The Mayfield area sits within the southern edge of the Adirondack Park at approximately 750 feet elevation, offering both lakeside and forest camping options. Water levels at Great Sacandaga Lake change significantly throughout the camping season, with levels generally higher in spring and early summer. Campsites around Mayfield range from heavily wooded forest settings to open lakefront areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Moffitt Beach Campground, visitors can access Lake Speculator for fishing, though locals note that "fish number and sizes are limited due to number of people fishing it on a regular basis." The lake remains popular despite this limitation.
Hiking trails: Several camping areas near Mayfield serve as base camps for Adirondack hiking. Moreau Lake State Park Campground has "over 20 miles in hiking trails," making it convenient for campers who want to explore without driving elsewhere. Some DevilDoc Campsites visitors mention that "hiking is available directly from the campgrounds and connects to nearby trails."
Water recreation: Many camping sites near Mayfield, New York offer water-based activities beyond swimming and fishing. Royal Mountain Campsites includes "social fires by their pond in the evenings," creating community gathering spots. One camper at Sacandaga Campground noted you can "rock hop up and downstream, a dip to cool off, or float downstream" on the river that flows through the property.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the crowded lakefront options mentioned in the existing description, some camping locations near Mayfield offer more secluded experiences. One camper at Sacandaga Campground noted, "the island sites are the best and most private. The main area is good if you want to go with several groups." This campground maintains its status as "a well kept secret" according to another reviewer.
Ice cream access: Royal Mountain Campsites features an unexpected amenity that campers frequently mention. As one visitor described, "The 'office' is an ice cream shop off the side of the road that all the locals apparently love based on lines and what we tasted!" Another camper emphasized the "huge bonus" of the ice cream shop, noting "We both ordered a small and it was near enough to consider a full meal!"
Pond camping: Several smaller campgrounds near Mayfield feature pond settings rather than large lake frontage. At DevilDoc Campsites, one reviewer highlighted camping "up by the pond and exploring all the old relics around the area. Our spot was peaceful and quiet. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of bull frogs, oh and the star gazing is pretty darn nice as well!"
What you should know
Water availability: Unlike the larger established campgrounds, smaller private camping areas may have limited water access. At DevilDoc Campsites, one camper mentioned they "were limited on water so could not dump tanks during our stay, had to travel to another place, a little hassle." Another noted, "There's no running water at the tent sites, but the pond is available and with a carbon water filter, it was delicious."
Seasonal facilities: Several campgrounds offer facilities that operate only during peak season. At Caroga Lake Campground, visitors should know that "the snack bar and gift/supplies shop at the sandy beach area were not open as we were there late in the season."
Variable shower conditions: Even at established campgrounds with modern facilities, shower quality can vary. One Moreau Lake State Park camper noted that "both [restrooms and showers] were clean but the shower fluctuated between lukewarm, hot, and warm during my shower."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Caroga Lake Campground offers a good base for families, with one visitor noting it has "a nice dishwashing and recycling center" and "boat rental" options. The campground connects to a beach area, though "no pets allowed in the beach area."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. Moreau Lake State Park features "a nice playground for kids to enjoy" alongside its beach area and trails, making it versatile for families with children of different ages.
Site spacing considerations: For families needing more room, Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground offers a unique experience. One camper mentioned their site was "next to the creek and relaxed to the quiet sound of water flowing by" while another highlighted the "peaceful wooded campground" where grandchildren "had a great time and love looking and finding Herkimer Diamonds."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup details: At Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground, RV campers should know about the specific electrical amenities. The campground offers 30-amp hookups but not 50-amp service. One camper purchased "firewood that was quite competitive in price compared to local grocery/convenience stores."
Site navigation challenges: RVers at Moreau Lake State Park should prepare for some tight maneuvering. A visitor noted their "campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV" and advised that "Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs."
Leveling considerations: Campers bringing travel trailers to DevilDoc Campsites appreciated that they "used his power source so we were near his home and site was level for the travel trailer. Slept great each night!" This site offers both privacy and practical setup for small to medium RVs.
