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Best Tent Camping near Bakers Mills, NY

664 Reviews

Dispersed tent camping options near Bakers Mills in the Adirondack region of New York include several primitive sites with minimal amenities. Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off offers secluded tent camping with basic fire rings and river access. Cedar River Entrance Camping provides tent sites with pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings for those seeking a slightly more developed camping experience within the Adirondack backcountry. These backcountry tent camping areas provide access to the surrounding forest lands and waterways with varying levels of privacy.

Sites often feature uneven, natural terrain with limited site preparation, requiring tent campers to carefully select their pitching locations. Cod Pond tent sites are accessed via a dirt road that can be difficult to spot from the main highway. Access typically requires small to mid-sized SUVs rather than standard passenger cars, as one camper noted the site was "down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention." Many backcountry tent camping areas in this region lack potable water sources, so filtration equipment is essential. Campers should pack out all trash as disposal facilities are not provided at most primitive tent sites.

Tent-only campsites throughout the region offer varying levels of privacy and natural features. Areas near Cod Pond provide river access down steep embankments, offering pleasant ambient sounds at night. In early summer, bugs can be problematic, so proper preparation is necessary. According to a review on The Dyrt, some sites are "big enough to pull our mid-size SUV down and unfold rooftop-tent, but we did have to back out in the morning; not enough room to turn around." While road noise may be audible at some locations, the dense forest provides visual screening from passing traffic. Most tent camping areas maintain a rustic character with sufficient tree cover for shade and hammock setup, making them ideal for those seeking an authentic Adirondack tent camping experience.

Best Tent Sites Near Bakers Mills, New York (33)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Bakers Mills, NY

664 Reviews of 33 Bakers Mills Campgrounds

  • Rachel P.
    Sep. 8, 2018

    North Lake Resevoir

    North Lake Reservoir

    Not that they would do this place any justice, but I sincerely wish I had pictures. Unfortunately my last visit here was before smart phones were so commonplace. North Lake Reservoir is one of the Adirondack Park’s best kept secrets. Extremely primitive, you must get off Rte 28, heading toward the old Buffalo Head restaurant and passed there, keep going another 30-40 minutes along a dirt/gravel road until you reach N Lake Rd.

    The DEC-run facility offers about 25 primitive sites along North Lake. There is a campers log where you can sign in at the entrance and the sites are dispersed along a long dirt road. A few are drive-in, while many you must park and walk-in. These sites are primitive-no tables, no facilities or running water. Best of all, no generators or electrical hookups for those of us in it to truly be in nature.

    I don’t recall the site number, but we had about a 1/2-3/4 mile hike along a narrow path to the site. It was completely worth it- the site was large and right on the water, completely surrounded by trees and shade. The only sounds came from the occasional boat across the lake and loon calls in the morning.

    Coming here has absolutely been one of my favorite experiences. If you’re adventurous and up for the challenge and seclusion, I highly recommend checking out North Lake Reservoir!

  • John E.
    Jun. 19, 2018

    Brown Tract Pond Campground

    I fell in love with this place

    As I sat having by my coffee, watching steam rise from the pond, I listened to the distant calls of Loons.

    I’d describe this campground as a hidden gem, but it’s not for everyone. To get here you leave the paved road and take a gravel road a little ways. On our way we spotted a group of Turkeys wandering about. This campground is for the adventurous. No electric or water hook ups (for RVs) and no shower facilities, but there are restrooms.

    Staff was friendly and helpful. Helped me pick out a site and made sure I was good once I set up. Bring or rent a Canoe and you can travel out to an island in the middle of the pond from which families jump from a large rock into the lake.

    As the sun sets and the stars come out, you’ll look up and suddenly realize just how small you are as you stare at the heavens and see the Milky Way.

    Nothing but peace and quiet. When it’s quiet hours, the only thing you here is nature and the occasional crackle of someone’s fire.

    Would I go here again? Brown Tract is one of those places that after you go once, you find yourself going again and again. Our tripped was booked as soon as we could.

  • Matthew D.
    Oct. 10, 2018

    Cedar River Entrance Camping

    Cedar River Campground

    Stayed at site number 5, I think. It was by the water in the woods just a little bit. Picnic table, fire ring and several outhouses nearby. Beautiful surroundings. There is a small landing to launch kayaks or canoes. A dam with some additional sites on the other side. Town is about 20-30 minutes away. Several trails nearby. Would recommend.  

    Also would recommend traveling further in if you are looking for more sites.

  • Maribeth W.
    Aug. 30, 2016

    Lake Harris Campground

    Wet but beautiful!

    We got rained out!! Our site did have good drainage and ample tree cover so that helped. Easy access to buy firewood on the road into the campground.

  • Rachel P.
    Oct. 26, 2018

    Nicks Lake Campground

    Nicks Lake Campground

    Though just moments away from the heart of Old Forge, Nicks Lake provides a nice balance between the hustle and bustle of Main Street and the tranquility of the Adirondacks.

    The grounds are a wonderful option for families, not only hosting a number of amenities (i.e. campers beach, hiking trails), but providing opportunities to observe the local wildlife. You can catch sight of deer or a bear at any moment. (Just keep in mind to maintain a safe distance and respect their space!)

