Inn for the night

I live in Rochester and have family business that takes me to Plattsburgh sometime in the next two weeks. Was looking at hotels/motels in Plattsburgh but none look as comfortable as my hammock. So I am thinking of splitting the trip and stopping off on way up and/or back and getting in a quick night under the stars.

• Trail-head on or close to one of the several routes that cut through (28, 30, 8, 9, etc.)
• Designated campsite preferred, Lean-To ok but I would move 150' away.
• Waterfront location preferred
• Far enough in so I do not hear highway but less than 3 miles
• Well established trail that can be followed with dwindling sunlight (experienced hiking at night but I do not wish to bushwhack.)
• Easy to moderate grade preferred if trail is on long side
• Might be fun to tread on the NPT some
  

I would welcome your thoughts. I winter hammock so I am ok with snow (saw it in Catskills last week) and low temps.