers.Swimming
Swimming areas are described as clean and shallow, making them suitable for children. Swimming is only allowed in lifeguarded areas, and the availability depends on staffing and water quality.Biking
Biking is popular within the campground and nearby. "Our kids loved riding their bikes all over," said one reviewer.Boating
Boating opportunities include canoeing, kayaking, and other non-motorized watercraft activities. Sailboarding and sail boating are also mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Lake Champlain and the surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for bird watching and general wildlife appreciation.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and playing on the wide, sandy shores of Lake Champlain. Some users mentioned the presence of algae in the water at times.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and sailboarding are popular activities at the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with firewood available for purchase at the park office.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM through 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites are close to roads, which can be noisy. Windy conditions near the lake can make camping challenging.
Active alertsSwimming may be prohibited without notice due to lifeguard coverage or water quality issues. Site renumbering changes were implemented for the 2022 season.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingRecycling is mandatory at this park, as noted in official information. However, some users reported a lack of recycling bins at certain locations.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the west shore of Lake Champlain with direct access to the beach and shallow waters.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention cramped campsites lacking privacy, noisy generators running 24/7, and music playing until late at night.
HostRanger station is available for assistance.
Campground Map
152 Cumberland Head Rd., Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States
Driving directionsLocated north of Plattsburgh on Route 314. 518-563-5240
The entrance is slightly off from what Google Maps takes you to, so some visitors went in the wrong way. The campground is accessible via Route 314 north of Plattsburgh.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cumberland Bay State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are varied, with numerous positive mentions of cleanliness and amenities. However, some voiced concerns about lack of privacy and crowded sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Beautiful campground on northern shore of Lake Champlain," "Clean and well-maintained facilities," and "Friendly staff and lifeguards."
Common Concerns
Users frequently mentioned the close proximity of campsites, lack of shade, and noise from nearby roads. Generators and music being used late into the night were also a recurring issue.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Avoid sites near the road for more peace and quiet; check swimming conditions as they may vary; and bring proof of rabies vaccination for pets.
Seasonal Insights
Late summer and early fall are noted as quieter times, with less crowded sites and cooler temperatures. Winter activities are not mentioned, and summer can be busy.
Camper Quotes
"The lapping of the waves is lovely," noted one user. Another mentioned, "It’s like you’re looking into the ocean, so beautiful."
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the water offer great views but can be windy, making tent camping difficult. Site 47 was sandy and spacious; site 78 had a good lake view but lacked privacy.
Accessibility Features
Accessible facilities, including restrooms, were praised, but one reviewer noted that pre-registration did not fully eliminate the need for in-person check-in.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with restrictions. Proof of rabies vaccination is required, and pets are not permitted on the beach or picnic areas. One user noted the park’s enforcement of pet rules.
Last updated August 10, 2025