The best great views camping near Lake Placid

·

Nestled in the Adirondacks, this New York village blends natural beauty and outdoor adventure for memorable camping. The mountain air and cool summers made Lake Placid a premier vacation destination during the Gilded Age. But you don't need a big budget to pitch a tent, cast a fishing line or launch a canoe into the tranquil waters.

The town itself is really between two lakes: Lake Placid and Lake Mirror. The latter is named for its clear waters, offering stunning views from a kayak or canoe. Not far from downtown is the public beach. The sandy shore is excellent for swimming, with a dock and diving platforms.

Lake Placid has hosted two winter Olympics. Today, the former facilities are open to the public. You can bobsled with a pro driver down the Olympic track, or take in the view from the 120-meter tall ski jump.

Explore the Brewster Peninsula nature trails while you're in town. The easy loops pass through quiet pine groves and hug the southern shore of Lake Placid.

Experienced hikers should consider pitching a tent at Meadowbrook campground. About 4 miles from town, the grounds are right next to the Scarface trailhead and close to the Haystack Mountain trail.

If you prefer to camp closer to town, check out the private campgrounds and camping cabins. These are also your best bets for creature comforts like Wi-Fi, as well as electrical hook-ups for RVs.

First-rate trout fishing can be found on the West Branch Ausable River. Get an early morning start by spending the night at the Wilmington Notch campground. Several tent sites are a stone's throw from the river, and the facilities cover basics like hot showers. The grounds are close to Veterans' Memorial Highway, a scenic drive leading to the top of Whiteface Mountain.

Saranac Lake is about 10 miles west, but well worth the trip for kayakers. There are four lakes here connected by locks, making it ideal for all-day exploring in small craft. The Saranac Lake Islands campground puts you right on the water. Most of the sites are primitive but include several tiny islands that you can call your own for the night.

98% (681) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Placid

ADK Saddle Hill

1. ADK Saddle Hill

99%
(293)
23mi from Lake Placid · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Camp Way Wild

2. Camp Way Wild

100%
(16)
29mi from Lake Placid · 1 site
Welcome to Camp Way Wild. A private camp for those looking for forested seclusion and serenity, nestled at the gates of the Adirondacks. Camp Way Wild offers our Lean To with a View, a 10' by 14' shelter large enough to accommodate up to a family of four within its sturdy frame. Just a short walk away is the newly finished bathroom, featuring a flush toilet, hot shower, and sink. We also have a rustic, traditional outhouse available for use. Situated around the property are 200 year old barns, a personal firepit, as well as a large grassy lawn great for games and activities. Local attractions nearby the property include​ local area trails state land Lake Champlain boat launch. Kayaking on the Bouquet river. Local farm market bakery and train station close by. Shop locally at Amish farm stands, organic farms. Enjoy near by dining on Lake Champlain. Boats kayaks available at local marina. Watch a beautiful sunset from Lean to and listen to the owls and the coyotes 70 acres of diverse topography and ecosystems. I joined by 50 acres of wildlife sanctuary. Rivers lake Champlain many wonderful hikes within walking distance. Westport state boat launch a mile away. View of High Peaks from 10 x 14’ lean to SUV accessible. Privy available. Wildlife abounds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$85
 / night
Bridgeview Harbour Marina

3. Bridgeview Harbour Marina

95%
(98)
31mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Bridgeview Harbour Marina is a family owned and operated full service marina, event space, and camping area on the Adirondack shore of Lake Champlain. Established in 2020 the Marina provides seasonal and overnight slips and moorings to boaters, fisherman, and lake-goers, three camp sites, and an on-site cafe. Marina services are available May thru October each year, with other events and services available throughout the year. The marina is set on 33 acres along Lake Champlain and hosts ~4150 feet of lake-frontage, it is accessible via car, boat, or via the adjacent Amtrak rail line. Prior to becoming a marina in 1989, the property was home to a very large Iron Foundry, rail yard, and barge-loading operation known as Cedar Point. Cedar point, part of the larger Witherbee-Sherman Mining Company, operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries smelting iron ore to be shipped throughout the world via the Lake Champlain Canal and Hudson River, and is credited with providing iron to some of America's leading projects at the time. Some remains of the sites industrious past can be observed throughout the property. From Father's Day to Labor Day, the Marina hosts the Port Henry Waterfront Farmers' Market every Friday between 5PM and 8PM. The Market features farms, makers, artists, food trucks and Live Music every week
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Islands Base Camp

