Camping near Lake Placid

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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% (2.9K) • 4,439 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Placid

Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

1. Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

100%
(120)
7.3mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites
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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Saranac Lake River Camp

2. Saranac Lake River Camp

99%
(56)
7.5mi from Lake Placid · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Saranac Lake River Camp! Bring your canoes, kayaks, bikes etc? Escape to a scenic, waterfront getaway right on the beautiful Saranac River. Whether you are looking to relax by the water or explore the local area, this spot offers the perfect balance of nature and convenience. The Space Camper-Friendly: The spacious campsite comfortably accommodates campers and RVs up to 34 feet in length. Prime Waterfront Location: Step right outside your door to enjoy direct access to the river. Explore the Area Step into History: Take a short, scenic walk or bike ride into Historic Downtown Saranac Lake to enjoy local shops, dining, and culture. Paddle the River: Launch your canoe or kayak right from the camp! Paddle upstream to head straight into town, or go downstream to explore the peaceful winding riverways.
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Adirondacks Best Riverfront Campsit

3. Adirondacks Best Riverfront Campsit

95%
(140)
9.6mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Ausable riverfront sites. Porta potty on site Close proximity to hiking, kayaking, fishing, mt biking and lake placid. My driveway is located across the street from Manning’s Way. There are two whiskey barrel flower planters at the end of my driveway. When you pull into my driveway bear right down through the pine trees to the campsites. High peaks within a 5 minute drive. Firewood for sale Please when you arrive, don’t go up Manning’s way!!! Neighbors are getting aggravated. We are across the street from Manning’s way on the river side of the road. Message me for physical address
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Picnic table
Adirondack State Park

4. Adirondack State Park

96%
(149)
State park 18mi from Lake Placid · 5193 sites
The Adirondacks lounge across a million acres only a 4-hour drive from NYC.
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Macomb Reservation State Park

5. Macomb Reservation State Park

State park 30mi from Lake Placid · 95 sites
Pristine fishing in mountainous terrain equals the perfect outdoor getaway.
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Wilmington Terrace Barnyard

6. Wilmington Terrace Barnyard

100%
(29)
11mi from Lake Placid · 1 site
* I'm only able to host FULLY SELF-CONTAINED rigs currently. This means that you must have a toilet on-board * WTB is part of an old Wilmington apple orchard with views of Whiteface Mountain and access to the Au Sable River. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our Wilmington Terrace Barnyard! It's a half acre plot of land located behind my house "Wilmington Terrace Ranch" (on Air B+B). It's a quiet neighborhood on a dead-end street. We're in close proximity to copious hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing on the Au Sable river, 'the flume' swimming hole, pubs and restaurants, and nearby Adirondack towns including Lake Placid, Saranac Lake and Keene.  Aside from the lean-to located in the back corner of the property, there is access to electricity and water, a fire pit and outdoor seating. I can only accommodate fully self-contained rigs! Feel free to contact me with any questions!
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Blackfly Camp and Cabin

7. Blackfly Camp and Cabin

95%
(37)
11mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
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Cold Brook Farm

8. Cold Brook Farm

93%
(37)
12mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites
Cold Brook Farm is located about 20 mins from Whiteface Mountain for mountain biking or skiing and about 30 minutes from the Olympic village of Lake Placid. All campsites look over an old man made pond full of wild life. See frogs, toads, birds, deer, and more all around the pond. Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and private outhouse.
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Adirondack Campsites

9. Adirondack Campsites

98%
(26)
12mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites
The perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, this camping site nestled in the heart of the forest is a haven for adventure. With hiking trails within a short driving distance, you can explore the lush greenery and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After a short drive, take a dip in the nearby lakes (Lake Colby and Lake Flower) and rivers for a refreshing break, or challenge yourself nearby rock climbing . If you're looking for a change of pace, the charming towns of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid are just a short drive away, offering a variety of shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. Whether you want to relax and reconnect with nature or pursue exciting outdoor activities, this site will be a great home base! Because we are a registered New York Children's Camp we ask all Hipcampers to abide by the following rules: No smoking, No consumption of alcohol, Quiet time after 10pm, Pack out your own trash.
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Button Bay State Park

10. Button Bay State Park

100%
(5)
State park 32mi from Lake Placid · 57 sites
Discover Button Bay State Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.
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D.A.R. State Park

11. D.A.R. State Park

State park 33mi from Lake Placid · 46 sites
Discover the natural charm of D.A.R. State Park.
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Mt. Philo State Park

12. Mt. Philo State Park

100%
(2)
State park 38mi from Lake Placid · 7 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Mt. Philo State Park.
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Cumberland Bay State Park

13. Cumberland Bay State Park

State park 41mi from Lake Placid · 134 sites
Cumberland State Park is anything but cumbersome; it’s a well-organized, campsite-stocked State Park that hugs the shores of Lake Champlain. Here, you'll be able to nestle your toes within the natural sands that rim the lake’s aqua blue waters. And, brimming with over one-hundred and thirty camptits (both walk-in and hook-up style), there’s a sure-shot you’ll be able to reserve your site in advance―during the the parks open season, that is. Be sure to leave a weekend or two open between May and October, you and your sandy flip-flops will thank you for it!
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Jay Mountain Vista

