Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Carthage, NY has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Carthage, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$53 - $116 / night
The 6,700-acre Stillwater Reservoir is located in the western Adirondacks, and provides undeveloped, remote camping on both islands and along the shoreline. The Reservoir offers a multitude of recreational possibilities including remote wilderness camping, canoeing, boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The area receives considerable use during each of the four seasons.
During recent years, popularity of the Stillwater Reservoir has greatly increased. In an effort to alleviate some of the problems and preserve remote camping opportunities, campers are now required to use only designated sites, along the shoreline or to camp at least 150 feet inland from high-water mark. The high-water mark is generally that point where the sand beaches end and the forested or vegetative area begins.
Camping on sand beaches is no longer permitted. Camping within 150 feet of the high-water mark is limited to 46 sites designated and marked by the department. Camping beyond the 150 feet limit, as in past years, is relatively unrestricted. The intention here is to move camper use back from the water's edge to less fragile sites. The only exception is to the north of the Reservoir, which is in the Five Ponds Wilderness, where group sizes are limited to nine people or less.
Camping beyond the 150-foot perimeter remains relatively unrestricted, except for five Ponds Wilderness. That is, persons may use any site or open area for camping, provided it is more than 150 feet from the high-water mark, roads, trails or any other body of water. Furthermore, campers must comply with department regulations governing the use of state lands. These regulations will be posted at the registration booth at the Forest Ranger Headquarters and may also be found on the reverse side of the Interior Use Camping Permit. As the designated sites become filled, users are urged to camp within the Independence River Wild Forest Area on the south.
Campfires are allowed, but only dead and downed fuel may be used. The use of trail stoves is encouraged because of limited supplies of wood.
The Old Forge Camping Resort is a year-round campground nestled on Lake Serene amid the Adirondacks Mountains in Old Forge, New York State. This versatile campground provides heated cabins and cottages as well as RV and tent sites. Boat rentals, a camp store, outdoor games, playground and friendly, helpful staff guarantee you a delightfully memorable camping experience. We are located next door to Enchanted Forest Water Safari waterpark for splashing summer fun. Take advantage of our year-round Adirondack lodging package offers and themed special events. Bring your groups to regenerate with meetings, team-building, special events, and occasions and you will agree that there is nothing like New York State camping!
Located in the Black River Wild Forest, this campground has 112 campsites, picnic area, a large beach with lifeguards and more than 5 miles of hiking trails. The park abuts a 205-acre shallow lake closed to motor boats, which makes this serene location great for canoeing, kayaking, or swimming. And don't forget that fish pole, because the fishing is great too. If paddling around at dusk trolling for that lunker bass or brown trout, listening to the sound of the loons, and watching the sun set sounds a little too relaxing for you then how about a modern ADA Accessible playground for the little ones, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball and more than 3 miles of paved roads for the biker or jogger. Whatever you choose to do with your time here, take time out to observe the abundant wildlife. Whitetail deer are everywhere and friendly. Just minutes away you can enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of McCauley Mountain to view Fulton Chain of lakes or drive into Old Forge and visit the multitude of shops and fine restaurants along Main Street. And once you visit Old Forge, you will have to spend at least one day at the Enchanted Forest / Water Safari. Whether your day is filled with one of the many activities available here or you chose to just sit back and enjoy the campfire, you can always start or end your day with a hot shower in one of our brand-new state of the art ADA Accessible restrooms. Amenities 112 tent and trailer sites, picnic pavilion rental, picnic area with tables and fireplaces, flush toilets, hot showers, ball field, trailer dump station, recycling center, mobility impaired accessibility, sand beach, swimming area, bathhouse, playground, nature trail with 14 educational stations, hiking trails, fishing, bicycling, volleyball, basketball, and softball. Featured Activities Boating two colorful kayaks in the water No motor boats allowed. Rowboats and canoes allowed. Fishing Fish in the area include: brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, bass, white sucker, yellow perch, brown bullhead, common sunfish, golden shiner, blacknose dace, creek chub, and common shiner. Hiking The Nicks Lake Trailhead can be accessed within the campground. The Nicks Lake Trail provides access to the 122,000+ acre Black River Wild Forest and it's extensive trail system. Swimming Designated swimming areas are available at some DEC facilities. Based on staffing, some of these facilities may have limited swimming hours/days. For the safety of our customers, swimming will only be permitted when a lifeguard is on duty. Beach hours will be posted at facilities with swimming. To inquire, please contact the campground directly.
