Shady Oaks Camping Resort, located in Plattsburgh, NY, will open its 2026 camping season May 1 with a calendar of themed rallies and campouts scheduled throughout the spring, summer, and early fall, following its recognition as “Best New Campground” in the 2025 Camp New York Awards.
The event lineup is designed to bring together campers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts while encouraging visitors to explore the surrounding region, including the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain.
Owner Jon Thatcher, a native of Ticonderoga, returned to the North Country in 2024 with the goal of restoring a long-standing campground property and creating a destination for both local residents and travelers visiting the area.
“Coming back home to the North Country and having the opportunity to invest in this property has been incredibly meaningful,” Thatcher said in a press release.
“Our goal at Shady Oaks is to build community and introduce more people to the Adirondacks and the North Country. When visitors stay with us, they often spend time exploring local restaurants, small businesses, and attractions throughout the region, which is something we’re really excited to support,” Thatcher added.
Since August 2024, the property has undergone a series of upgrades as it transitioned from its previous identity as Shady Oaks RV Park into a renovated camping destination.
Improvements include a connection to public water, electrical system upgrades, renovated bathrooms, updates to the camp store, and the addition of a glamping tent rental known as Buckminster.
The additional improvements and investments are planned in the coming seasons as the property continues its redevelopment.
Recognition in the 2025 Camp New York Awards reflects the progress made since the revitalization began and the support the campground has received from guests and the surrounding community.
The 2026 event schedule is also intended to encourage weekend visits and shoulder-season travel while attracting new visitors to the nearby Plattsburgh area.
Planned rallies and themed campouts include the Van Life Rally scheduled for May 29–31, the Vintage Camper Rally and Car Show from June 19–21 with the car show set for June 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Tiny Trailer Campout from July 10–12.
Additional gatherings include the RV 101 Rally from July 24–26, Northern Neighbors Weekend from July 31 through August 3, the Airstream Rally from August 21–23, and the Fall Colors Campout from September 25–27.
Featured image by Shady Oaks Camping Resort