    The sites were fairly sized and shaded- my family and I reserved sites 38 and 36 for our brief visit. We enjoyed our stay and are likely to return!

  • Kaylee C.
    Oct. 6, 2021

    Moose River Plains

    Amazing in the Fall!

    Stayed at site 51. It's elevated, clear, has a newer outhouse with toilet seat. The old outhouse was left to the side and we used it to store our firewood (to keep dry). We hammered a nail on the inside of the outhouse to hang the shower bladder. It got cold at night, around 30-40. It was fine though in just warm clothes, sleeping bags and an extra blanket. There a path to the river straight across the lane from the site, for water or swimming. We always use the limekiln entrance which is a bit rocky. I have a Chevy spark though and as long as we go super slow, it's passable. The other entrance (which is super long) does have a smoother pass though. While on this trip, we hiked the lost ponds trail, just down a ways from our site. It's worth the time and effort, full of amazing views! Of you have a lightweight or inflatable kayak, take it because the pond is quite large and there's lots to explore. Just a note if you've never been, be sure to stop at an entrance to sign in - the rangers aren't always around but you're so far in that if anything were to ever happen, you'd want them to have your information. This is a pretty remote area to camp and explore.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2025

    Golden Beach Campground

    Semi-remote along the South Bay

    The Golden Beach campground has two sections: one is the main campground, with the usual state forest amenities including bathrooms, showers and beach, shared with a couple hundred campsites along the east side of Racquette Lake. However, the campground also manages a string of more remotely placed campsites located along the shor of the south bay of Racquette Lake, removed from the main campground and its amenities but with much more space between sites and direct access to the lake. They also are clustered in small spurs directly accessible to Rt 28, which has pluses and minuses. For me, these quieter more rustic sites are preferable, especially with the easy access for canoeing right on the lake. Picnic table, tent site, parking spot and fire ring are all provided, right along the beautiful lake. The smallest spur has only 2 campsites, which is perfect when you want a quiet spot! Big trees, peace and quiet, beautiful Adirondack experience, also not too far from the main campground  and many hiking trails in the area

  • Brett N.
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Draper’s Acres

    Great Location, Solid Amenities

    Or site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The office sells firewood. Both bath houses were adequate, even containing shampoo and body wash. Staff was friendly. Some if the sites are rather close to each other, and the proximity to the road was noticeable but my white noise app dealt with that while I slept. Prices were more than fair for what was provided.

  • Kyle H.
    Sep. 7, 2016

    Sharp Bridge Campground

    Gem just off the Northway

    Checked in on 9/2 for one evening. The guy working the desk was very helpful with wood. The recent delivery of wood was sub-par, but he helped me with extra wood free of charge and fire starter. The campground received 4g LTE service. One of the quietest campsites I've ever stayed at in the Adirondacks.

Guide to Bakers Mills

Tent campsites near Bakers Mills, New York provide access to the remote wilderness of the Adirondack region. Located approximately 25 miles from Lake George at an elevation around 1,500 feet, this area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F. Winter camping requires special preparation with temperatures frequently dropping below 0°F between December and February.

What to do

Hiking accessible trails: Several primitive campsites serve as gateways to hiking routes. Murphy Lake Leanto connects to a technical trail system that requires effort to reach. "The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls... Well marked with blue Trail Blazers, the trail snakes its way through the wilderness," notes one Murphy Lake Leanto visitor.

Water activities: Many dispersed sites offer direct water access. The Cedar River area provides both camping and water recreation opportunities. According to a camper at Cedar River Entrance Camping, "It was by the water in the woods just a little bit. Picnic table, fire ring and several outhouses nearby. Beautiful surroundings. There is a small landing to launch kayaks or canoes."

Winter recreation: While summer remains the peak camping season, winter opportunities exist for experienced backcountry users. The area around Heart Lake maintains year-round access, though winter requires preparation. One March visitor remarked, "My boyfriend and I visited in late March when there was still a decent amount of snow on the site. Despite the lake being frozen over, the views just steps away from our lean to were gorgeous."

What campers like

Natural isolation: Several campsites provide genuine seclusion from crowds. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, the natural setting creates a feeling of remoteness despite proximity to access roads. As one visitor noted, "Highly Reccomend! The directions in the app are accurate -but do keep in mind that the campsite is down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention."

Island camping experiences: For a unique overnight option, the Lake George Islands provide tent camping on water-surrounded sites. "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip," reports a visitor to Long Island Group, highlighting the distinctive island camping atmosphere available within driving distance of Bakers Mills.

River sounds: Several campsites feature proximity to moving water, adding natural soundscapes to the camping experience. According to a Glen Island Group visitor, "Me the wife and our 3 children had an amazing time on our three night stay. Definitely no amenities other than an outhouse but spectacular views and pristine waters. Great fishing, lots of fun to be had on the water and quiet peaceful evening by the campfire."

What you should know

Vehicle requirements: Many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles for access. At Cod Pond, "A car is not reccomended. Possible to turn around but you definitley need a smaller suv." Some areas demand more substantial planning, with one Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake visitor cautioning, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bakers Mills, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bakers Mills, NY is Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Bakers Mills, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 33 tent camping locations near Bakers Mills, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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