Cranberry Lake Campground features an accessible picnic area, rest rooms, shower house, accessible tent and RV campsites and an accessible fishing pier. It is located in a picturesque wooded setting alongside Cranberry Lake.
One of the largest remote lakes in the Adirondacks and it's proximity to 50,000 acres of wilderness, intermingled with 50 miles of well developed trails makes Cranberry Lake the outdoor enthusiasts perfect vacation spot. Whether it's fishing, boating or just laying back and enjoying your well deserved vacation, Cranberry Lake is the spot for you. The lake has been stocked with trout in the past and many of the ponds, streams and rivers support excellent trout fishing. The perfectly formed forest canopy in the campground provides excellent shade on hot summer days while the undergrowth provides excellent privacy for campers. From Cranberry Lake to other Adirondack Campgrounds requires only a short trip on a major highway.
$53 - $116 / night
The Old Forge Camping Resort is a year-round campground nestled on Lake Serene amid the Adirondacks Mountains in Old Forge, New York State. This versatile campground provides heated cabins and cottages as well as RV and tent sites. Boat rentals, a camp store, outdoor games, playground and friendly, helpful staff guarantee you a delightfully memorable camping experience. We are located next door to Enchanted Forest Water Safari waterpark for splashing summer fun. Take advantage of our year-round Adirondack lodging package offers and themed special events. Bring your groups to regenerate with meetings, team-building, special events, and occasions and you will agree that there is nothing like New York State camping!
Located in the Black River Wild Forest, this campground has 112 campsites, picnic area, a large beach with lifeguards and more than 5 miles of hiking trails. The park abuts a 205-acre shallow lake closed to motor boats, which makes this serene location great for canoeing, kayaking, or swimming. And don't forget that fish pole, because the fishing is great too. If paddling around at dusk trolling for that lunker bass or brown trout, listening to the sound of the loons, and watching the sun set sounds a little too relaxing for you then how about a modern ADA Accessible playground for the little ones, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball and more than 3 miles of paved roads for the biker or jogger. Whatever you choose to do with your time here, take time out to observe the abundant wildlife. Whitetail deer are everywhere and friendly. Just minutes away you can enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of McCauley Mountain to view Fulton Chain of lakes or drive into Old Forge and visit the multitude of shops and fine restaurants along Main Street. And once you visit Old Forge, you will have to spend at least one day at the Enchanted Forest / Water Safari. Whether your day is filled with one of the many activities available here or you chose to just sit back and enjoy the campfire, you can always start or end your day with a hot shower in one of our brand-new state of the art ADA Accessible restrooms. Amenities 112 tent and trailer sites, picnic pavilion rental, picnic area with tables and fireplaces, flush toilets, hot showers, ball field, trailer dump station, recycling center, mobility impaired accessibility, sand beach, swimming area, bathhouse, playground, nature trail with 14 educational stations, hiking trails, fishing, bicycling, volleyball, basketball, and softball. Featured Activities Boating two colorful kayaks in the water No motor boats allowed. Rowboats and canoes allowed. Fishing Fish in the area include: brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, bass, white sucker, yellow perch, brown bullhead, common sunfish, golden shiner, blacknose dace, creek chub, and common shiner. Hiking The Nicks Lake Trailhead can be accessed within the campground. The Nicks Lake Trail provides access to the 122,000+ acre Black River Wild Forest and it's extensive trail system. Swimming Designated swimming areas are available at some DEC facilities. Based on staffing, some of these facilities may have limited swimming hours/days. For the safety of our customers, swimming will only be permitted when a lifeguard is on duty. Beach hours will be posted at facilities with swimming. To inquire, please contact the campground directly.
