Lake Camping Near Old Forge, New York, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

In the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the small hamlet of Old Forge serves as a hub for tons of outdoor recreation and lake camping. Nearby Moose River features a series of dams that create the Fulton Chain of Lakes—eight lakes popular for pontoon boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for northern pike, Atlantic salmon, and tiger muskie. Or, explore Blue Ridge Wilderness Area for hiking, hunting, and trapping. Then retire to a paddle-to or boat-in campsite right on Indian Lake or Lake Kora. Generally mild winters lead to lake-effect snow, creating perfect conditions for snowmobiling or skiing down McCauley Mountain. Nearby lakeside RV resorts offer access to frozen Grey Lake snowmobiling as well as full hookups and wifi. Glampers may prefer private cabin rentals with full and queen-sized beds just minutes from the water as well. Most areas around Old Forge also allow for primitive lakeside tent camping—as long as campers pitch their tents certain distances from roads, trails, and waterways.

98% (148)

Top-rated campgrounds near Old Forge

In the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the small hamlet of Old Forge serves as a hub for tons of outdoor recreation and lake camping. Nearby Moose River features a series of dams that create the Fulton Chain of Lakes—eight lakes popular for pontoon boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for northern pike, Atlantic salmon, and tiger muskie. Or, explore Blue Ridge Wilderness Area for hiking, hunting, and trapping. Then retire to a paddle-to or boat-in campsite right on Indian Lake or Lake Kora. Generally mild winters lead to lake-effect snow, creating perfect conditions for snowmobiling or skiing down McCauley Mountain. Nearby lakeside RV resorts offer access to frozen Grey Lake snowmobiling as well as full hookups and wifi. Glampers may prefer private cabin rentals with full and queen-sized beds just minutes from the water as well. Most areas around Old Forge also allow for primitive lakeside tent camping—as long as campers pitch their tents certain distances from roads, trails, and waterways.

98% (148)

Top-rated campgrounds near Old Forge

1. Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

96%

(38)

36mi from Old Forge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

2. Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

98%

(41)

42mi from Old Forge · 18 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 2025 Rental Season runs July 3-August 9

3. Camp Benjamin

100%

(37)

20mi from Old Forge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

4. Whetstone Gulf State Park

57 sites · Turin, New York

Upstate may be the best part of New York and you’ll find out why at Whetstone Beach State Park. Set in one of the prettiest gorges in the East, you’ll have access to hiking and biking trails, swimming, and playgrounds that are fun for e’rebody! Hike up the gorge for world class fishing in the reservoir and when the day is done relax under the starry sky in one of the wooded campgrounds.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Delta Lake State Park

101 sites · Rome, New York

Swim, fish, and hike around a secluded lake in the middle of New York.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Redarrow Yurt

50mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

Enjoy an authentic Adirondack Mountains experience for two in this one-of-a-kind yurt. Featuring a handcrafted interior built by a true Irish craftsman, with all wood hand-milled on the property, this unique retreat offers comfort, character, and charm. Take in beautiful views of our private lake and surrounding mountains. Spend your evenings stargazing by the fire, enjoy a peaceful kayak ride on the lake, or explore everything the area has to offer, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, kayaking, hunting, rafting, and tubing. Nearby attractions include Gore Mountain, Revolution Rail, Stone Bridge and Caves, and more. The yurt includes a queen bed, full-size refrigerator, 43-inch TV, Wi-Fi sound system, heated outhouse, and a three-season outdoor shower house. Jug water is supplied. Kayaks are included for use on the property. No pets or outside boats, please.

