Camping in the Adirondacks

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The Adirondack Mountains in New York State cover roughly 6 million acres, about half of which is forest preserve. That's larger than the Everglades, Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Canyon National Park combined.

Forever Wild is the motto here--and it makes camping all the more magical. Pristine forests cover the gentle mountains, with rivers and lakes to explore. Over a dozen state campgrounds dot the region, from family-friendly sites to primitive lean-tos. You can also find private campgrounds and camping resorts with Adirondack cottages and log cabins.

Cranberry Lake offers classic Adirondack camping with a sandy beach and fishing pier to cast off. Rollins Pond near Saranac Lake has boat rentals for a variety of small crafts, making it great for boaters. Or bring your own boat to Forked Lake campground for plenty of privacy. Many of the tent sites have private docks and are accessible only on by boat or on foot. Most of the state grounds have trailer sites for RVs. But if you want electrical and sewage hook-ups, you'll need to stay at one of the nearby private RV parks.

Camping is bare-bones but beautiful in the Moose River Plains Preserve. This wilderness area offers private sites and quiet nights, with both rustic campgrounds and primitive sites. Hiking trails crisscross the small lakes in this forest, making it ideal for backpackers.

To really leave civilization, pitch camp at the many lean-tos scattered across the forests. These shelters provide true wilderness immersion. But you'll need to trade basics like bathrooms and water. The Uphill and Beaver Point lean-tos are well-situated if you're climbing high peaks like Mount Colden.

Anglers can find campgrounds close to some of the region's best fishing. The Meadowbrook campground is about 5 miles from Lake Placid for trout fishing. The Wilmington Notch campground on the Ausable River has some of the best fly-fishing in the country.

97% (1.8K) 5,907 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Adirondacks

Tilden Hill Farm

1. Tilden Hill Farm

99%
(1170)
Vernon, NY · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. There are 2 bath houses on the campground with hot showers and toilets. All sites include a fire pit and picnic table. We have 10 full hook up sites (water/electric/sewer) and 9 sites with water and electric. There is a dump station and fire wood available to all for a fee. Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 12 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all! We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"
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Slateville Farm Secluded Camps

2. Slateville Farm Secluded Camps

100%
(402)
Granville, NY · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
NEWS!!! Seasoned cut and stacked firewood is at site in new woodsheds. Unlimited use is included for each booking for 2026, not an extra/add-on! The nightly rate has not been increased. Extremely Private Sites ~ Outdoor Private Hot Shower, Flush Toilet, Sinks Available at Farm Stand. Pet Friendly. 2026 POLICIES: I personally bring you to site. Please arrive before 9pm unless you have been here before and know the trail to site :) In some cases I can drop cones for you to follow to site for self check in, Please Inquire. 2 Night Minimum Weekends and 3 is preferred for Holiday Weekends Sweeping pastoral hillsides mixed with densely wooded private acres make our camps unique, each one offering a different experience. A developed network of our own marked trails for exploring, our private red slate swimming quarry with docks and seating, and catch release fishing at 2 ponds are a few things to enjoy here. Slate Valley Trails and Merck Forest are close by. Places to picnic, enjoy the sunset, and idle are a plenty. Our farm stand is stocked with seasonal produce, jams, eggs, and bagged ice. Spring water is available. Excellent locally burgers, steaks, chicken and more are available as pre-order EXTRAS. OAK - Pastoral with expansive views, Extremely Private, Steep Drive OWL - Wooded, An original site Guest Favorite, walk to quarry PINES - Densely Wooded, Hilltop, Most Remote, Viking Chairs RIDGELINE - Pastoral, Sunset Views, Covered Pergola with Pit ADK Chairs, Great for Groups, Large RVS HOPS - ADK Chairs, Combination Site Wooded/Open, Suitable for 1 RV, Graveled, May combine with Ridgeline for groups QUARRY - Waterside, Outhouse, firepit, and large picnic table. On the opposite side of the Quarry is the swimming/kayaking entrance for our visiting campers. We also have a 40 acre parcel with a bespoke lookout tower and modern cabin that is incredible. Search for "The Slateville Retreat"
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Dickensen Farm: Cabins & Camping

