Free Camping Collection

Established Camping

Alder lake

6 Reviews

About

New York Department of Environmental Conservation

There are five lean-tos as well as five primitive campsites marked with round, yellow, DEC markers. In addition, primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from the regional office.

Camping is prohibited above 3,500 feet in elevation from March 22 until December 20 each year to protect the fragile summit environment. Campfires are permitted below 3,500 feet in elevation, but only dead and down fuel may be used. In an established campsite, use the existing fire ring. Before you leave, completely extinguish the fire. Never leave a fire unattended. The use of camp stoves is encouraged.

Suggest an Edit

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

WiFi
Unknown
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Unknown
T-Mobile
Unknown

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Picnic Table
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Rent an RV near Margaretville, New York

Find RVs Nearby

Kayla

Scout

Reviewed Apr. 17, 2024

Peaceful and beautiful

Beautiful scenery and nice place to camp.

Month of VisitMay

Colleen J.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2022

Very disappointing camping experience

My husband and I usually backpack but were looking for something a little easier for a short weekend camping trip. We arrived around 11:00 am and the parking lot was already packed and cars were lined up along the road. We grabbed one of the three spots that were left and were amazed at how many large groups were set up at the other spots. None of the camping areas were on the water and only a few had a short path down to the water. The beach was pretty full and there were a ton of people walking the path. We ended up leaving early without even staying the night because it was so packed and pretty loud. If you’re looking for a relaxing, quiet camping experience, this isn’t the place for you.

Month of VisitAugust

Erik C.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 25, 2021

Beautiful weekend campsite

We stayed three nights in late October. Grabbed on of the two vehicle accessible campsites along the road which had some very light traffic. There are several beautiful, secluded hike-in sites along the lake which I would love to return to someday. The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely. We also hiked the balsam lake fire tower which had nice views of the area. Overall a great little spot to camp. Would definitely return.

Month of VisitNovember