Scout
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. Fire pit at the site and a bathroom across the way from the first site.
Legend
We stayed at Swan Bay Resort in Alexandria Bay, NY, for our last trip this year. Spoiler alert… we had a great stay!
This is a great park. It’s an easy mile from I-81 and just 10-minutes drive to Alexandria Bay downtown. The staff was great— friendly and helpful. Our waterfront pull-IN site was a level concrete pad and gravel with FHU and everything worked great. Oh, and the best part was our view of the St. Lawrence River with passing ocean liners and lots of migrating birds.
The park has 2 swimming pools, a tiki bar, a food truck, and nice communal hang-out areas. There’s a marina with pontoon boat rentals. They put on Octoberfest during our stay which featured a live band and food and craft vendors.
There are plenty of restaurants and stores nearby. Adjacent to the entrance is a self-service car wash with bay large enough for motorhomes.
I have nothing bad to say about this place and encourage you to visit when you can.
Legend
We came to this campground after a week in Algonquin Provincial park in Canada and the contrast couldn't have been greater. Up north we stayed on a large, shady site in a radio free loop and everyone had canoes. In New York we had a cramped, open site and everyone seemed to have a motorboat on a trailer. Our neighbors across the road set up a movie screen . The overall feel was NOT "getting away from it all".
The facilities are good and there's a nice beach and well stocked General store, also a big boat ramp facility with some docks.
We chose this location because we were attending the Antique Boat Show in Clayton, 13 miles away, and this was the closest available. It suited us just fine for that.
Keep your stuff secure, there are brazen raccoons.
Guide
Stayed here one night and it was super quiet and dark 8pm until we woke up. I hammocked right next to the water of Cranberry Lake. It has showers with hot water, which is timed and high pressure. Checkout was at 10am
Scout
A great park on Sandy Pond and Lake Ontario. Mostly Permanent sites with 6 transient sites overlooking the marina. The park has a nice pool, pavilion, store and kids playground with a basketball court. Great area for fishing, bass, trout, salmon and walleye. Very clean and well maintained park.
Guide
This was our first time here, and we were looking forward to a relaxing visit. The sites were very large and well spaced out, with a beautiful fire ring. The bathrooms were clean. This campground got a 3/5 mainly because quiet hours are not enforced. Unfortunately, people were up blaring radios until approximately 3 am, being roudy. At approximately 2 am, someone decided it would be a good idea to do burnouts with their diesel truck, and went around the camp loop twice, doing just that. Vehicles were driving by the campsites all night long. This is naturally not entirely the campgrounds fault, but it was unfortunate to be misled by the campground rules. On a positive note, the campground is dog friendly, in certain areas, with proof of rabies vaccination, of course. Overall, I would say that this campground is geared more toward the RV and trailer crowd.
Ranger
Pulled in on a Thursday afternoon and found a single camp site. While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added.
The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail.
It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful.
Traveler
Easy drive and nice for a free spot in the Adirondacks. Super private sites, we’ll spaced. Gave us some weird vibes though, these woods definitely have a strange energy about them.
Scout
Took me five hours to drive there but finally made it. It was nice and peaceful. I will go there again
Guide
The roads are through the campground are very tight making backing into a spot very difficult. There was very little grass around the sites, mainly dirt. They also charge for every extra activity. In general just too tight for my liking.
RangerI'm not used to seeing so many druggies in a state park: they typically can't afford a state park. I pulled in and my site was free on both sides. Then a small car pulled in and a woman sat on the picnic table chain-smoking cigarettes. A little later a pick up truck showed up with three more people. A little later another vehicle showed up with more people. I think at one point there were at least five people, but you couldn't tell if it was a family or, some strange tribe. Well, they camped right under my window and proceeded to burn fallen sticks and branches and whatever they could find. They came and left a lot probably to get drugs.
