The DeWitt Family Legacy in New York
At Lake Champlain RV Resort, we take great pride in offering more than just a place to camp—we offer a piece of history. Our story is deeply connected to the DeWitt family, whose roots in New York stretch back more than 250 years. Generations of DeWitts have lived, worked, and served in this state, shaping both their family’s legacy and the communities around them.
This long and enduring connection to New York is one of the things that sets our resort apart from other RV parks in the area. For the DeWitts, this land isn’t simply a business venture. It is a continuation of a family story filled with patriotism, hard work, and a love of community. Providing this nostalgic and beautiful space for campers in Upstate New York means carrying forward traditions that began centuries ago.
From the Revolution to the Civil War
The DeWitt family’s story in America begins with Garrit V.H. DeWitt (1739–1793), who immigrated from the Netherlands to North America in the mid-1700s. Garrit became part of New York’s earliest chapters, serving with the New York Provincial Troops from 1755 to 1764. He lived through the Revolutionary War era, establishing the DeWitts as a family that would always answer when their country called.
Garrit’s son, John DeWitt (1769–1841), carried that tradition forward. Born in Ulster, NY, John served with Col. James Gray’s Company during campaigns in Canada. Like his father, he embodied the values of patriotism and duty that would become hallmarks of the family.
As the 19th century unfolded, the DeWitts remained a vital part of rural New York life. Cornelius C. DeWitt (1814–1853) worked as a farmer and U.S. Postmaster in Marbletown, NY, reflecting the family’s strong ties to community service. His son, Larned DeWitt (1840–1913), enlisted in Company A of the 75th New York Infantry during the Civil War, once again proving that the
The World Wars and Beyond
The legacy of service continued with Harold Francis DeWitt (1895–1987), who served in both World War I and World War II. From time spent in France to his later career in public service, Harold carried forward the family’s tradition of courage and commitment.
That same dedication was passed down to Dave DeWitt, who today is a part-owner of Lake Champlain RV Resort. Dave served as a Captain in Vietnam, adding his own chapter of service and sacrifice to the DeWitt legacy. His love for the land and for his country inspired him to preserve the campground for future generations of campers.
Now, the newest generation includes Blake DeWitt, a farmer and entrepreneur who shares the same values of stewardship, community, and family. Together, Dave and Blake represent the past, present, and future of the DeWitt family story in Upstate New York.
A Home in the Lake Champlain Region
The Lake Champlain region has long been part of the DeWitts’ story. With its natural beauty, historic significance, and welcoming communities, it was the perfect place for the family to invest in a property that could bring people together. By purchasing and preserving the campground in Peru, New York, Dave and Blake hoped to create a place where others could experience the same sense of belonging, beauty, and history that had always meant so much to their family.
Their vision was simple: as New York continues to grow and modernize, this campground should remain a place that feels timeless. Here, campfires still bring neighbors together. Families slow down, enjoy nature, and reconnect. Guests experience the feeling of community that is harder to find in today’s busy world.
This vision has become reality at Lake Champlain RV Resort. Every visitor becomes part of the DeWitt family’s living history, adding new memories to a story that stretches back more than two centuries.
Carrying the Story Forward
For the DeWitts, Lake Champlain RV Resort is more than just a campground. It is a tribute to those who came before:
- Garrit, the immigrant who built the foundation.
- John, the Revolutionary War soldier.
- Cornelius, the farmer and postmaster.
- Larned, the Civil War veteran.
- Harold, the World War hero.
- Dave, the Vietnam Captain and modern steward.
- Blake, the next generation, ensuring the family’s values continue.
Each generation gave something back to New York, and today, the resort itself is part of that legacy. By offering a welcoming space for campers, families, and travelers, the DeWitts are continuing their tradition of community and service.
Why This History Matters to Our Guests
You might wonder why the history of the DeWitt family is so important to our campground. The answer is simple: it sets us apart. Many campgrounds are simply businesses. Ours is a living legacy.
Every decision we make is shaped by the values of the generations before us: integrity, hospitality, and care for the land. When you stay here, you’re not just renting a campsite. You’re stepping into a story that has been unfolding for more than 250 years.
For the DeWitts, providing this space is about more than offering hookups and amenities. It’s about creating an atmosphere where families can build their own traditions, just as the DeWitts have done for centuries. This connection to the past gives Lake Champlain RV Resort a unique character you won’t find at other campgrounds in Upstate New York.
A Space That Feels Like Home
The DeWitt family history is woven into the very fabric of Lake Champlain RV Resort. That’s why campers feel such a sense of welcome when they arrive. The safe, clean, and quiet environment reflects the DeWitts’ commitment to stewardship. The friendly atmosphere stems from their commitment to community. The peaceful pond, shaded lots, and family activities are extensions of their vision of what camping should be: simple, beautiful, and meaningful.
Becoming Part of the DeWitt Legacy
When you pull into Lake Champlain RV Resort, you’re not just setting up camp. You’re becoming part of a larger story. You’re sharing in a tradition that has been carried forward for generations, from Garrit’s first steps in New York to Blake’s vision for the future.
The DeWitts see every camper as part of their extended family. Each campfire, each weekend getaway, and each long-term stay adds another page to the story. It’s a living history, one that you are invited to join.
Plan Your Stay and
Experience the Difference
When you choose Lake Champlain RV Resort, you’re choosing more than just a campsite in Upstate New York. You’re choosing to be part of a family tradition that has been unfolding for centuries. You’re choosing to stay at a place where history and hospitality come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Come and be part of the DeWitt family story. Experience a campground shaped by history, enriched by tradition, and designed to make every guest feel at home.