3. Dickensen Farm: Cabins & Camping

98%
(150)
Cambridge, NY · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Big Red Alpacas and Big Red Sustainables reside here at Dickensen Road in beautiful Cambridge NY close to both the Battenkill and Saratoga Springs. To help with the sustainability factor, we allow folks to camp on our property so they too can enjoy the woods, pastures, wild animals and farm animals, we all enjoy. Hence, we launched "Dickensen Farm: Cabins and Camping." The alpacas are inquisitive and peaceful animals, they are beautiful and provide wonderfully warm fashionable products as well. Please ask us about our seasonal products, including: Farm fresh, organically raised, free range chicken eggs Frozen meat birds Maple syrup Beautiful alpaca products Honey from our bees Dry, seasoned firewood for your camp sites Handmade Amish soaps However, you are not compelled to buy anything! If you are looking for a farmy or woodsy experience, we have BOTH at "Dickensen Farm: Cabins and Camping!"
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Adirondack State Park

4. Adirondack State Park

96%
(145)
State park in New York · 5193 sites
The Adirondacks lounge across a million acres only a 4-hour drive from NYC.
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Button Bay State Park

5. Button Bay State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Vermont · 57 sites
Discover Button Bay State Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.
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King Phillip's Campground, Lake George, New York

6. King Phillip's Campground, Lake George, New York

Lake George, NY · 116 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
King Phillip's Campground in Lake George, New York, offers a welcoming retreat with easy access to the best of the Adirondacks. Located close to the Warren County Bike Path and with a Lake George Trolley pickup right at the park, guests can enjoy convenient transportation and scenic outdoor adventures. Nearby attractions include the popular Million Dollar Beach and the breathtaking views from Prospect Mountain. With its prime location and comfortable camping experience, King Phillip's Campground is the perfect base for your Lake George getaway—reserve your spot today and start your adventure!
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Weaver Acres

7. Weaver Acres

91%
(46)
Tupper Lake, NY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy a taste of the Adirondacks with all of the amenities of a town. These spacious wooded lots provide a picturesque landscape that can accommodate almost any camper! This property has been family owned for 3 generations with no plans of that changing. This location used to be home to what the family referred to lovingly as the "Green Camp". The area holds many childhood memories for the family who is hoping to extend that opportunity to all who choose to reserve it. This property is centrally located just a 5minute walk from Tupper Lake Public Beach which contains a full bathhouse. It is also a 5minute drive to the award willing Raquette River Brewery and the Adirondack Rail Trail. Tupper Lake is also home to the #1 Natural History Museum in the Country "The Wild Center". Tupper Lake is part of the tri-lake region in the Adirondacks including Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. Lake Placid being home to the 1932 and 1980 winter Olympics.
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Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

8. Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

98%
(41)
Tupper Lake, NY · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on a 3,769 acre property with a private, mile-long lake, miles of hiking trails, and endless opportunity for outdoor adventure—Camp Mountaineer is one of the Adirondack’s best-kept secrets. Located at the historic Massawepie Scout Camps in Piercefield, NY, Mountaineer can serve as your vacation spot, home away from home, or gateway to Adirondack exploration. Camp Mountaineer is located at Massawepie Scout Camps, 65 Massawepie Road in Piercefield, NY - just west of Tupper Lake. The campground features a variety of camping options to suit your group’s needs—cabins, RV sites, tent sites, and group campsites are all available. Various amenities are provided to make your stay even more enjoyable. Situated in the North Central Adirondacks, Camp Mountaineer provides an opportunity for great on-site outdoor recreation as well as a jumping off point to adventures throughout the Adirondack Park. The facilities and services available at Camp Mountaineer make this a great choice for your family or groups’ adventure. Camp Mountaineer is owned and operated by the Seneca Waterways Council, Boy Scouts of America headquartered in Rochester, NY. First opened as a Scout camp in 1953, Mountaineer now serves as a campground equipped to suit your group’s needs. Any group can make a reservation. Our 2026 Rental Season runs July 2 -August 7
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Islands Base Camp

