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Our Story

Jon Thatcher grew up in nearby Ticonderoga, NY, where his family has lived for generations.  After working in education as a teacher and leadership for over 15 years, Jon decided to change careers and find a way back to the North Country.  While on an extended road trip in an RV in early 2024, Jon fell in love with the RV culture and started looking for campgrounds for sale in the Adirondacks.  Eventually, Jon found Shady Oaks and purchased the property in August 2024 with a determination to bring the property back to life and make the Adirondacks more accessible to visitors.

Shady Oaks History

Shady Oaks opened as Oak Knoll Campground in the late 1970s.  Over time, the campground grew and was renamed Shady Oaks RV Park, which was the name of the park when Jon purchased it.  As a nod to the past, the campground will continue to be called Shady Oaks but with the aspiration of becoming a best in class camping resort in the next few years.  The current layout of the campground occupies approximately 13 acres of an approximately 44 acre parcel of land and includes infrastructure for 103 full hook-up campsites.  Given the age of the campground, the lots are large and most are well shaded by the mature landscaping.

What's next:

Because of the pandemic and other material challenges, the campground needed extensive renovations when Jon purchased it.  The work is currently underway to improve infrastructure, modernize amenities, and realize the full vision for Shady Oaks Camping Resort.  Before opening in May 2025, the campground will be connected to public water, the electric service for at least fifteen campsites will be upgraded to 50amp, the grounds of the park will receive a full clean-up, and the main building will be nearly fully renovated to include a renovated campstore, updated bathrooms, a larger laundry room, and a “Great Room” that will provide ample spaces for guests to gather and build community.  If you’re interested in following along and seeing pictures of the progress in real time, follow @ShadyOaksCamping on social media or read our weekly renovation blog posts.  

Site types:

  • Traditional Tent Camping Sites

  • 30 Amp Full Hook-up RV sites (Electricity, Water, Sewer)

  • 50 Amp Full Hook-up RV sites (Electricity, Water, Sewer)

  • Coming Soon:  “The Franklin,” a retro-inspired camper rental 

  • Coming Soon:  “The Micro Minnie,” a modern camper rental

Amenities

  • Camp Store stocked with camping essentials

  • The “Great Room” with public spaces to gather and build community

  • Public bathrooms with shower facilities

  • 24 hour laundry facilities

  • Several community fire pits

  • Horseshoe pits

  • Cornhole sets

Lake Champlain by DebraMillet from Getty Images.jpg

Local Attractions:

Plattsburgh, New York, located along the shores of Lake Champlain and near the Canadian border, offers a variety of tourist attractions, both historical and natural. Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations in and around Plattsburgh:

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1. Lake Champlain

  • Lake Champlain Scenic Drive: Visitors can explore the scenic beauty of Lake Champlain with its breathtaking views, especially along the western shore. The lake offers a variety of activities like fishing, boating, and swimming in the summer months.

  • Plattsburgh City Beach: This sandy beach offers recreational opportunities, including picnicking, swimming, and relaxing by the water, with picturesque views of the lake and nearby mountains.
     

2. Chazy Lake and Ausable Chasm

  • Ausable Chasm: Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks," Ausable Chasm is a natural wonder featuring hiking trails, rafting, and guided tours along dramatic cliffs and through a stunning gorge.

  • Chazy Lake: This is a serene, quieter alternative to the larger Lake Champlain, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and nature walks.
     

3. Plattsburgh State Art Museum

  • This museum, located on the campus of SUNY Plattsburgh, features both permanent and rotating collections. It is known for its contemporary art exhibitions and its focus on regional artists
     

4. Clinton County Historical Museum

  • Located in the historic Kent-Delord House, this museum showcases the history of Plattsburgh and Clinton County, including exhibits on the War of 1812, the region's role in the Underground Railroad, and local architecture.
     

5. Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration

  • Battle of Plattsburgh: Plattsburgh was the site of a pivotal battle during the War of 1812. The area has several sites associated with the battle, including the Battle of Plattsburgh Park, where you can see monuments and learn about the historical significance of the battle.
     

6. Adirondack Coast Wine Trail

  • Plattsburgh is part of the Adirondack Coast Wine Trail, a scenic route that links several local wineries. Wine lovers can enjoy tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.
     

7. Plattsburgh Air Force Base Museum

  • This museum, located on the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base, showcases military history, particularly related to the Cold War era. The museum features aircraft displays, military artifacts, and exhibits about the role of the base in American defense history.
     

8. Ralph's Point

  • Located just outside of Plattsburgh, Ralph’s Point is a charming, quiet lakeside area perfect for a picnic, walk, or enjoying a sunset by Lake Champlain. The nearby Ralph's Point Lighthouse is also a beautiful spot for photography.
     

9. The North Country Cultural Center for the Arts

  • A center dedicated to promoting the arts, the cultural center hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops, celebrating local and regional art.
     

10. Fort Ticonderoga

  • While a short drive from Plattsburgh, Fort Ticonderoga is a must-visit historical site. Located on Lake Champlain, the fort played a significant role during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

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11. Cumberland Bay State Park

  • Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, this park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and water activities, as well as scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
     

12. Plattsburgh City Marina

  • Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, this marina offers a variety of water sports and boat rentals, along with lovely views of the lake, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

These attractions highlight the natural beauty, rich history, and cultural offerings of Plattsburgh, making it a great place for visitors interested in outdoor activities, history, and art.

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