Adirondack campgrounds near Childwold offer varied accommodations ranging from tent sites to luxury glamping structures in forested settings. Most campgrounds in this region operate from mid-May through early September, with some facilities providing year-round access. The area sits within the western portion of the Adirondack Park at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, characterized by interconnected waterways and mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Paddle the quiet waterways: At Buck Pond Campground, non-motorized boats provide the best way to explore. "This campground is peaceful and lovely. There are no motorboats allowed on the lake, so the water is perfect for paddling. They have canoes and kayaks for rent as well," notes Angela.
Explore hiking trails: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake serves as an excellent base for hiking. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," says Hannah O. The trails range from easy lake loops to challenging mountain ascents.
Disconnect completely: For those seeking true isolation, Stillwater Reservoir offers remote camping. "It was nice and peaceful. I will go there again," reports Debbie T. Most sites require boat access, with only one vehicle-accessible site available.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites at Meacham Lake Campground provide direct water access. "We loved having our own private 'beach,'" shares The Other Kim K., though she cautions, "However, we found it was extremely boggy! The campground had put down sheets of plywood to help, but still the ground was so soggy."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. John E. from Brown Tract Pond Campground describes, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently spot native wildlife. "WE love staying in a tent! Our family always meet friendly people and falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane," reports Kristina L. about her stay.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have no cell service or internet. Jeffrey B. notes about Rollins Pond Campground, "You have to go all the way through the fairly busy Fish Creek campground to get into Rollins Pond on a dead end road, so don't forget the groceries."
Weather variability: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes. Alex G. advises, "While I have really enjoyed Rollins Pond, I would caution going prior to June unless you are prepared for varying weather. I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow."
Bear safety requirements: Some campgrounds enforce strict food storage policies. Lawrence L. reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Ice cream access: Several campgrounds have ice cream vendors. "Ice cream truck every night. Ice and firewood available. Close store for goods," reports surfycampers about their family stay at Rollins Pond.
Playground facilities: Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday offers multiple play areas. Nicole S. describes, "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. A reviewer mentions, "We had a waterfront site and were able to sit on the beach and watch the sunset, kayak at our leisure, and swim."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Draper's Acres, site layout varies considerably. Brett N. advises, "The campsites can be on top of each other, but if there is space they didn't seem to have any problem relocating at someone's request as we saw one couple do."
Limited hookup availability: Full hookups are rare in the region. Nancy W. shares her experience, "We stayed in a full hook-up site that was plenty long enough for our 45' RV and tow car. The water spigot at our site broke when I was hooking up the water which was then gushing everywhere. Staff were really prompt at coming out and shutting off the water and getting it fixed."
Road conditions: Access roads to many glamping locations near Childwold can be challenging. One reviewer cautions, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."
