Dispersed camping options near Eagle Bay, New York extend beyond established campgrounds into more remote areas like Stillwater Reservoir. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,680 feet, this reservoir offers primitive camping on its 46 numbered sites accessible primarily by boat. The Moose River Plains region contains over 100 designated sites along a 22-mile dirt road system. Water access sites are common throughout the area, with many campsites requiring proper food storage due to active wildlife.
What to do
Paddling on motor-restricted waters: At Nicks Lake Campground, the lack of motorized boats creates ideal conditions for paddlers. As one camper noted, "It is too shallow for motors so kayaks and canoes only which makes it very calm and peaceful. It also makes it easier to hear the loon calls."
Winter recreation opportunities: Old Forge Camping Resort maintains winter operations when many other area campgrounds close. "Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available," reports one winter visitor.
Hiking to elevated viewpoints: Trails near camping areas provide access to scenic overlooks. A camper at Nicks Lake Campground mentioned, "Near Old Forge, a popular destination in the ADKs. Lots of trails and water nearby, must be especially beautiful in the fall."
What campers like
Waterfront site privacy: At Limekiln Lake Campground, waterfront sites offer direct lake access with sufficient separation. A visitor explained, "Our site was spacious, with room for two cars, 4 kayaks, and two tents. The site features a picnic table (great condition) and a concrete fire pit (not so great condition, but it worked)."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper at Stillwater Reservoir reported, "The drive up campsite had an outhouse though so that was nice" while another mentioned walking "down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)."
Remote island camping: Alger Island Adirondack Preserve provides boat-in only sites for those seeking isolation. "To get to the campground, you must paddle. The state park allows only car top boats. We kayaked all of our gear out to the island," explains one visitor who managed the logistics of this unique camping experience.
What you should know
Bear activity management: Bear encounters are common across many campgrounds. A visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort cautioned, "Though just moments away from the heart of Old Forge, Nicks Lake provides a nice balance between the hustle and bustle of Main Street and the tranquility of the Adirondacks. You can catch sight of deer or a bear at any moment."
Seasonal insects: Late spring brings significant insect activity. A camper at Moose River Plains warned, "Terrible bug season at the moment (6/12-6/15) with the black flies. Great that you can collect dead, downed wood for a fire to keep the bugs at bay."
Variable road conditions: Access to more remote sites may require appropriate vehicles. About Moose River Plains, a camper advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Supervised swimming areas: Golden Beach Campground offers structured swimming facilities. "The campsites inside the park are very crowded so make sure you get one on the road. They are roomier and spaced apart. Each campsite has its own outhouse and you are close to the water so you can fish or park your boat by your campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. A visitor to Brown Tract Pond Campground described, "As I sat having my coffee, watching steam rise from the pond, I listened to the distant calls of Loons."
On-site recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond water access. A visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort noted, "There is a volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Brown Tract Pond Campground offers a more primitive experience. "No electric or water hook ups (for RVs) and no shower facilities, but there are restrooms," explained one camper about the limitations.
Campground navigation challenges: Larger RVs face access limitations at some campgrounds. A visitor to Singing Waters noted, "We damaged our rig getting to our lot. The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns."
Site leveling considerations: Uneven terrain affects setup at many campgrounds. A camper at Nicks Lake Campground cautioned, "sites: wooded. good privacy. some sites on water. some sites not very flat."
