If you’re dreaming about starry skies, campfire dinners, and waking up to the sound of birds (instead of your alarm), the Adirondacks are totally calling your name.
This part of upstate New York is packed with forests, lakes, mountains, and some seriously amazing places to pitch a tent.
Whether you’re into paddling out to your own island, parking the car right by your site, or finding a secret spot deep in the woods, there’s a camping spot here for everyone.
Some are peaceful, some are wild, and all of them are 100% awesome.
1. Lake George Island Camping
Lake George Island Camping is all about snagging a spot on a serene island, right in the middle of the lake, with spots only accessible by boat.
It’s located in the southern Adirondacks on the east side of Lake George, and it’s famous for crystal-clear water, epic sunsets, and scenic beauty.
The island campsites here offer a secluded experience with the main island camping areas being Long Island, Glen Island, and Narrow Island.
You can swim, kayak, fish, hike nearby trails like Shelving Rock Falls, or just chill at your site with picnic tables, composting toilets, and zero Wi-Fi (aka pure unplugged peace).
This is primitive camping, so expect no showers or electricity—just you, the trees, the water, and a chance to live your best campfire life.
More info:
2. Lake Durant Campground
Just west of Indian Lake, Lake Durant Campground is nestled on the east shore of Lake Durant, offering drive-in campsites among forested terrain, making setup super easy.
This spot is known for being peaceful and scenic, with easy access to the Northville-Placid Trail if you’re itching for a long hike.
Or if you prefer the water, you can paddle out on the calm lake for some early morning fishing.
Most sites come with picnic tables and fire rings, and there are hot showers, flush toilets, and a boat launch—so it’s comfy without feeling too fancy.
If you’re into birdwatching, quiet nights by the fire, and sunrise coffee with a lake view, Lake Durant totally delivers that cozy, classic Adirondack camping vibe.
More info:
3. Forked Lake Campground
Forked Lake Campground is the kind of place where you’ve got to get on a boat or hike a little bit to reach most campsites, and honestly, that’s part of the fun.
Tucked deep in the central Adirondacks near Long Lake, this spot is a favorite for folks who want that backcountry feel without backpacking for countless miles.
The sites are spaced out and super quiet, with fire pits, picnic tables, and outhouses, plus insane views of the lake where loons call out at night.
Bring your canoe, s’mores supplies, and your sense of adventure.
This one’s perfect if you’re all about peaceful water, no crowds, and stargazing from your tent.
More info:
4. Moose River Plains Wild Forest
Moose River Plains Wild Forest is for those who love dirt roads, zero reservations, and wide-open forests.
This massive chunk of wilderness between Inlet and Indian Lake has over 100 free, first-come-first-served roadside campsites, many right next to rivers, creeks, or meadows.
There are no hookups or running water, but you’ll get fire rings, outhouses, and a whole lot of freedom to explore trails and paddle the Cedar River Flow.
Or if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a moose before enjoying a night under the stars.
It’s rugged, remote, and ridiculously beautiful.
A perfect place if you want to roll in with your gear, pick a spot, and feel like you’ve got the entire Adirondacks to yourself.
More info:
5. Nicks Lake Campground
Nicks Lake Campground brings the perfect mix of nature and comfort, with a beachy lakefront, shady forest sites, and paved roads that are stroller and bike-friendly.
Located just outside Old Forge, this campground is a great pick if you’re camping with kids or want easy access to town for ice cream runs.
You’ve got flush toilets, hot showers, a big swimming area, and even a playground.
There are also hiking trails like the easy loop around Nicks Lake for peaceful lake views.
It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and super convenient, but still surrounded by enough woods and water to feel like a real Adirondack getaway.
More info:
6. Fish Creek Pond Campground
Fish Creek Pond Campground is a waterfront dream with almost every single campsite sitting right on the shore.
So you can launch your kayak or dip your toes in the water as soon as you leave your tent!
It’s up near Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake, and it’s a favorite for people who want a social, summery vibe with campsites that feel like their own little beach spots.
There are hot showers, flush toilets, and a chill campground loop that’s perfect for biking, plus easy paddling routes that link to nearby Rollins Pond.
If you’re into lazy lake floats, chatting with friendly camping neighbors, and watching the sunset from your own little stretch of shoreline, this one’s a must.
More info:
7. Rollins Pond Campground
Just around the bend from Fish Creek, Rollins Pond Campground is the quieter, more laid-back sibling.
It has bigger sites, less noise, and paddle-in access to hidden corners of the pond.
It’s tucked deeper into the woods near Tupper Lake, and it’s the go-to spot if you’re all about peaceful mornings, loon calls, and campsites with plenty of elbow room.
You’ll find picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets, and showers, but the real highlight here is the calm water.
It’s perfect for long kayaking and canoeing, with a 25-horsepower boat limit.
It’s the kind of place where you can read a whole book by the water, fall asleep to the sound of frogs, and enjoy a peaceful, secluded experience.
Though don’t expect total isolation, especially during peak seasons.
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8. Saranac Lake Islands Campground
Saranac Lake Islands Campground is a perfect pick if you want that private island feel.
You’ll need a boat to reach your site, but once you’re there, it’s just you, your tent, and wide-open lake views in every direction.
Situated on the Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes, these sites are super spaced out and feel totally private.
You’ll get fire pits, picnic tables, and the kind of stillness that makes morning coffee taste better.
There are no showers or running water (so bring your own potable water), but you’ll get composting toilets and the kind of peaceful camping that’s hard to find anywhere else.
This is the ultimate Adirondack escape for paddlers, swimmers, and anyone who wants to fall asleep to waves lapping the shore and wake up on their own ‘private island’.
More info:
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