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Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites are located in the Adirondack Mountains near New York. The terrain consists of forested areas with trails leading to nearby peaks and lakes. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 75°F in summer, and visitors can explore attractions like Mount Marcy and Avalanche Lake.

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Location

Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.15906022 N
73.95130075 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


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2 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2016

Mt. Marcy camping

We camped here for a few nights in one a lean-to for a group trip and it was absolutely amazing! The scenery was gorgeous and there were lots of nice hikes around.

  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Isabel D., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Isabel D., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Isabel D., September 30, 2016
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Reviewed Sep. 14, 2016

backcountry camping

This campground is conveniently located near the trails for Mt. Marcy, Mt. Colden, and Avalanche Pass. Everything is first come first serve. You can sleep in one of four lean-tos, or set up a tent at one of the other marked sites. On summer weekends, all the sites can fill up pretty quickly by Friday night.

It's a really lovely area. But don't expect facilities - this is backcountry camping. No toilets or piped water. No firepits, and you cannot start fires here - bring your stove. Bring your own bear canister.

  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Eric K., September 14, 2016
  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Eric K., September 14, 2016
  • Review photo of Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites by Eric K., September 14, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Marcy Dam campsites?

Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites offer basic wilderness accommodations with four lean-tos available for overnight use. Beyond the lean-tos, there are multiple marked tent sites for camping. As a backcountry location, amenities are minimal - there's no running water, electricity, or flush toilets. Pit toilets may be available near the camping area. All water must be filtered or treated before drinking. There are no trash services, so visitors must pack out all garbage. The area provides access to natural features rather than developed facilities, keeping with its wilderness character.

What permits or regulations do I need to know for camping at Marcy Dam?

Camping at Marcy Dam operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations available. All backcountry camping in the Adirondack High Peaks region requires campers to follow Leave No Trace principles. Groups must be limited to 9 people or fewer. Camping is only permitted at designated sites, and you must camp at least 150 feet from water, trails, and roads unless at a designated site. Bear canisters are required for overnight food storage in the Eastern High Peaks. During busy summer weekends, sites fill quickly by Friday afternoon, so midweek or early arrival is recommended.

Where are the backcountry campsites at Marcy Dam located?

The Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites are located approximately 2.3 miles from the Adirondak Loj trailhead near Lake Placid, NY. The sites are situated around the Marcy Dam area in the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness. These designated campsites include four lean-tos and several marked tent sites scattered throughout the vicinity of the dam. The camping area sits at a trail junction that provides access to multiple High Peaks trails, positioning campers strategically for wilderness exploration in multiple directions.

How far is Marcy Dam from Mount Marcy and what hiking trails connect them?

Marcy Dam is approximately 4.4 miles from the summit of Mount Marcy. From the dam, hikers typically follow the Van Hoevenberg Trail, which serves as the most direct route to Mount Marcy's summit. This main trail is well-marked and maintained, though challenging with significant elevation gain. The trail system from Marcy Dam also connects to other notable destinations including Mt. Colden and Avalanche Pass. The strategic location of Marcy Dam makes it an ideal basecamp for hikers planning to summit Mount Marcy as a day hike without carrying full packs the entire distance.