Alder Lake, near New York, is a charming spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With a mix of tent, RV, and glamping options, it caters to a variety of camping styles, making it a flexible choice for your outdoor adventures.

The campground is known for its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long week. Visitors have praised the hiking trails around the lake, with one camper noting, “The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk.” You’ll find picnic tables and fire pits at the sites, ideal for evening gatherings under the stars.

If you’re up for some exploration, the area offers great hiking opportunities, including a trail that leads to the Balsam Lake fire tower, which boasts stunning views. Just keep in mind that the campground can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a smart move. Whether you’re here for a quiet retreat or some fun by the water, Alder Lake has plenty to offer.

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.

Alder lake

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Margaretville. Margaretville is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Margaretville. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Margaretville

The Best Camping Near Margaretville, New York

We arrived here early afternoon, which ended up being perfect timing as we could set up everything and catch sunset by the fire. The place is pretty easy to access with paved road the whole way there except for the last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy. Some might say 4*4 but we made it just fine in our little Camry. There are two campsites located right outside of the park where you can park your car next to your tent but we opted to hike in. The first spot is less than 1/2 mile down the path, with the next three in the next mile. The campsites are very spacious with lots of room between you and other campers, and have a fire pit and some have picnic tables. We had a stellar time just hiking down the path and relaxing by the water. There’s no noise at night apart from the running water of the stream and we had a very peaceful weekend. We’re most definitely returning!

One of our favorites!!

Was able to tent fairly close to the lot. No cell service. If you bring a handsaw youll be good for firewood. Bugs were pretty bad. Awesome sunrise.

Very nice lake with dispersed sites

Beautiful hiking and camping area. Loved our first experience here… will visit again! 

Peaceful and humble 

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. 

Beautiful weekend campsite

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.

Very disappointing camping experience 

Beautiful scenery and nice place to camp. 

Peaceful and beautiful 

Love this place will definitely be back, not sure why it didn’t show up for free camping when I had it filtered, found it on another app. Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it. It’s a single camper site at the top of the hill left before the trailhead parking. 

Photos of Alder lake

Real photos from real campers