14. Jay Mountain Vista

92%
(24)
14mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
On this secluded 13 acre forested property, you're located directly across from the Ausable River, with plentiful mountain views. Only minutes away from Whiteface Mountain, the mountain bike trails of Wilmington, and with easy access to many of the high Peaks. Come enjoy peace and quiet relaxation while listening to the sounds of nature amongst the trees.
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Magikal trails

15. Magikal trails

97%
(17)
15mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Two acres that back up to swamp land. Magikal trails to experience. Rough out house, rough outside shower and rough lean-to. All hand built. Fire pit with grill shelves, you can hang out near a fire and cook your meals. Lego wall, free library, geo caches on property. Internet, screened in porch if it is raining or buggy. Solar lantern that can charge your phone. Or you can plug in on the porch.
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Karley's Cabin

16. Karley's Cabin

96%
(14)
15mi from Lake Placid · 1 site
Private Cabin in the woods with stove, refrigerator, sink, drinking water, shower, electricity, heat, and lights. Master bedroom has a double bed. Snuggle up in front of the Vermont Castings wood stove. Take the canoe for a paddle through Jones Pond or Rainbow Lake, or put it on your car and travel further using the provided car-top system. Visit nearby Paul Smith's VIC Center and explore miles of trails. Visit nearby Saranac Lake and check out the shops downtown. Stop by the world-famous Donnelly's ice cream to taste's the soft serve flavor of the day. Bike the Adirondack Rail Trail for a scenic, paved experience or several mountain biking networks like Dewey Mountain, Mt. Pisgah, and Fowler's Crossing for challenging rides. We don't hire cleaners. You're it. Be sure to leave it better than you found it and remove all garbage.
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Adirondack Magic

17. Adirondack Magic

99%
(87)
20mi from Lake Placid · 3 sites
We are located in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks between Lake Champlain and Lake Placid. Our sites are only for fully contained RVs. We have no bathroom or shower facilities. Sites 1 and 2 are not for tenting. Dogs: We limit the amount of dogs to a maximin of 3 per RV (not per site). Our area is legendary for a multitude of hiking trails, mountain biking, and lakes/rivers for paddling. There are amazing natural environments such as Ausable Chasm and the area is also rich in American historical sites. We are centrally located making area events and popular destinations an easy drive. We are also close to Rt 87 for ease of access yet far enough away to enjoy plenty of quiet and space in nature. The 2 RV site areas are very large with ample space for large RV turnaround and parking for vehicle. We are 300 feet off a road and are surrounded by small hamlets and villages within the park. There is so much to do in this vacation wonderland. Enjoy local breweries and vineyards during your visit. In addition, most every drive is a scenic drive and traffic is almost nonexistent except in some areas during high tourism. You will love it here! We do!
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Brookview Cabin

18. Brookview Cabin

99%
(92)
21mi from Lake Placid · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Off grid 10X14 cabin queen bed, solar power battery for charging small devices , coffee pot, toaster, grill with side burner for cooking, outside sink, hot outdoor shower, outhouse, fire pit, picnic table, no smoking, space heater for those cool nights, access to Mountain Brook, close to Adk Peaks . hiking ,biking ,ferry to VT 10 mi info, call or txt 5189353618.
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Adirondack Adventure Base

19. Adirondack Adventure Base

99%
(80)
23mi from Lake Placid · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Overlook Lean-To, Treehouse, primitive campsites, and so much more! This is glamping at its finest. Our property was originally used as a seasonal hunting/fishing camp in the 1920's. Sheila and Bob bought it in the early 80s and have turned it into an amazing compound built for their family. They blinked their eyes and their children are gone, so this beautiful 50 acre diverse property and its private trail system are meant to be shared. Nestled in a mature, private pine forest, this well cared for property boasts abundant wildlife and a network of walking, skiing and mountain biking trails which take you past wetlands, cliffs and a variety of forest types. They have all kinds of lodging options from a beautiful vacation cabin they rent, to an Adk lean-to, to a Treehouse, and primitive campsites. You'll find a little bit for everyone at Adirondack Adventure Base.
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Scott’s Summit

20. Scott’s Summit

95%
(10)
23mi from Lake Placid · 1 site
This property is part of an original hundred acre woods in the Adirondack Park overlooking Lincoln Pond. My grandfather moved an old ice house under the property in 1943 and built the existing camp in 1949. Her family lives in Florida and has continued to maintain and improve the old camp for the last 40 years. After having done selective logging two years ago we discovered a spot in the back of the property overlooking the pond and with the removal of a couple of trees have a beautiful view of Lincoln Pond. The deck with the Yurt is the beginning of an eventual cabin. I live in the main house from late May until late October and decided to share it with like minded nature loving folks. It’s a 1/2 mile hike from the parking lot with total privacy.Learn more about this land:Located on top of a hill on a 100 acre wildlife sanctuary overlooking Lincoln Pond and the Adirondack High Peaks. Private Yurt on wooden deck with solar shower and water pumped up from nearby creek. Access from parking area over old logging road by SUV or ATV or a 12 minute hike from the parking area. 15 minute drive to numerous Adirondack hiking trails. Enjoy starry nights with a Biolite Bonfire. Two twin air beds and one king air bed. Bring your sleeping bags. Glamping at its best!
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Frequently Asked Questions

In Lake Placid, you can pitch a tent, cast a fishing line, or launch a canoe into the tranquil waters. You can also explore different options for camping near Lake Placid on Hipcamp.

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 wifi, as well as electrical hook-ups for RVs. You can also explore different options for camping near Lake Placid on Hipcamp.

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.

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

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