7. The Pines Lakeside Canoe & Camping

100%

(29)

49mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Tent

Enjoy a secluded lakeside campsite with two points of water access. There are no other sites on this 13 acre property, so it's very private. Complimentary canoe and stand up paddle boards for your use. New York State hiking trails just one mile down the road, plus lots of other activities like rail biking and rafting a short drive away. The campsite is just 100 steps down a well-marked trail accessible from the parking spot. Pitch your tent on the elevated platform encircled in pine trees with a view of the lake. Next to the tent area you’ll find a solar shower, picnic table, Cleanwaste toilet in outhouse, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. The site comes equipped ample firewood, fire starters, and many kitchen items including plates, bowls, utensils, cups, frying pan, can opener, wine opener, salt and pepper, cooking tongs, dish wash basin, and dish soap. Please note, that during Mother's Day and Father's Day is black fly season in the Adirondacks. Difficult to predict, but good to be aware of.

8. Trailside Ranch Cabin Rentals

94%

(35)

11mi from Old Forge · 6 sites · Lodging

YOUR CABIN IS WAITING FOR YOU! TRAILSIDERANCH IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND. This family friendly 10 acre off the grid ranch is located inside the Adirondack Park. We are at the end of Partridgeville Road and the beginning of Paradise in beautiful Brantingham NY Trailside Ranch is surrounded by the pristine 76,000-acre Independence River Wild Forest Preserve. It is linked to 65 miles of Horse trails, hundreds of miles of Snowmobile trails and to the nearly 600 miles of ATV trails. If you are looking for the full wilderness experience, you can hike right from your cabin! We also offer on-site snowmobile rentals in the winter and S x S rentals in the summer. You can hire our local guide to explore the area or if you are comfortable with a map and directions, we can give you details of some amazing scenery to see. Ask us about our rentals if you are interested in this adventure. Your time here will be something your entire family will remember for a lifetime.

9. Beaver Camp

100%

(12)

15mi from Old Forge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, this 87-acre expanse of forest, streams, and lake is the perfect escape from the business of life. Located in the Adirondack State Park directly on Beaver Lake, we have access to the lake and Beaver River flow and the wide expanse of forests and trails of the park. With heated cabins, water and electric RV sites, and outdoor tenting areas, we provide a camping experience that can be tailored to fit the needs of small and large groups. Whether it's cozying up around the fire in one of our indoor lounging areas; pitching a tent at our outpost camp lean-to site in the middle of the woods; sipping complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, or tea as you watch the sunrise over the lake; or hiking through the woods (or across the lake when its frozen over) and watching the wildlife, Beaver Camp offers a great opportunity to unplug and soak in the peace and quiet of nature.

10. Rockclimbers Paradise

100%

(9)

46mi from Old Forge · 8 sites · Tents

This scenic land in the historic Mohawk Valley was once home to the Dolgeville Branch Railroad which ran from Little Falls to Dolgeville and was a light-gauge rail line which ran its last ride in the 1960's and is also home to the only lake in the City of Little Falls, Green Lake which abounds with bullhead, small rockbass, turtles and wild fowl of all kinds.Learn more about this land:Camping with a mile-long nature trail that follows the course of the old Dolgeville/LIttle Falls Railroad Line. Parking available, firewood is on property for foraging and streams with cool water and a few waterfalls to soak under after a hot day. Best rock-climbing from the Gunks to Albany with renowned climbs such as The Wind Wall and the Diehidrals, a sheer face with bolts and runs already set up by pros from our area. Bicycling and bushwacking road and trail. Historic rockcuts form the 1800's through beautiful wooded trail and an antique Rock-crusher with works of art inside.

11. Luisa Woods

43mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Tent

built in 2006 lost luisa to cancer in 2013 ....it all about her 💖🪶 Learn more about this land: Tent camping; cabin nearby for emergencies. note that camping inside the cabin is not permitted only on the decks the lower deck and the upper deck this reason is for shelter From the elements.... the Outhouse on the deck is not for public use except for an extreme emergencies I'm try to have yourself some kind of portable toilet or dig a hole.... a porta potty is available at no extra cost but if you feel it you have to empty it and maintain its cleanliness

12. Camp Adirondack

100%

(1)

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

The perfect Adirondack getaway. This cabin is nestled in the forest only footsteps away from the shores of historic Big Moose Lake. The property is 10 acres - 4 on the shoreline of the lake and 6 in the forest across the street. The cabin is walking distance to the lake and two area restaurants and taverns. Big Moose Lake is 4 miles long and a mile wide at it's widest point. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, water-skiing, and swimming in the warmer months, or snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing in the winter. There are trout and bass in the lake if fishing is something you'd like to do.

