Dispersed camping opportunities surround Au Sable Forks within New York's Adirondack region, with many sites situated at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet where summer temperatures typically range 65-80°F during the day and 45-55°F at night. Most primitive tent campsites near Au Sable Forks, New York require campers to pack bear canisters and practice leave-no-trace principles due to the protected wilderness status. Winter camping remains possible at several locations but demands specialized cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hike mountain trails directly from camp: At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, campers can access multiple mountains without relocating. One camper shares, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," making it convenient for multi-day hiking trips. The trailheads begin directly at the campground boundary.
Fish for multiple species: Valcour Island offers "excellent bass fishing and miles of hiking" according to a camper. The island setting provides unique fishing access points around its perimeter, with boat-in camping serving as a base for anglers.
Experience island camping: Island camping represents a distinctive experience in the region. A camper at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground explains, "There's something novelty about getting in a boat and paddling to your island for the week! We went off season so camping was free!" Rental boats are available through Saranac Lake Marina for those without personal watercraft.
What campers like
Private, secluded campsites: Campers consistently mention privacy as a top feature. At Saranac Lake Islands, a visitor noted, "The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated. At night, you could see other campfires in the distance over the lake." Many sites are separated by natural barriers or water.
Clean facilities at developed campgrounds: While primitive sites dominate the region, developed campgrounds offer welcome amenities. A Mount Philo State Park Campground camper reported, "Bathrooms were very clean. Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30, etc." These facilities provide a middle ground between wilderness and convenience.
Early morning wilderness experiences: Dawn provides special moments at campgrounds near Au Sable Forks. A Mount Philo camper shared, "My favorite part about camping here is getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise." Morning wildlife viewing opportunities increase when fewer people are active on trails.
What you should know
Reservations essential for summer weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake visitor advised, "Would recommend sleeping at the Mt. Marcy dam lean-to's (~2 mile hike in) the night before your hike to beat the crowds." Weekdays typically offer better availability at most sites.
Bear precautions required: Food storage regulations exist throughout the region. At Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites, a camper noted, "Bring your own bear canister. No toilets or piped water. No firepits, and you cannot start fires here - bring your stove." Rangers enforce these regulations with regular site visits.
Vehicle access considerations: Road conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Wilderness Campground warned, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires." Some sites like Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites have specific access notes: "The two track access road is rough and all dirt."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with swimming access: Water activities provide entertainment for children. A Jones Pond camper shared, "Absolutely beautiful the dog loved the water being right there." Sites directly on water bodies allow for easy supervision of swimming activities.
Look for walk-in tent sites for quieter family camping: Some campgrounds offer walk-in sites that provide more separation from other campers. Mount Philo State Park Campground offers walk-in sites that one camper described as having "widely spaced wooded sites and was exceptionally quiet."
Pack extra clothes for temperature swings: Weather changes quickly in the Adirondacks. One camper advised, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours." Layering systems work best for children who may not recognize their own temperature regulation needs.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility at most sites: Few campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Jones Pond, a camper noted, "Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV." Most tent campsites near Au Sable Forks require smaller vehicles or tents.
Consider alternative camping styles: Some campgrounds offer alternatives to traditional RVs. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, "They have cabins, lean-to's, and a handful of cabins available" which provides options for those seeking more shelter without requiring a full RV.
Plan for limited hookups: Electric connections remain scarce in the region. Campers should prepare for dry camping with solar or battery power. Even at developed campgrounds, water and electric hookups are uncommon, with vault toilets being the standard amenity at most locations.
