Cumberland Bay State Park

4.36

100 reviews

152 Cumberland Head Rd., Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States

Family FriendlySummer Destination

Quick Facts

98 ft

Price

$7 - $42/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Cumberland Bay State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

98 ft

Price

$7 - $42/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Cumberland Bay State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Cumberland Bay State Park

$7.00 - $42.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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...

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

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Reserve America

Provider

5185635240

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 100 reviews

498 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlakestafffriendly

"User reviews are varied, with numerous positive mentions of cleanliness and amenities. However, some voiced concerns about lack of privacy and crowded sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

152 Cumberland Head Rd., Plattsburgh, New York, 12901, United States

Cumberland Bay State Park

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.

Best Time to Camp at Cumberland Bay State Park

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming and boating; clean beaches but can be busy and noisy in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late summer/early fall noted as quieter with cooler breezes and less crowding.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Shoulder season offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though water may be cool for swimming.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Year-round availability and at least some winter activity (ice fishing) but few winter amenities noted.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Year-round camping availability, though specifics depend on seasonal conditions.
Current Alerts: Swimming may be prohibited without notice due to lifeguard coverage or water quality issues. Site renumbering changes were implemented for the 2022 season.

About Cumberland Bay State Park

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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground layout includes open spaces with minimal privacy and a mix of sandy and grassy areas.

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.

AccessibilityThe park is described as highly accessible, including accessible campsites, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

Site 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.

PrivacyMany users noted the lack of privacy due to the open layout and close proximity of sites.

Recommended SitesSites closer to the lake offer excellent views but are more exposed to wind and lack privacy.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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.

HikingHiking trails are available within 10 miles of the campground, offering diverse experiences.

FishingFishing is supported, with Lake Champlain offering opportunities for anglers.

SwimmingSwimming 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.

BikingBiking is popular within the campground and nearby. "Our kids loved riding their bikes all over," said one reviewer.

BoatingBoating opportunities include canoeing, kayaking, and other non-motorized watercraft activities. Sailboarding and sail boating are also mentioned.

Wildlife viewingLake Champlain and the surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for bird watching and general wildlife appreciation.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome 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.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, with firewood available for purchase at the park office.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM through 7 AM

Trash & RecyclingRecycling is mandatory at this park, as noted in official information. However, some users reported a lack of recycling bins at certain locations.

Water FeaturesLocated on the west shore of Lake Champlain with direct access to the beach and shallow waters.

Camp HostRanger station is available for assistance.

Weather at Cumberland Bay State Park

Reviews

4.4

100 reviews

Recommended

Cumberland Bay State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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

Based on 100 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful campground on northern shore of Lake Champlain," "Clean and well-maintained facilities," and "Friendly staff and lifeguards."

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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."

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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.

Based on 100 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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