13. West Bay Hideaway

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

Big Moose Lake Cabin — Adirondack State Park This cozy cabin sits on the western shore of Big Moose Lake in the heart of the Adirondack State Park — the perfect spot for family vacations filled with swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The living room features large windows with beautiful lake views. Just off the front deck, you’ll find a picnic table for outdoor dinners and a large fire pit — perfect for gathering around and roasting s’mores under the stars. The cabin includes three bedrooms: one with a queen bed and two with twin beds (two in each room). There are also two full bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable living room. Sleeps up to 7 guests. Located on the west end of the lake, the cabin offers stunning sunrises from the front deck or the dock — a peaceful way to start each day.

14. Spacious House on Pleasant Lake

39mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake – Relax and Reconnect Escape to lakeside tranquility at our spacious home on the shores of Pleasant Lake, just minutes from Carthage, NY. With three cozy bedrooms and open gathering spaces, it’s perfect for families or small groups seeking comfort, nature, and a peaceful retreat. Enjoy easy lake access for boating, fishing, or swimming, and take in beautiful sunsets from the shoreline. The home features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. Perfect year-round — explore snowmobiling and ice fishing in winter, or warm summer days by the lake. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of space to roam. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or reconnect, this lakeside getaway offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

15. Camp Bear Path with Lake Access

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

The perfect Adirondack getaway. This cabin is nestled in the forest only footsteps away from the shores of historic Big Moose Lake. Walking distance to the lake. There are two area restaurants and a tavern less than 2 miles from this cabin. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, water-skiing, and swimming in the warmer months, or snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing in the winter.

Camper favorites near Old Forge

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Beaver Camp

100%

(12)

15mi from Old Forge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, this 87-acre expanse of forest, streams, and lake is the perfect escape from the business of life. Located in the Adirondack State Park directly on Beaver Lake, we have access to the lake and Beaver River flow and the wide expanse of forests and trails of the park. With heated cabins, water and electric RV sites, and outdoor tenting areas, we provide a camping experience that can be tailored to fit the needs of small and large groups. Whether it's cozying up around the fire in one of our indoor lounging areas; pitching a tent at our outpost camp lean-to site in the middle of the woods; sipping complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, or tea as you watch the sunrise over the lake; or hiking through the woods (or across the lake when its frozen over) and watching the wildlife, Beaver Camp offers a great opportunity to unplug and soak in the peace and quiet of nature.

Rockclimbers Paradise

100%

(9)

46mi from Old Forge · 8 sites · Tents

This scenic land in the historic Mohawk Valley was once home to the Dolgeville Branch Railroad which ran from Little Falls to Dolgeville and was a light-gauge rail line which ran its last ride in the 1960's and is also home to the only lake in the City of Little Falls, Green Lake which abounds with bullhead, small rockbass, turtles and wild fowl of all kinds.Learn more about this land:Camping with a mile-long nature trail that follows the course of the old Dolgeville/LIttle Falls Railroad Line. Parking available, firewood is on property for foraging and streams with cool water and a few waterfalls to soak under after a hot day. Best rock-climbing from the Gunks to Albany with renowned climbs such as The Wind Wall and the Diehidrals, a sheer face with bolts and runs already set up by pros from our area. Bicycling and bushwacking road and trail. Historic rockcuts form the 1800's through beautiful wooded trail and an antique Rock-crusher with works of art inside.

