Tent campsites near Boonville, New York occupy the western foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, typically situated between 1,200-1,800 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with heavy winter snowfall often exceeding 200 inches annually. Most primitive camping areas remain accessible from late April through October, with several forest locations transforming into snowmobile and cross-country ski destinations during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Stoneys Pineville Campground provides direct river access for fishing enthusiasts. As camper Vito M. notes, it's a "great place on the river" that attracts many salmon fishing enthusiasts. The campground sees regular return visitors specifically for this activity.
Kayaking exploration: Francis Lake offers excellent paddling opportunities in a secluded setting. Elizabeth B. describes it as "totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet" with "great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water." The lake features two access points, with the more hidden point accessible via a hiking trail that follows a small stream under footbridges.
Winter recreation: While summer camping dominates the region, many Boonville area camping locations convert to winter recreation areas. Winona State Forest maintains an extensive network of groomed trails that become popular for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing after the camping season ends.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers remote camping directly on the water. Camper Ashlee C. explains, "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."
Sandbar access: Seventh Lake Primitive Camping provides water-accessible sites perfect for canoe camping. According to Mary B., "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited."
Boat-only destinations: Alger Island Adirondack Preserve requires paddling to reach the campground, creating a unique island camping experience. Benjamin C. describes the appeal: "sites: boat only access. bring water. pack in/pack out. lean to at sites. secluded."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites in the area provide minimal amenities. At Hall Island State Forest, camper Rachel P. explains, "There's not much to them, no facilities or running water, and certainly not as scenic as going up to the Adirondacks; but seemed a decent option for a quick weekend trip."
Site identification: Finding dispersed camping locations can be challenging. A reviewer at Winona State Forest notes, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Water requirements: With most primitive sites lacking drinking water, campers must plan accordingly. Many sites require bringing all water for drinking, cooking and washing. Even campgrounds with limited facilities may not offer potable water sources.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant precipitation throughout camping season. As one camper at Winona State Forest reported, "It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful."
Tips for camping with families
Youth camp options: For families seeking structured activities, Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates offers programming beyond basic camping. Elizabeth B. describes it as "a classic summer youth sleep-away camp on Beaver Lake. Sleeping in cabins with bunk beds, swimming, canoes, and a high ropes course, gathering around the campfire to end the day."
Wildlife awareness: Duck populations frequent some waterfront sites. Prepare children for wildlife encounters and establish clear rules about feeding wildlife. One camper at Alger Island advises, "don't feed the ducks. They will never leave."
Boating safety: Lake sites with busy boat traffic can create safety concerns and noise. Sarah B. from Alger Island explains, "the lake was FILLED with boats" during holiday periods, creating choppy conditions that made paddling challenging.
Tips from RVers
Limited electrical hookups: Few tent campsites near Boonville offer electrical connections for RVs. Those requiring power should specifically seek campgrounds advertising electric hookups, as most primitive sites cannot accommodate power needs.
Site accessibility: Most state forest camping areas have unpaved access roads that may be difficult for larger RVs. Kevin C. at Winona State Forest notes campsites are often "just feet off of Bargy Road" with minimal turnaround space.