9. Islands Base Camp

99%
(264)
South Hero, VT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Conserved by the South Hero Land Trust, the historic Sawyer Bay Farm on the Island of South Hero was converted to grazing beef cattle. Our farm name is Health Hero Farm. We practice intensive planned grazing, moving the cattle daily to fresh grass. The herd may be near the campsites or completely out of sight, somewhere on our 180 acres. While we were building a house, we camped in the equipment shed during the summer and grew to value its convenience. Joan's enjoyment of cycling inspired her to designate the farm stand as a "bike stop" where visitors could buy a snack, get water, fix their bikes and use the unique islands amenity of a composing toilet in a converted ice fishing shack. South Hero is an agricultural island, as well as a summer tourist destination with numerous outdoor activities. It is also only a half-hour away from Burlington, and the drive is pleasurable. Pitch your tent, stow your gear under cover and explore all the islands have to offer. Yes, this is a summer destination, with great cycling, boating and swimming. We are a grass-fed beef operation, Health Hero Farm, on the island of South Hero. (You can read more about us on our farm website. ) Our farm is on the bike route around the islands, with access to many other vacation activities. Pitch your tent in the farmstead or in half of our empty equipment shed 30' x 60'. Or tool on down the farm road and be alone with the cattle and grass. In the shed, which is open on the north side, you have shelter from the rain, sun and wind. We have two campsites that can share a microwave, hot plate, refrigerator, camp sink and coffee maker in the barn. Lots of storage under roof for bikes and luggage. Our composting toilet (from Natures Head Composting Toilet) is a unique amenity -- installed in a retired ice-fishing shack (on skis). During the busy summer months, we may have a port-o-let (a.k.a. port-a-potty) with professional service. In the winter, the equipment shed not available. We rent out vehicle and boat storage in the equipment shed and cannot accommodate camping there. However, we have ample parking for RVs at any time of the year. And if you are an experienced snow camper, we have several locations to choose from. We have a farm stand where you can buy a few snacks. If you want to try our beef, we'll be happy to show you our freezers. We are 2 miles from a convenience store that packs an amazing array of products into a small space. We are close to a gem of a public beach, a winery (Snow Farm Vineyard), apple orchards, a public school playground, and miles of scenic driving. Local farmers markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays offer some of the best produce from these agricultural islands. We also own 1000' frontage on Lake Champlain, which you may enjoy. It is difficult to access, but affords privacy and serenity. We allow campfires on the gravel areas of the farm and on the beach, where you can gather dead wood. If you want to host a large group, you will need to reserve both campsites and rent a port-o-let (Vermont's lingo for porta-potty) if we don't already have one. Additional fees might apply. There is no RV electrical hookup; however, the equipment shed has electric outlets for your use. Additional fees apply for energy intensive appliances, such as heaters or air conditioners. There is no water hookup; however, we can fill your tanks with a hose from a potable water supply. Generators are not allowed, unless you are sufficiently distanced from other campers and our neighbors. Other accommodations may be available. Just ask! We have many resources, and want you to have a great visit.
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Moreau Lake State Park

10. Moreau Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park in New York · 150 sites
This popular park is a hit during hot summer days in upstate New York.
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Delta Lake State Park

11. Delta Lake State Park

State park in New York · 101 sites
Swim, fish, and hike around a secluded lake in the middle of New York.
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Jacques Cartier State Park

