The best great views campgrounds near Paul Smiths, New York

Looking to go camping near Paul Smiths, New York? Hipcamp has you covered with over 720 options to choose from. Whether you're a fan of paddling, exploring historic sites, or biking, there's a campsite that suits your activity preference. With an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $20, camping is affordable for every budget. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews: Transparent Sands, Diamond Point (153 reviews), Vermont Ranch & Riverside Retreat (132 reviews), and Islands Base Camp (121 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and toilets. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

98% (627)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Paul Smiths, New York? Hipcamp has you covered with over 720 options to choose from. Whether you're a fan of paddling, exploring historic sites, or biking, there's a campsite that suits your activity preference. With an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $20, camping is affordable for every budget. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews: Transparent Sands, Diamond Point (153 reviews), Vermont Ranch & Riverside Retreat (132 reviews), and Islands Base Camp (121 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and toilets. Get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

98% (627)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

96%

(38)

33mi from Paul Smiths · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cranberry Lake, NY

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. Bridgeview Harbour Marina

95%

(98)

48mi from Paul Smiths · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Port Henry, NY

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

3. - Ubuntu -

100%

(117)

34mi from Paul Smiths · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Au Sable Forks, NY

“Ubuntu” Def: An ancient African word meaning “Humanity to others”. It is a reminder of “I am what I am because of who we all are.” We do our best to bring the spirit of Ubuntu to our lives and property that we have been graced with. We hope your visit to Ubuntu will be peaceful and rejuvenating. Ubuntu was the PERFECT place to observe the Northern Lights on Friday and Saturday (May 10-11). Campers at Ubuntu found the perfect spot to observe the April 8th TOTAL solar eclipse. There are no lights, no neighbors in sight, and they had the freedom to choose their campsite or observation point, whether it was on the flat, nestled in the trees, or on top of Carney Mountain. RV’s also easily found a spot to camp. New friends were made as everyone observed the eclipse. It was totally awe inspiring in so many ways!! The open areas and the top of Carney Mountain, which is a short hike with panoramic views of the area, were perfect spots to experience the solar eclipse, Northern Lights, sunrises and sunsets. The 115 acres of Ubuntu offer many opportunities for camping, hiking and enjoying the abundant wildlife. There is a wet area that sometimes becomes several ponds if the beavers have been at work. There is a path leading to the ponds and also one that runs through the woods to the right of the ponds. The location is private and quiet but still very accessible (only 10 minutes from Exit 34 off the Northway) to all the Adirondacks has to offer, such as biking, jogging, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Ubuntu is located only 45 minutes from Lake Placid and the high peaks areas, Saranac Lake is about one hour away, Lake Champlain is 20 minutes away, and Montreal is one hour away. The ferry to Vermont if you wish to cross over the pond (Lake Champlain) is about 45 minutes away. And Exit 34 off the Northway is only 10 minutes from Ubuntu. And if you love equestrian sports, the Willow Hill Equestrian Center is less than 1.5 miles away. Bring your horse and stable your buddy at the Willow Hill Farm, or sign up for a lesson with one of their accomplished instructors. Your furry pets are welcome, but we ask that you keep them on a leash if they tend to chase game or do not have a reliable recall. Please use good judgment. There are many deer on the property, so yes we do have ticks. Please take the necessary precautions. Generators are allowed but in keeping with the peace and tranquility of Ubuntu, please run them only between the hours of 12:00 - 2 PM, especially if other campers are present.. If there are no other campers then use at your own discretion. We hope that your visit to Ubuntu will be a great experience that you will enjoy and treasure! In Peace, Aisha and Moussa

4. ADK Saddle Hill

99%

(293)

38mi from Paul Smiths · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Elizabethtown, NY

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!

5. Islands Base Camp

99%

(264)

47mi from Paul Smiths · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · South Hero, VT

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.

6. Camp Way Wild

100%

(16)

44mi from Paul Smiths · 1 site · Lodging · Westport, NY

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.

Stories from the community

Gabe

November 2025

19 ft campervan

3 nights at Islands Base Camp

Absolutely gorgeous spot on a charming farm, perfect in every way. Joan and Bob were wonderful hosts—as were the gentle cows! They’ve put a lot into making it a welcoming place for campers and have thought of everything. Thank you so much for having me!

G

Guy

November 2025

37 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Islands Base Camp

I can't say enough good things about our stay with Joan and the area in general. It was beautiful, relaxing, and just what my wife and I needed for a weekend away. This working farm was absolutely gorgeous and peaceful. Joan was such a generous host, she even invited us out to see the cows which was the highlight of our stay. The farm was easy to locate and there was plenty of room to maneuver virtually any size RV. We will absolutely be back for a visit in the warmer months!

T

Taylor

October 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at ADK Saddle Hill

A great, convenient, and thoughtfully laid out site. I stayed two nights while exploring the trails and really enjoyed the view over the field with their horses during the day and the stars at night were amazing. The outhouse was convenient and clean as well. I definitely plan on returning someday soon!

