Tent camping near Childwold, New York centers around the southern edge of the Adirondack Park, where elevations range between 1,500-2,000 feet creating cooler temperatures even in summer. The region's forest composition includes dense stands of spruce, pine, and hardwoods that provide natural privacy between many primitive sites. Weather can change rapidly in this mountainous terrain, with temperature drops of 30 degrees possible within hours.
What to do
Water activities at secluded ponds: Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites features a hand launch for small boats and kayaks near the entrance. "I came from the Albany area. It took me about two hours 45 minutes and well worth the drive... site five was absolutely beautiful and right on the water, I mean right on the water," reports Robert K.
Island camping adventures: Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground offers a unique camping experience only accessible by boat. "Loved this campground. Pretty much had an entire island to ourselves and got to enjoy the beautiful saranac lake," shares Erin T. Canoe rentals are available in Saranac Lake for those without their own watercraft.
Hiking to backcountry lean-tos: Feldspar Lean-to provides access to Mount Marcy trails. "If you're coming from Marcy Dam by way of Lake Colden, this campsite is a great spot to stop for the night on the way to Mt. Marcy. There's a good water flow for water that is safe to drink," notes Seth K. The site includes one lean-to, three tent sites, and a privy.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Campers appreciate the natural isolation at many Childwold area tent sites. At Tioga Point Campground, "The campground is very secluded and there are lean-to style campsites. You don't have to bring a tent unless you want to. This definitely saves some space in your boat," writes Carrie J.
Wildlife observation: Saranac Lake Islands provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Surrounded by nature, water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish," reports Sambath T. who stayed on a peninsula on middle Saranac.
Natural water sources: Many backcountry sites have reliable water nearby. At Feldspar, Alex R. notes the site is "Great campsite near the river" with "One lean-to and 3 campsites" plus a privy, making it a convenient base for extended wilderness exploration.
What you should know
Permit requirements: For tent camping near Childwold, permits vary by location. At Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites, "Everything is first come first serve. You can sleep in one of four lean-tos, or set up a tent at one of the other marked sites. On summer weekends, all the sites can fill up pretty quickly by Friday night," explains Eric K.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects site availability and conditions. Kurt V. notes about Middle Pond Campsite: "This campsite is a first come first serve site located along Floodwood Road. The site sits on Middle Pond. Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months."
No-fire zones: Some backcountry areas prohibit campfires. At Marcy Dam, "No firepits, and you cannot start fires here - bring your stove. Bring your own bear canister," warns Eric K.
Tips for camping with families
Island camping with kids: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake provides family-friendly tent camping options. "The lean to I had was right on the lake and on the edge of the campground. It's a bit of a trek to a bathroom but well worth it. You can sit and chill by the lake, hike a mountain or hike around the lake," recommends cj J.
Choose sites with pit toilets: For families, bathroom access matters. At Jones Pond, "There are two pit toilets, both primitive, one of which did not have a door when we visited," notes Dylan J., so families should plan accordingly.
Water safety planning: When camping with children near water, prepare for safety. At Saranac Lake Islands, Joanna H. shares, "The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place! The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated."
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Access roads to many Childwold area campgrounds require careful driving. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, one camper warns, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires." This applies even more to RVs.
Limited RV access sites: Most primitive sites near Childwold aren't suitable for RVs, but Jones Pond offers limited options. Dylan J. notes, "Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV."
Pack-in essentials: RV campers should bring all supplies. At Jones Pond, Tyler C. experienced: "Stayed here with a group of friends at site #4. Was a great spot and lots of room for our 4 tents/3vehicles. It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite."