12. Jacques Cartier State Park

State park in New York · 89 sites
Sometimes us outdoor types just want some wiggle room where we can do the chicken dance without our elbow wings flapping into someone else's. At Jacques Cartier State Park, there is plenty of open space to dance, hoola hoop, or just enjoy some fresh air. Visitors have their choice of a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River or a secluded sheltered forest. Past the campsites, there are also open, expansive lawns just begging for games to be played, so bring that bocce set! Need even more space? Throw on that bathing suit and take a dip at the bathing beach, letting the endless waters of the St. Lawrence River wash over you, cleansing you of the stresses of urban life.
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Robert Moses State Park - Thousand Islands

13. Robert Moses State Park - Thousand Islands

State park in New York · 212 sites
Enjoy cabin and tent camping on the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands.
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Outer Space

14. Outer Space

99%
(138)
Peru, NY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property dates back to the early 1800’s where it began as a family farm and was operated that way until the 1960’s when it became a tree farm. In 1986 is when it entered our family. Much of our property remains a Red Pine tree farm with modern improvements along the way. With a Wedding Officiant on site special occasions are always welcome such as family reunions or couples seeking to elope<3
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Waddington's Leishman Point

15. Waddington's Leishman Point

95%
(44)
Waddington, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Leishman point is owned by the Town of Waddington and was created during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Dredge spoils were transported and placed creating a tract of land that rises 50 feet above the river and surrounding lands. The New York Power Authority acquired the property from the Leishman's who owned and operated a farm on the surrounding lands. In 2000, the New York Power Authority deemed the property surplus and conveyed it to the Town of Waddington. This Hip-Camp endeavor is hopefully our first step in creating a fully functional RV Park and campsite for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Town of Waddington Museum at the Old Town Hall for more information on the construction of the the St. Lawrence Seaway and how it transformed Waddington. Learn more about this land: Park your RV or camper trailer or pitch your tent on top of Leishman Point in Waddington, New York and enjoy the unobstructed views of, and unlimited access to the majestic St. Lawrence River. The Waddington public beach is adjacent to the campsite with swimming, playground, and pavilion for all to enjoy. Bring your boat and safely moor it at the public docks at the beach. Watch the Great Lake freighters and recreational boats ply the waters of the St. Lawrence River whiling fishing, swimming, sun bathing, or just relaxing by the River.
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Domaine de la Templerie

16. Domaine de la Templerie

96%
(50)
Godmanchester, QC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our farm! He're a 1 hour away from Montréal, 45 min from Ontario border and about 20 min from the US border. The campground is Located on 153 acres of land. The Domaine de la Templerie is first and foremost a Table champêtre (farm to table). To have a rustic table, a good majority of the products served in the restaurant must come from the farm. This is why you will find on site a farm with wild boars, geese, ducks, guinea fowl, pheasants, capons, turkeys and many other animals! We transform our product at the farm and sell them at the farm too. We also have a soccer field, volleyball court and horseshoe pit. * Version française * Bienvenue à notre ferme! Nous sommes à environ 1h de Montréal, 45 min de la frontière Ontarienne et 20 min de la frontière des US. Situé sur un terrain de 153 acres, le Domaine de la templerie est en premier lieu, une table champêtre. Pour avoir une table champêtre, une bonne majorité des produits servis au restaurant doit provenir de la ferme. C'est pourquoi vous allez retrouver sur place une ferme avec des sangliers, des oies, des canards, des pintades, des faisans, des chapons, des dindes et plusieurs autres animaux! Nous transformons nos produits à la ferme et les vendons aussi à la ferme. Nous avons aussi un terrain de soccer, un terrain de volleyball et un jeu de fer.
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ADK Saddle Hill

17. ADK Saddle Hill

99%
(293)
Elizabethtown, NY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This was a very old dairy farm owned by the Duntley Family. Old farming equipment dispersed throughout the property. An old foundation from a sugaring house. Beautiful old rock walls. Deer and wildlife galore. Pitch your tent or bring your camper to our 150-acre working farm oasis. Beautiful views of the Adirondack Mountains. Easy drive to great hiking spots. Easy access in Essex for the ferry to Vermont. Lake Placid, high peaks 30 minutes. Or just relax at your campsite with a fire. There is a water spigot to the left of the big brown metal building with easy access with the driveway in front of the building. Each site has its own outhouse, picnic table, two Adirondack chairs, fire ring with a cooking grate. Snow mobile access during winter months. Please use hashtag #saddlehill Happy Camping!
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Transparent Sands, Diamond Point