Alison

October 2025

Tent

1 night at - Ubuntu -

Second visit with my dog. We had the place to ourselves on a fall afternoon & evening, & it was lovely. It's a great stopping point on our trips to Montreal.

V

Valerie

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Way Wild

Beautiful campsite with stunning views! Exceptional in every way! Shower with hot water was such a treat and very accommodating host! Will stay again!

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Islands Base Camp

We loved camping here! Joan is a great host and made us feel at home. Our campsite had a wonderful view and felt like true Vermont countryside. We enjoyed exploring the Grand Isle area. We bought fresh beef from Joan before leaving. Will definitely camp here again in the future!

Roxanne

October 2025

16 ft car

3 nights at Islands Base Camp

Joan is an amazing host and the farm is breathtakingly beautiful! She made sure my stay at the base camp was comfortable and that I had everything I needed while giving me plenty of space (and recommendations) for doing my own thing. Getting to explore the island as the fall colors were popping was the break I needed. The steak I purchased from their stock was also ridiculously good with this garlic Parmesan "Better Butter" that I got from the local store. So good. If I lived on the East Coast, I'd definitely visit again!

Joseph

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at - Ubuntu -

This was my last weekend at Aisha's land and I want to thank her for making my fall work camping season special.

C

Courtney

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

Everything went well, the views were amazing, the bathrooms were great, the hosts were top tier. Will definitely be trying to return!

4WD recommended for wooded sites - fun, short drive!

Clinton

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to - Ubuntu -

Spent one night at Ubuntu while exploring the Adirondacks with my doggo. Loved the privacy of the site, views of hillsides with fall colors, stargazing and walking paths! Aisha was kind and attentive when she greeted us and the wood bundle was a generous size and dry. There were other campers, but the smaller site in the woods was completely private. Would go back!

G

Gabe

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Way Wild

Ken hosts one of the most incredible campsites I’ve had the pleasure of staying at, and it doesn’t hurt that he’s one of the kindest souls I’ve met too! Make sure to bring a camera when you visit, the view is not something you’ll want to forget, nor the beautiful sites around the campground. This is a must-stay, and I won’t be surprised if Ken ends up being booked year-round!!! (Also, we recommend a car with higher suspension and four wheel drive as to make the trip up to the lean-to easier!) Thanks Ken :)

Jessica

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Islands Base Camp

Spent an amazing weekend with my girlfriends in South Hero and thanks to the kindness of Joan it was that much more special! We got a chance to talk about the farm/cows lots of learning! The area was so beautiful, great for bike rides and scenic views of mountains and the lake. Camping was so convenient on the farm, close to the restroom, dishwashing area, and soft grass for tents, we had everything we needed and more!

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!

Katy

October 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to ADK Saddle Hill

Incredible spot!!! Beautiful view of foliage and mountains. The sites are huge with great privacy. We will absolutely be back!

Joseph

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at - Ubuntu -

I had a great last week at Aisha's land and thanks so much for a great season. I had so many special memories here this fall. Thanks.

L

Leikathryn

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Camp Way Wild

Ken’s site is just perfect. To die for view. Very nice lean to with a hammock where we stood our tent. Clear instructions. He sent a map and called to make sure we will settle good. You need a four wheel vehicle to get close to the lean to. Otherwise, there’s a nice campsite near the bathhouse as well. We loved our stay here. Felt super safe. And the outhouse is very accessible too if you need to go in the middle of the night. Thank you, Ken!

Joseph

October 2025

Tent

6 nights at - Ubuntu -

I am a repeat guest and I continue enjoy Ashias hospitality. She goes above and beyond to make sure all my camping needs are taken care of.

Charmine

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to - Ubuntu -

Beautiful site with so much space with a fire ring and a picnic table. Aisha went above and beyond and met me upon arrival. Without asking, she considered what I might need most and suggested to have the site closest to the outhouse. As a solo woman traveling, I really appreciated that. The outhouse also smelled awesome with the cedar shavings you scatter after use. Her artworks brought a relaxing vibe and her living close by made me feel safe. It truly deserves to be the best of hipcamps in NY.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Way Wild

Great secluded place. Beautiful views from the lean - to. Beautiful land.

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Islands Base Camp

What an absolutely beautiful & serene place to call home for two nights of camping. We lucked out with perfect fall weather & a bright full moon! We loved the views of sprawling farmlands and cows out in the fields. The farm & surroundings are super quiet which made for great sleeping. Joan is super friendly & helpful; she & her husband have many amenities if you need them; we appreciated the clean & easy to use composting toilet. We cooked our own breakfasts using the fire pit (there is wood available for purchase) Joan told us about a local Farmer’s Market that we checked out before going on a bicycle ride along the causeway over to Burlington. South Hero is very quaint with a great feeling of community. We look forward to another trip & stay.