4. Islands Base Camp

99%
(264)
40mi from Lake Placid · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Peaceful Country Haven

5. Peaceful Country Haven

99%
(117)
42mi from Lake Placid · 1 site · Tent, RV
This camp site is accessed from our driveway. We have 72 acres you are welcome to explore. If you want more privacy and have a tent, feel free to find a place in the woods. This is our home and our family visits often so please expect some cars passing by the site. We are happy to share this beautiful space and hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Learn more about this land: Park your RV or pitch your tent and take some time to relax. Take a walk through the woods, take your kayak out on Otter Creek starting at the base of our driveway or relax with a campfire. Visit the horses or ring the humongous bell, and check out the wildlife. Do you have a dog? Enjoy the freedom of letting it run and play in the small ponds in the woods. You are most likely to hear the train whistle a time or two. Wake up to beautiful sunrise to start your day off right!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

6. Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

96%
(38)
42mi from Lake Placid · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Located on the shores of the 3rd largest lake in the Adirondack Park you will find Birch's Lakeside General Store, Campground and Marina. Nightly and Seasonal RV/Tent Campsites, bring your boat and park at the marina to access the lake, hike the Cranberry 50 or Bear Mountain, excellent fishing, stargaze, Children/Dog Friendly. Combined 28 RV/Tent sites available, 40 Marina Slips.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Shaker Mountain Refuge

7. Shaker Mountain Refuge

100%
(55)
49mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites
Shaker Mountain Refuge sits on 300, mostly wooded acres at the foot of the Green Mountains. With outstanding views of Camel's Hump (Vermont's second tallest peak), the refuge is a wonderful place to sit back, relax and enjoy the natural world. There are numerous hiking trails on site, as well as a beautiful swimming pond. Access to Camels Hump hiking trails is a short drive away. Nearby, Camels Hump Nordic ski and bike center boasts incredible mountain biking and nordic ski trails. Just down the hill, the Huntington River has an abundance of swimming holes and fishing spots. Just over the Appalachian Gap are the Mad River Glen and Sugarbush ski resorts. There are many excellent restaurants within a 20 minute drive.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$100
 / night

Nestled in the Adirondacks, this New York village blends natural beauty and outdoor adventure for memorable camping. The mountain air and cool summers made Lake Placid a premier vacation destination during the Gilded Age. But you don't need a big budget to pitch a tent, cast a fishing line or launch a canoe into the tranquil waters.

The town itself is really between two lakes: Lake Placid and Lake Mirror. The latter is named for its clear waters, offering stunning views from a kayak or canoe. Not far from downtown is the public beach. The sandy shore is excellent for swimming, with a dock and diving platforms.

Lake Placid has hosted two winter Olympics. Today, the former facilities are open to the public. You can bobsled with a pro driver down the Olympic track, or take in the view from the 120-meter tall ski jump.

Explore the Brewster Peninsula nature trails while you're in town. The easy loops pass through quiet pine groves and hug the southern shore of Lake Placid.

Experienced hikers should consider pitching a tent at Meadowbrook campground. About 4 miles from town, the grounds are right next to the Scarface trailhead and close to the Haystack Mountain trail.

If you prefer to camp closer to town, check out the private campgrounds and camping cabins. These are also your best bets for creature comforts like Wi-Fi, as well as electrical hook-ups for RVs.

First-rate trout fishing can be found on the West Branch Ausable River. Get an early morning start by spending the night at the Wilmington Notch campground. Several tent sites are a stone's throw from the river, and the facilities cover basics like hot showers. The grounds are close to Veterans' Memorial Highway, a scenic drive leading to the top of Whiteface Mountain.

Saranac Lake is about 10 miles west, but well worth the trip for kayakers. There are four lakes here connected by locks, making it ideal for all-day exploring in small craft. The Saranac Lake Islands campground puts you right on the water. Most of the sites are primitive but include several tiny islands that you can call your own for the night.

