The Adirondack Park's Blue Mountain Lake sits at 1,800 feet elevation surrounded by peaks that reach 3,750 feet. This higher elevation region experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, with night temperatures often dropping 15-20 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months. The campsites near Blue Mountain Lake consist of both established campgrounds with facilities and more remote primitive sites accessible only by boat or trail.
What to do
Paddle the interconnected waterways: At Forked Lake Campground, visitors can access multiple paddling routes. "We boated in to our site with a kayak and a canoe with our supplies... There was a bear den close to our site that was pretty cool," notes Caitie S., highlighting the wilderness experience available.
Hiking various difficulty levels: The campsites around Lake Durant Campground offer direct trail access. "There are 2 trail heads located in the campground that offer more trails as you go. Neither was very difficult and the end result was worth the hike," explains Michael G., who spent a week exploring the area.
Island camping experiences: For a unique overnight option, Indian Lake Islands Campground offers boat-only access to sites. "Visit with a kayak or canoe and camp on your own private island! You can also camp on the land, which would still be pretty, but there's really nothing like having your own island," shares Amber A., highlighting the exclusivity of these sites.
What campers like
Remote camping options: The Moose River Plains area provides free designated sites along a 22-mile forest road. "Sites are numbered, flat, and contain a picnic table, fire ring, and privy. Road through has had some work, making the drive nice and easy," reports Ann M., describing the area's accessibility despite its remoteness.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. As one camper at Brown Tract Pond noted, "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."
Newly renovated facilities: Several campgrounds have updated their amenities. A visitor to Lake Durant mentioned, "The shower facilities were brand new and always clean as were the bathrooms throughout the entire campground. The garbage and recycling facility is quite serious and is better than my town offers."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity varies by location, with some campgrounds enforcing strict protocols. At Brown Tract Pond, "Odd bear rules that basically make you pack up your site when not in use, unless you have a trailer or RV. No bear proof lockers to help out like federal campgrounds."
Bug seasons to avoid: Black flies can be particularly troublesome in late spring to early summer. "We went during peak black fly season and got eaten alive though and decided to pack it up early," reports a visitor to Forked Lake, suggesting mid-to-late summer visits may be more comfortable.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal to no connectivity. "No cell service or WiFi. No hookups," notes a camper at Brown Tract Pond Campground, emphasizing the disconnected nature of the experience.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Many lakes in the region feature gradual entry points ideal for children. At Lake Eaton, "Super sandy bottom that stays shallow for a ways out," making it "arguably the cleanest lake in the Adirondacks," according to Kelly H.
Ranger programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities for younger visitors. At Lake Eaton Campground, "There was a really fun ranger activity they earned badges from. We all left very happy campers but sad to leave the mountains," shares Sandy T. about her grandchildren's experience.
Rental equipment availability: Many locations offer on-site boat rentals, eliminating the need to transport equipment. "We rented a canoe from Adirondack river rentals and could launch directly from our site," notes a Golden Beach visitor, describing the convenience for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Golden Beach Campground, "The campsites inside the park are very crowded so make sure you get one on the road. They are roomier and spaced apart," advises Lee W.
Road condition awareness: Forest roads leading to more remote sites require careful navigation. For Moose River Plains, one RVer suggests: "The main road through is a little rough, take it slow and you should get through with any vehicle, but I would recommend only high clearance 8" plus vehicles."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "The park offers showers, bathrooms and a dump station," notes a visitor to Eighth Lake, information particularly relevant for those traveling in RVs with holding tanks requiring periodic emptying.
