Camping near Saranac Lake

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Hemmed in by forests, lakes, and mountain peaks, outdoor activities take place year-round at Saranac Lake. Hike or bike along the Saranac River, paddle between the three lakes by canoe or kayak, or play a game of golf. As the snow begins to fall, set out to explore by snowmobile, try snowshoeing or ice fishing, or hit the ski slopes at Mt Pisgah. For a memorable camping experience, snag a spot at one of the island campsites—be warned, they book up quickly! If you miss out, there are more state campgrounds nearby, plus ‘lean-tos’ for hikers in Saranac Lakes Wild Forest.

98% (2.5K) • 4,404 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake River Camp

1. Saranac Lake River Camp

99%
(56)
0.8mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

2. Mt Baker Tiny Cabin

100%
(120)
1.2mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Adirondack Campsites

3. Adirondack Campsites

98%
(26)
4.3mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Adirondack State Park

4. Adirondack State Park

96%
(149)
State park 18mi from Saranac Lake · 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 33mi from Saranac Lake · 95 sites
Pristine fishing in mountainous terrain equals the perfect outdoor getaway.
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Blackfly Camp and Cabin

6. Blackfly Camp and Cabin

95%
(37)
8.1mi from Saranac Lake · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
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Electrical hookup
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Karley's Cabin

7. Karley's Cabin

96%
(14)
9.4mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Magikal trails

8. Magikal trails

97%
(17)
9.4mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Cold Brook Farm

9. Cold Brook Farm

93%
(37)
9.8mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Button Bay State Park

10. Button Bay State Park

100%
(5)
State park 39mi from Saranac Lake · 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 40mi from Saranac Lake · 46 sites
Discover the natural charm of D.A.R. State Park.
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Higley Flow State Park

12. Higley Flow State Park

State park 41mi from Saranac Lake · 128 sites
You don't have to be an interpretive dancer (though it's probably recommended) to understand the helpful interpretive signs that describe the six distinct habitats through which the Beaver Pond Nature Trail passes at Higley Flow State Park. Despite the otherwise heavily-wooded and hilly terrain, there is a sandy beach for swimming and plenty of leveled campsites so you won't roll your own little dam down stream. Take advantage of the many amenities this camp has to offer, even for winter visitors (ice fishing, anyone?), but be aware that they do allow hunting during certain peak seasons so be sure to check the calendar and throw the oranges in tow!
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Cumberland Bay State Park

13. Cumberland Bay State Park

State park 44mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Wilmington Terrace Barnyard

14. Wilmington Terrace Barnyard

100%
(29)
16mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Adirondack Adventure Base

15. Adirondack Adventure Base

99%
(80)
16mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Adirondacks Best Riverfront Campsit

16. Adirondacks Best Riverfront Campsit

95%
(140)
17mi from Saranac Lake · 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
Weaver Acres

17. Weaver Acres

91%
(84)
18mi from Saranac Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy a taste of the Adirondacks with all of the amenities of a town. These spacious 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 when in operation during the summer months. 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 "The Wild Center". There is a no trash service available on the property and campers are expected to remove their trash. There is a public transfer station located on North Little Wolf Rd that is open everyday except Thursdays and Sundays.
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Moss & Stone Creek

18. Moss & Stone Creek

100%
(10)
20mi from Saranac Lake · 2 sites
Private Adirondack Creekside Camping In Tupper Lake ACTIVE DUTY AND RETIRED VETERANS STAY FREE 🇺🇸 please let us know upon booking Escape to your own secluded forest sanctuary nestled along a crystal-clear mountain brook in the heart of the Adirondacks. Moss & Stone Creek is a private creekside campsite surrounded by towering hemlocks, moss-covered boulders, and the soothing sound of flowing water. This peaceful woodland retreat offers a rare opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Spend your days lounging in hammocks, exploring the forest, cooling off in the creek, gathering around the campfire, or simply relaxing to the sound of the stream beneath a canopy of evergreens. At night, enjoy dark skies, crackling fires, and the quiet magic that makes the Adirondacks unforgettable. Perfect place to stargaze!
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Jay Mountain Vista

19. Jay Mountain Vista

92%
(24)
20mi from Saranac Lake · 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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Mountaineer Family Camp @Massawepie

20. Mountaineer Family Camp @Massawepie

98%
(95)
25mi from Saranac Lake · 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 Greater Finger Lakes Council, Scouting 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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Saranac Lake camping guide

Where to go

High Peaks

South of Saranac Lake, the famous High Peaks are the headline act of the Adirondacks region. This is hiking heaven, with rugged trails crisscrossing the 46 mountain peaks, magnificent views across the forested valleys, and summits reaching up to 5,344 feet. Come prepared if you want to camp out—backcountry campsites are remote with minimal facilities, or you can venture off-piste and pitch your tent in the wilderness. 

North-Western Lakes

Lakes, rivers, and forest-fringed wetlands speckle the landscapes north of Saranac Lake. Escape the crowds to paddle around the Saint Regis Canoe Area, where some primitive campsites can only be reached by water. Further west, there’s a state campground at Cranberry Lake, and the surrounding hiking trails can also be explored by snowmobile in the winter months. 

Western Adirondacks

South of Saranac, the lively resort town of Long Lake is the gateway to the 14-mile-long lake, a popular spot for boat cruises, seaplane flights, and water sports. Check into one of the state or private campgrounds at Long Lake or neighboring Raquette Lake. Continuing west, there’s great backcountry camping in the Moose River Plains.

When to go

Anytime is a good time to visit Saranac Lake. May through August sees the biggest crowds, and the summer season is the ideal time to swim and get on the water. In fall, the forested shores transform with a rainbow of foliage, affording some of the best leaf-peeping in the Adirondacks, while in springtime, daffodils bloom throughout town. In February, the 10-day Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is one of the region’s most popular events.

Know before you go

  • Saranac Lake has grocery stores, restaurants, cafés, and shops selling camping and fishing supplies. 
  • Tick season runs from April through September in the Saranac Lake region, so cover up when hiking and check for ticks after outdoor activities.
  • There’s no fee to enter Adirondack Park, but state campgrounds charge a fee and many require reservations. A New York State Fishing License is required for fishing.
  • Backcountry camping is allowed on state forest land through Adirondack Park, but you can’t camp within 150 feet of any road, trail, or body of water unless otherwise marked.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Saranac Lake, you can hike or bike along the Saranac River, paddle between the three lakes by canoe or kayak, play a game of golf, try snowshoeing or ice fishing, or hit the ski slopes at Mt Pisgah. You can also explore different options for camping near Saranac Lake on Hipcamp.

Yes, there are state campgrounds nearby, plus ‘lean-tos’ for hikers in Saranac Lakes Wild Forest. You can also explore different options for camping near Saranac Lake on Hipcamp.

Anytime is a good time to visit Saranac Lake. May through August sees the biggest crowds, and the summer season is the ideal time to swim and get on the water. In fall, the forested shores transform with a rainbow of foliage, affording some of the best leaf-peeping in the Adirondacks, while in springtime, daffodils bloom throughout town. In February, the 10-day Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is one of the region’s most popular events.

South of Saranac Lake, the famous High Peaks are the headline act of the Adirondacks region, offering hiking heaven with rugged trails crisscrossing the 46 mountain peaks. North of Saranac Lake, there are lakes, rivers, and forest-fringed wetlands, and further west, there’s great backcountry camping in the Moose River Plains. You can also explore different options for camping near Saranac Lake on Hipcamp.

Yes, a New York State Fishing License is required for fishing in Saranac Lake.

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

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