Tent camping near Dannemora, New York offers primitive and island experiences with limited facilities and maximum solitude. The area sits in the northeastern Adirondack region at elevations ranging from 500-1,500 feet, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day with nighttime lows sometimes dropping to 45-50°F even in July.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline sites: Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers excellent fishing access directly from waterfront sites. One camper reported, "The views from site #4 of the pond were beautiful. We were the only campers during our stay on a weekday."
Explore island trail systems: At Knight Island State Park Campground, hiking trails connect the island's perimeter campsites. A reviewer notes, "It doesn't host a ton of amenities other than outdoor toilets, but it doesn't need to because every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island."
Winter camping options: Unlike most area campgrounds, winter camping is possible at Knight Island with proper permits. A visitor shared, "Knight Island is a summer camping oasis but you can obtain a permit from the Vt. State Parks to winter camp. There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing."
What campers like
Complete isolation: At Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps, the privacy is exceptional. As one camper stated, "This prime location is very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river."
Multi-day island adventures: Many campers enjoy the full island experience at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground. A reviewer shared, "We rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula on the middle saranac. One of the coolest experiences I've ever had in my life- surrounded by nature- water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!"
Family traditions: Many campsites become part of family traditions. At Valcour Island, a camper noted, "I have been camping on this island for just over 30 years, and my father camped there for another 30 prior to that. It is one of my favorite places in the whole world. And now I get to take my kids camping there."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Many primitive sites have rough access roads. At Jones Pond, "The two track access road is rough and all dirt. There are two pit toilets, both primitive, one of which did not have a door when we visited."
Bring sufficient supplies: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. At Woods Island State Park Campground, "Remote area campsites, while beautiful, are not for everybody. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply."
Site reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance reservations while others operate first-come, first-served. For boat-in sites at Saranac Lake Islands, a camper advises, "Love this place. Have gone the last three years, and I have reserved again for August 2018. You'll need a boat or canoe (rentals available in Saranac Lake)."
Seasonal popularity: Holiday periods get extremely busy. A Jones Pond camper noted, "It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite. Which of course would make our dogs bark at them."
Tips for camping with families
Ferry transport options: Burton Island State Park Campground offers family-friendly transportation. A visitor explains, "This is one of my favorite places to camp because it's on an island and just getting there is part of the experience. After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it."
Kid-friendly islands: Burton Island allows for safe exploration. A camper notes, "It's super family friendly - maybe it's because there aren't cars all over the place, but the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant, even in summer. For tent camping with kids at Saranac Lake Islands, a visitor advises, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours. Sites are carry in/carry out."
Dog-friendly options: Many primitive campgrounds allow pets, with some special accommodations. At Burton Island, "Dogs are allowed at Burton Island, but there are areas at the State Park that they are not allowed, such as the beach area. There's even an off-leash dog beach!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Primitive tent camping dominates the Dannemora area with few RV-friendly sites. Only certain Jones Pond sites accommodate larger vehicles: "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."
Vehicle preparation: Off-road capability is essential for accessing remote sites. At Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps, a visitor reported, "If you have a good 4x4 and some driving skills, you can reach the river with your car. You will drive in what looks like an enchanted forest."
Stay duration limits: Many primitive sites have stay restrictions. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, "The sites are on a first come basis and are free to use. You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit."
