Point Au Roche State Park
00 review19 Camp Red Cloud Road, Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States
Point Au Roche State Park
$0.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Entry is typically $7 via St. Armand’s Road for access to trails leading to Middle Bay and Treadwell Bay beachfront. Entry via Camp Red Cloud Road is free.
About this campground
Nestled along the northwestern shores of Lake Champlain, Point Au Roche State Park beckons visitors with 856 acres of diverse landscapes where open meadows give way to dense forests. This hidden gem may be smaller than its neighboring state parks, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. From sunrise paddlers gliding across glassy waters to families discovering hidden trails through the woods, Point Au Roche offers an intimate connection with nature alongside modern recreational amenities that make every visit memorable.
Point Au Roche State Park does not have dedicated camping facilities.
Historical SignificanceLong before Point Au Roche became a state park, these shores echoed with the laughter of families who built their summer camps along Long Point, creating generations of memories in this special place. The land holds stories of those early recreational pioneers whose rustic retreats dotted the shoreline, establishing a tradition of lakeside gatherings that continues today. When the state transformed this beloved getaway into a public park, it preserved not just the natural beauty but also the spirit of community and connection that has always defined this corner of Lake Champlain.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives at Point Au Roche like a gentle awakening, with crisp mornings perfect for bird watching and warm afternoons ideal for setting up camp. As summer peaks, the park transforms into a vibrant sanctuary where morning mists rise from the lake and afternoon breezes provide welcome relief from the humid days. Late summer brings golden hours that seem to stretch forever, painting the lake in brilliant hues. When winter wraps the park in its snowy embrace, the landscape becomes a wonderland of ice formations along the shore and frost-covered trees, while autumn's moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for those seeking solitude among the changing leaves.
Natural Features and SceneryPoint Au Roche reveals nature's artistry in every season, where sprawling marshlands teem with life and ancient forests whisper secrets in the wind. Each week brings a new wildflower show - from delicate spring beauties to robust summer blooms - creating an ever-changing tapestry of color. The park serves as a stage for nature's most magnificent performers: industrious beavers engineer their watery domains, majestic eagles soar overhead on thermal currents, ospreys dive with precision into the lake's depths, and countless waterfowl create a symphony of calls across the wetlands. The shoreline itself tells a story of wind and water, with secluded coves and rocky outcrops that invite exploration.
Geological RegionPoint Au Roche occupies a fascinating ecological crossroads where Lake Champlain's northwestern shoreline creates a mosaic of distinct habitats. Here, the landscape transitions seamlessly from sun-drenched open spaces to cool forest groves, while extensive marshlands bridge the gap between land and water. This unique positioning has sculpted a terrain where rocky points meet sandy beaches, where wetland channels wind through cattails, and where the ancient geology of the Champlain Valley reveals itself in every weathered stone and carved shoreline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTrails are mostly flat and accessible to individuals with limited mobility. Roads within the park are also flat and well-paved, making them suitable for walking and potentially for wheelchairs at the discretion of the user and equipment.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTrails like Ram’s Head and Long Point are recommended for scenic overlooks and ease of hiking.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The park provides diverse recreational activities suitable for all seasons. These include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, boating, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Educational programs are also hosted at the Nature Center.
Hiking
The park offers a variety of trails for hiking, including the P Walker and Long Point trails. These trails wind through interesting habitats, ranging from forests to marshes to shorelines. User reviews note the trails are mostly flat and accessible, though some mention a lack of clear signage.Fishing
Fishing is supported year-round, including ice fishing during winter. A user review by Good Grizzle mentions, "This is a great place to go fishing all year. From the lake side, the marsh side and the river!"Swimming
The park features a clean, sandy beach for swimming. Multiple reviews praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the swimming area, with Luisa Sherman noting, "Point beach was beautiful. Again very very shallow a far way out. Swim area maybe gets to 24 inches deep." Lifeguards are on duty at the swimming area.Biking
Biking is available on the park's trails. No specific details about terrain or trail difficulty are provided.Boating
The park supports boating with a boat launch and 60 designated mooring sites in Deep Bay. Sumit Patel expressed interest in bringing a boat for future visits, highlighting the park's suitability for boating enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting eagles, osprey, waterfowl, and beavers. Good Grizzle's review specifically notes the presence of these animals throughout the park.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are centered around the park's sandy beach, which includes swimming and sunbathing. The beach is clean and well-maintained, as highlighted by multiple reviews.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are hosted by the Nature Center, which offers school programs and nature hikes year-round.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and ice fishing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are supported with multiple areas for loading canoes and kayaks, as noted by Good Grizzle.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are noted as potential hazards along hiking trails, with clear paths mitigating their presence. Limited signage and trail markings may pose navigation challenges.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
Emergency services such as hospitals and police stations are likely in Plattsburgh, located approximately 5 miles away. Specific facilities are not detailed.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific details provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is alongside Lake Champlain and offers direct access to Deep Bay, Conner Bay, and Middle Bay, along with 60 designated boat mooring sites.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention the lack of signage, maps, and infographics regarding local history, flora, and fauna. Structures within the park were also noted to require maintenance.
Campground Map
19 Camp Red Cloud Road, Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States
Driving directionsPlease use the address provided for GPS driving directions or call the park directly.
The park can be accessed via two main roads: Camp Red Cloud Road and St. Armand’s Road. Roads are flat and well-paved, suitable for both vehicles and individuals with limited mobility. Seasonal fee or donation applies on some routes.Nearby places
Plattsburgh (approximately 5 miles, 10-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are likely available in Plattsburgh, approximately 5 miles away. Specific supply stores are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Point Au Roche State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's scenic beauty, clean facilities, and diverse recreational opportunities. However, some users criticize the lack of trail signage and interactive elements.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include a clean beach, ample parking, accessible trails, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include a lack of signage on trails and an absence of detailed information about the park's history and ecology.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring food and beverages as there is no concession stand on-site. For fishing enthusiasts, arrive early as spots can fill up quickly.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to swimming and beach activities. Winter is noted for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Spring and fall are quieter, ideal for nature walks and bird-watching.
Camper Quotes
"Clean beach, not too crowded, perfect for swimming. Showers were available. Loved it." (Vicki Chase); "This is a great place to see eagles, osprey, waterfowl, and many other birds." (Good Grizzle);...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews as the park does not offer camping accommodations.
Accessibility Features
Trails are mostly flat and accessible, suitable for those with limited mobility, but wheelchair users should evaluate based on their equipment.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash not exceeding six feet. They are not allowed in buildings, camping, bathing, and picnic areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025