18. Transparent Sands, Diamond Point

99%
(427)
Diamond Point, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Renovated 1800’s camp on 10 acres with 1000 ft of river front offering quiet sites to a limited number of campers.
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Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

19. Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

100%
(97)
Saranac Lake, NY · 1 site
This off-the-grid tiny house is nestled on a 23 acre parcel at the end of a quarter-mile dirt road. The property itself is secluded but is less than 2 miles from the heart of Saranac Lake's downtown. This property is bordered by the Saranac River, the backside of Baker Mountain and State Forest. The only other building on the property is our timberframe which we may or may not be at during the time of your visit. The property does have private trails up to the cliffs on the backside of Baker mtn however, the Saranac River is down a steep embankment so it does not make for a good place to launch a boat (several public boat launches nearby). The Mt Baker tiny house is a great basecamp for hiking the Saranac Lake 6-ers, paddling/boating along the Saranac Chain of lakes or Saranac River, Mountain Biking at Dewey, Pisgah or other nearby BETA trails. IMPORTANT DETAILS: This tiny cabin is completely off the grid: no electricity, heat or cooling. Queen sized bed - we provide the linens. The driveway is narrow - so nothing in tow. Drinking water is provided via jug and dispenser. There is a brand new outhouse (no flushable toilet) We have a designated spot for campfires (smores are a must) There is an older propane grill outside for guest use
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Runamuk Farm

20. Runamuk Farm

97%
(214)
Cambridge, NY · 4 sites
Picturesque location on farmland with views of the mountains. We are a micro-farm. Go for a short hike on the property, get to know the animals watch the sunset most of the summer. We are located 35 minutes from Saratoga Springs and Lake George, NY, and 45 minutes from Dorset and Manchester, VT. Hike the Adirondack or Green Mountains, paddle the streams or go to a nearby small city for a play, a festival, or a concert. There is a long list of things to do and see within an hour of our tent.
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Frequently Asked Questions

No, you cannot camp anywhere in the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Park is a mix of public and private land, and there are specific rules and regulations for camping in each area. Dozens of backcountry campgrounds mean backcountry camping is allowed in the park, but there are rules about where you can camp and for how long, including the rule that camping is prohibited above an elevation of 4,000 feet in the Adirondacks. Additionally, some areas may require a permit or reservation in advance. For more Adirondack camping options, try booking a private land campsite.

Yes, you can tent camp in the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Park in New York State offers a wide variety of camping options, including tent camping. There are numerous designated campgrounds with tent sites, as well as opportunities for backcountry and primitive camping. When camping in the Adirondack Forest Preserve, make sure to follow the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation camping regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. You can find more information about Adirondacks camping options at Hipcamp.

Yes, you can car camp in the Adirondacks. There are numerous campgrounds and sites throughout the Adirondack Park that accommodate car camping. Some of these campgrounds are managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), while others are privately owned. To find car camping options in the Adirondacks, you can visit Hipcamp for a list of available sites. Always make sure to follow the rules and regulations of the specific campground and respect the surrounding environment.

Yes, you can camp for free in the Adirondack Park, which spans over six million acres in Upstate New York. There are numerous primitive and dispersed campsites available throughout the park, especially in the Adirondack Forest Preserve. These campsites have minimal or no facilities, so you'll need to be prepared for a more rustic experience. Keep in mind that there are rules and regulations for camping in these areas, such as camping at least 150 feet away from any roads, trails, or bodies of water. Make sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment and ensure a great experience for others.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests in and near Adirondacks