Guide
Unfortunately when we arrived at southwick the rangers & staff had all gone home so we were unable to get a map or check in. We went to our camp site & there were people playing very loud music until about 12am, no rangers around the say anything about quiet hours so I had to. Sites are on top of eachother & there’s no boarders inbetween, fine for some people but not for me. After it rained one night our site & others around us were completely flooded. The beach area & bathhouses we’re nice though so that helped the stay not be a complete wash
Scouta 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road. Pretty cool! Surprisingly the place wasn't that populated as I expected it to be. I went to a accessible campsite near the dam so I can pull stuff i needed from my car. The restaurant in the town had great food, the staff were nice, and had two cute dogs!
Scout
Add this stop when visiting the Adirondacks! This was the perfect spot located on Cranberry lake -They have everything you need at their lakeside store, including boat and kayak rentals! The lake was beautiful, the campground was quiet and we had the best view of the stars at night (we were there during a meteor shower). You can tell the campers truly love this place and had nothing but great things to say about the owners. We will be back again soon
ScoutBeautiful lakeside campsites, Birch’s has a super convenient store that is stocked with anything you may have forgotten.. along with some easy bites and fresh Sammies. Best part was meeting the mascot pup, Brodie. We met some regulars and some passer through-ers, loved the community here! I can’t wait to go back!
Legend
I've just recently started camping in the ADKs and love this campground. it is huge, clean and well maintained. There are a surprising amount of bathhouses and a trash facility on the way out. All sites have fire pits and some have enough trees for hammocks, but it is easier if you have a hammock stand. I used my Tensa4.
LegendMoose River Plains is an amazing place to camp. there are so many sites. the only issue is it is getting a little overused and people need to clean up after themselves more.
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. Every site has a pit house and fire ring.
ScoutWow, stumbled upon this little gem this past August!! Always lived in the South so, wanted to explore somewhere different and what a great choice! Birches had everything we wanted, small town feel(as in everyone we met was super friendly), all the necessities, the charm, the views, the food and comfort. We will be back next year as long as they have room. This is one of those places you don’t want too many people to find out about, that way you always get a spot hahaha
Legend
This campground is 4 different loops- A loop is like the loop for people here for fishing, B loop is the mellower crowd, and C and D were our nightmares: mass chaos, children running amok, loud groups, no thanks. Apparently C and D are always booked and full, because people like that it’s closest to the beach trail, the playground, and the camp store. We chose a site in loop B and were happy with our choice. None of the sites at the campground have any privacy from your neighbor, you’re all sort of camped in a big circle. Sites 66 and 67 are the exception that we saw, they’re off together to the side and would be a good choice for two groups camping together.
There are dumpsters here, and there’s recycling for redeemable bottles and cans only, with proceeds going to the campground’s rec center. That was the most recycling I’ve seen offered at a NY state park campground yet, at least it’s something.
All sites are electric, some are 30 and some are 50amp. There’s a nice new dump station with several dumps and potable water. Good cell reception for both Verizon and ATT. NY State campgrounds require proof of rabies vaccinations for your dogs.
LegendCool, free camping in the Adirondacks. The road to get here is ok, definitely manageable in a smaller RV, you’d just have to take it slow. We did fine in our 26ft class c. There’s a sign-in box at the entrance, for purposes of gauging usage and also for emergencies.
Each site is marked with a little yellow number placard. Each site has such a different layout, but each one has a picnic table, fire pit, and your very own, surprisingly clean, outhouse. We only stayed here one night, in site 121A, but I’d recommend staying longer than that, if only because the road to the camp sites is so long.
There isn’t much hiking or walking paths around here, but the roads aren’t very busy so you can walk along those to get to the hiking trails that are here. I don’t believe the trailheads had any parking space, so watch for that on your way in if you want to drive to the hike.