Luisa Woods

43mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Tent

built in 2006 lost luisa to cancer in 2013 ....it all about her 💖🪶 Learn more about this land: Tent camping; cabin nearby for emergencies. note that camping inside the cabin is not permitted only on the decks the lower deck and the upper deck this reason is for shelter From the elements.... the Outhouse on the deck is not for public use except for an extreme emergencies I'm try to have yourself some kind of portable toilet or dig a hole.... a porta potty is available at no extra cost but if you feel it you have to empty it and maintain its cleanliness

Camp Adirondack

100%

(1)

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

The perfect Adirondack getaway. This cabin is nestled in the forest only footsteps away from the shores of historic Big Moose Lake. The property is 10 acres - 4 on the shoreline of the lake and 6 in the forest across the street. The cabin is walking distance to the lake and two area restaurants and taverns. Big Moose Lake is 4 miles long and a mile wide at it's widest point. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, water-skiing, and swimming in the warmer months, or snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing in the winter. There are trout and bass in the lake if fishing is something you'd like to do.

West Bay Hideaway

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

Big Moose Lake Cabin — Adirondack State Park This cozy cabin sits on the western shore of Big Moose Lake in the heart of the Adirondack State Park — the perfect spot for family vacations filled with swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The living room features large windows with beautiful lake views. Just off the front deck, you’ll find a picnic table for outdoor dinners and a large fire pit — perfect for gathering around and roasting s’mores under the stars. The cabin includes three bedrooms: one with a queen bed and two with twin beds (two in each room). There are also two full bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable living room. Sleeps up to 7 guests. Located on the west end of the lake, the cabin offers stunning sunrises from the front deck or the dock — a peaceful way to start each day.

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake

39mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

Spacious House on Pleasant Lake – Relax and Reconnect Escape to lakeside tranquility at our spacious home on the shores of Pleasant Lake, just minutes from Carthage, NY. With three cozy bedrooms and open gathering spaces, it’s perfect for families or small groups seeking comfort, nature, and a peaceful retreat. Enjoy easy lake access for boating, fishing, or swimming, and take in beautiful sunsets from the shoreline. The home features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. Perfect year-round — explore snowmobiling and ice fishing in winter, or warm summer days by the lake. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of space to roam. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or reconnect, this lakeside getaway offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

Camp Bear Path with Lake Access

8.9mi from Old Forge · 1 site · Lodging

The perfect Adirondack getaway. This cabin is nestled in the forest only footsteps away from the shores of historic Big Moose Lake. Walking distance to the lake. There are two area restaurants and a tavern less than 2 miles from this cabin. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, water-skiing, and swimming in the warmer months, or snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing in the winter.

Public campgrounds near Old Forge

Whetstone Gulf State Campground

26mi from Old Forge · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Whetstone Gulf State Park

Delta Lake State Park Campground

38mi from Old Forge · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Delta Lake State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Annelise

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp Benjamin

Great stay on a really cool piece of property. My boyfriend and I stayed a short night and we wished we stayed longer - next time! Ben is awesome and showed us around his place, such a cool spot, and close to so many beautiful nature spots as well. We're putting it on our bucket list to come back again and stay longer! Thanks so much Ben for your hospitality and kindness!

C

Christina

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

The site was absolutely beautiful with beautiful views from all angles! Loved kayaking and the store up front. Thanks for making that extra pot of coffee PJ! You and your wife were wonderful hosts! Thank you again!

T

Tom

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Rockclimbers Paradise

Good location where I needed to stop on my bicycle trek across America.

M

Marie

September 2025

1 night at Camp Benjamin

We only stayed one night but had a lovely time. Benjamin was very helpful and gave us great tips for hikes in the area. Definitely recommend!

A

Amma

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Pines Lakeside Canoe & Camping

Nothing but a wonderful experience. The camp site was beautiful with so many thoughtful components and little touches; they even had drinking water. It’s better than a hotel for someone who likes camping. You really only need to bring your tent and food. Site was Equipped with fire wood, wooden platform to set up your tent, and the picnic table area was also covered. The outhouse was very clean. At the lakeside the fire pit area was perfect. Many seats to choose from. You can sit down by the lake or at the fire pit and see the beautiful mountain across the lake or just adore the lake itself. We also used the canoe to paddle around the lake. I swam twice at the beach area. Water was clean and warm. The owners were very kind and all the instructions were thought of. I would give 11/10. Recommend wholeheartedly.