98% (681) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Placid

ADK Saddle Hill

1. ADK Saddle Hill

99%
(293)
23mi from Lake Placid · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Camp Way Wild

2. Camp Way Wild

100%
(16)
29mi from Lake Placid · 1 site
Welcome to Camp Way Wild. A private camp for those looking for forested seclusion and serenity, nestled at the gates of the Adirondacks. Camp Way Wild offers our Lean To with a View, a 10' by 14' shelter large enough to accommodate up to a family of four within its sturdy frame. Just a short walk away is the newly finished bathroom, featuring a flush toilet, hot shower, and sink. We also have a rustic, traditional outhouse available for use. Situated around the property are 200 year old barns, a personal firepit, as well as a large grassy lawn great for games and activities. Local attractions nearby the property include​ local area trails state land Lake Champlain boat launch. Kayaking on the Bouquet river. Local farm market bakery and train station close by. Shop locally at Amish farm stands, organic farms. Enjoy near by dining on Lake Champlain. Boats kayaks available at local marina. Watch a beautiful sunset from Lean to and listen to the owls and the coyotes 70 acres of diverse topography and ecosystems. I joined by 50 acres of wildlife sanctuary. Rivers lake Champlain many wonderful hikes within walking distance. Westport state boat launch a mile away. View of High Peaks from 10 x 14’ lean to SUV accessible. Privy available. Wildlife abounds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$85
 / night
Bridgeview Harbour Marina

3. Bridgeview Harbour Marina

95%
(98)
31mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Bridgeview Harbour Marina is a family owned and operated full service marina, event space, and camping area on the Adirondack shore of Lake Champlain. Established in 2020 the Marina provides seasonal and overnight slips and moorings to boaters, fisherman, and lake-goers, three camp sites, and an on-site cafe. Marina services are available May thru October each year, with other events and services available throughout the year. The marina is set on 33 acres along Lake Champlain and hosts ~4150 feet of lake-frontage, it is accessible via car, boat, or via the adjacent Amtrak rail line. Prior to becoming a marina in 1989, the property was home to a very large Iron Foundry, rail yard, and barge-loading operation known as Cedar Point. Cedar point, part of the larger Witherbee-Sherman Mining Company, operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries smelting iron ore to be shipped throughout the world via the Lake Champlain Canal and Hudson River, and is credited with providing iron to some of America's leading projects at the time. Some remains of the sites industrious past can be observed throughout the property. From Father's Day to Labor Day, the Marina hosts the Port Henry Waterfront Farmers' Market every Friday between 5PM and 8PM. The Market features farms, makers, artists, food trucks and Live Music every week
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Islands Base Camp

4. Islands Base Camp

99%
(264)
40mi from Lake Placid · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Peaceful Country Haven

5. Peaceful Country Haven

99%
(117)
42mi from Lake Placid · 1 site · Tent, RV
This camp site is accessed from our driveway. We have 72 acres you are welcome to explore. If you want more privacy and have a tent, feel free to find a place in the woods. This is our home and our family visits often so please expect some cars passing by the site. We are happy to share this beautiful space and hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Learn more about this land: Park your RV or pitch your tent and take some time to relax. Take a walk through the woods, take your kayak out on Otter Creek starting at the base of our driveway or relax with a campfire. Visit the horses or ring the humongous bell, and check out the wildlife. Do you have a dog? Enjoy the freedom of letting it run and play in the small ponds in the woods. You are most likely to hear the train whistle a time or two. Wake up to beautiful sunrise to start your day off right!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

6. Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

96%
(38)
42mi from Lake Placid · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Located on the shores of the 3rd largest lake in the Adirondack Park you will find Birch's Lakeside General Store, Campground and Marina. Nightly and Seasonal RV/Tent Campsites, bring your boat and park at the marina to access the lake, hike the Cranberry 50 or Bear Mountain, excellent fishing, stargaze, Children/Dog Friendly. Combined 28 RV/Tent sites available, 40 Marina Slips.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Shaker Mountain Refuge

7. Shaker Mountain Refuge

100%
(55)
49mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites
Shaker Mountain Refuge sits on 300, mostly wooded acres at the foot of the Green Mountains. With outstanding views of Camel's Hump (Vermont's second tallest peak), the refuge is a wonderful place to sit back, relax and enjoy the natural world. There are numerous hiking trails on site, as well as a beautiful swimming pond. Access to Camels Hump hiking trails is a short drive away. Nearby, Camels Hump Nordic ski and bike center boasts incredible mountain biking and nordic ski trails. Just down the hill, the Huntington River has an abundance of swimming holes and fishing spots. Just over the Appalachian Gap are the Mad River Glen and Sugarbush ski resorts. There are many excellent restaurants within a 20 minute drive.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$100
 / night

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