No cell service
TravelerExceeded expectations!! This place has it all, especially being as remote as it is. (Laundry facilities, fishing, firewood, quaint general store for supplies and fuel) We thoroughly enjoyed out time here, there were kids on site, boat rentals and extremely nice seasonal campers.. The campers became our friends, they were all willing to help from the moment of our arrival, even shared fishing spots on the lake! Lots to do here between the lake and public beach/tennis courts within walking distance. Star gazing is FANTASTIC!
LegendJake from the Dyrt here! Birch's Lakeside Campground has all the amenities needed to enjoy a stay in upstate New York, a general store, laundry & propane on site keep everything you need right there! Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!
Scout
Seasonal camper since 2011. On July 1st my wife and I along with a few others were struck by lightning. Owner made no effort to reach out to anyone and see how they were. I made our disappointment known and for that we were thrown out. Used the worst language you could imagine in front of our kids. Called us all miserable fucks and told us we could get the fuck out now. I don’t need your bullshit. Family oriented campground? It’s to bad you have to give any stars.
ScoutWe have been camping here Seasonal for 12 years. On July 1,2023 myself and husband we struck by lightning. My kids seeing this happening. 911 was called we were transported to the hospital. We thank all EMTS and Staff for everything they did for us! Both EMT from 2 different agencies stated they would like maps of the park as they never know where to go once in there. The Owner of this campground went onto another media platform bragging about how great everything was handled which it was. My husband and myself both commented our thanks and appreciation. Not once did the owner reach out via text, phone call, email and driving by our site looking the other way did he check on us! My husband and myself commented on this platform stating this! We were truly disappointed with the owner. The owner commented back to us that he was on our deck speaking with myself! He was not speaking with me as I was in the camper getting medical attention. He has no clue who his Seasonal campers are! Fast forward to getting our contract renewal we did not receive one after 12 years. We went to try to speak with the owner as we approached he started screaming get off my property or I’m calling the cops. Now my kids were with us watching this happen he went on to call us miserable fucks amongst many other nasty names! Then proceeded to text me harassing messages. Needless to say my kids could have lost both of their parents and they watched us get struck by lightning then watched him call us nasty names!! The owner is very unstable. Just one of the harassing messages I received from him! I was literally on your front porch checking on you BEFORE the paramedics even arrived. As you clearly stated, there were several people in and out of your camper checking on you, leaving no room for me to even enter. So, I stayed out of the way while making sure paramedics could get to you and the others. The paramedics official report shows that both of you went to the hospital ONLY as a precaution. So, Stop evolving your story to justify your undertones of bitterness. So, STOP playing the victim that I was rude and angry when you were on my front porch after you were so utterly disrespectful to me, my staff, and other seasonals. STOP complaining that I never got to know you and your children. Spin that one around. Why didn’t you come to any of the events we put together and be friendly and chatty with me? Tons of other seasonals do. Furthermore, try complaining to the CEO of Walmart that he doesn’t know who you are or what you look like. I have absolutely no need to approach any guest as long as they are happy and they aren’t bothering anyone.“The Owner” and“This Place”.“Take a minute out of his day”. I refuse to allow anyone in my park that has such underlying hate. Please have your seasonal friends throw their temper tantrums at me as well so I can kick them out as well if they’re going to behave like you.
Traveler
nice place to sleep. good for someone who doesn’t want something too off the road. when you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road.
GuideA big park right on the St Lawrence. Sites are concrete and level. WiFi was ok. Washrooms were clean and adequate. From waterside sites you can see vessels on the seaway. There are a lot of rules!
GuideSites are large level concrete. You can watch ships on the seaway from the front
Camping near Carthage, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Carthage, New York, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Carthage, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Carthage, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 94 campgrounds and RV parks near Carthage, NY and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Carthage, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carthage, NY is Wellesley Island State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carthage, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Carthage, NY.
What parks are near Carthage, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Carthage, NY that allow camping, notably White Mountain National Forest and Blue Mountain Lake.