Kevin

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

Great campsite with awesome views. The showers and bathrooms were spotless. Highly recommend. Can’t wait to be back!

g

ga

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rockclimbers Paradise

Lots of wooded area to set up camp. Near the train tracks, but when you’re in the woods they kind of lull you to sleep.

K

Kirsten

August 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at The Pines Lakeside Canoe & Camping

We loved camping here at our little whimsical oasis! The pups had a great time exploring the property and we loved that there were different sections (sleep section, camp fire section, beach section and our palm little trail). We would definitely stay here again if looking to camp in the area.

C

Christopher

August 2025

Tent

6 nights at The Pines Lakeside Canoe & Camping

Exceptional experience! Everything has been thought of to make your stay easy and wonderful! This is an exceptionally private and very serene location. I couldn’t have been more pleased!

B

Ben

August 2025

3 nights at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

Dix cabin is great! I would definitely go back again. It’s very secluded (about a mile off-road), far away from other sites- so very private, and had everything necessary for one or two people. It’s a nice bonus that you have access to all the campground facilities (including boats for the lake). The camp caretaker was also very friendly and helpful.

Joshua

August 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With kids

2 nights at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

Such a great find! This campsite was really awesome and you get so much for the price. We stayed in an RV site and had plenty of tree buffer between us and the next site. The bathrooms were nearby and this direct access to miles of beautiful hiking trail right at the site. We also had a lot of fun at their beach and rec center. We are definitely interested in coming back.

From rear of pad. Power and water to the left rear corner. Behind me is a path down to the “White Trail” which loops the lake. And you can see the lake.

S

Scott

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

Massawepie holds a special place in our scouting family. Kids attended and worked there, adults attended as leaders. The hip camp portion is on the old scout camp known as Camp Mountaineer. The Rv sites are basic with 30amp power and water. The waterfront is basic but functional. There are shower houses and a recreation building with games and hang out area. They have only been renting “Family Camp/Camp Mountianeer” for a few years. Every year we return for a few nights to drop off or pickup a scout at a camp Pioneer down the lake. Every year the facilities and offerings are better. The only issue we have is the dump station is poorly designed and difficult to dump at because of its location at the top of a small rise in the parking lot. It is impossible to have the trailer level at the dump station. The sewer inlet is also recessed in a box that makes it so you have to continuously lift the sewer hose to get the black and gray tanks flow over the edge of the box.

n

nadya

July 2025

With kids

3 nights at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

It's a beautiful secluded lake down a half a mile road. Just bring your own bedding and enjoy the nature with no wifi. The owner is helpful and the area is not far from Tupper lake.

r

robert

July 2025

1 night at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

The facility is excellent--wild, peaceful and lots to do. Campground host , mr. matt, is a great person and will help you in any way. Showers and cabins are good, some better than others since they are still upgrading as much as possible on what funds are available. Lake is sandy and warm. thank you

K

Kylee

July 2025

Tent

4 nights at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

We loved the views, the beach, the Rec Center with so many games. We hope to be back!

c

ceejay612

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

We tent camp at Colden campsite. The booking was easy and the communication was excellent. The site was a nice open field in the woods within a short walk to showers and latrines. There was a stone fire ring and picnic table on the site.

K

Katelyn

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

It was nice having running water (+ shower) for me who hadn't camped in over 25 years! Trails clearly marked to get to rec hall and beach. The check in process was easy enough. Glad I had my Jeep to get up the hills to the cabin!

J

Judith

July 2025

25 ft Class C

7 nights at Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

This is a great campground on a beautiful lake in walking distance of rare, huge bog. There is lots of scout activity across the lake so don’t be surprised by yelling and cheering, especially in the evenings. There are also day campers who use the area. The hot showers are a nice touch.