Tent camping opportunities in Elizabethtown, New York are situated at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level within the Adirondack High Peaks region. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with overnight lows sometimes dropping into the 40s even during summer months. Campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, as the mountainous terrain can create localized weather patterns.
What to do
Morning hikes from camp: At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, many trails start right from the campground. According to one camper, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground." The trailheads for several major peaks are accessible without moving your vehicle.
Water activities: Several campsites provide access to natural water features for swimming. At Saranac Lake Islands, visitors note, "We jumped from the rocks and swam and played games." The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with one review mentioning "fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!"
Sunset viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer sunset viewing opportunities. At Mount Philo State Park Campground, a visitor shared: "Every night its only a ten minute hike to the summit from where the sites are and you get to watch the sunset over Vermont and lake champlain as the sun falls behind the adirondack mountains."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Privacy is a major appeal for tent campers in the Elizabethtown region. One camper at Saranac Lake Islands noted, "Huge sites, a lot of privacy (nearest campsite in most cases is not even visible)." Another mentioned, "Our island had 4 other campsites on it and we barely saw or heard our neighbors."
Lean-to options: Many backcountry sites offer lean-to shelters as alternatives to tents. A visitor to Feldspar Lean-to reported, "One lean-to and 3 campsites. 2 near the lean-to across the bridge. 1 on the other side." These structures provide reliable shelter during inclement weather.
Water access: Proximity to water sources is valued by tent campers. At Bushnelle Falls Campsite, one review noted it's a "Great campsite near the river and falls." Another visitor to Feldspar mentioned "a good water flow for water that is safe to drink (suggest bringing iodine just in case)."
What you should know
Site availability: Many primitive tent sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. One camper at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake noted, "Despite a rainy week we made the most of the easily accessible mountains and the onsite convenience shop was helpful!" Another mentioned, "It did appear that you would be able to drive in without reservation on a weekday and find yourself a site!"
Weather preparation: The Elizabethtown area experiences significant temperature variations. A camper at Sno-Bird warned, "It's a very high campsite...So it's windy and colder at night." Another review cautioned, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours."
Fire restrictions: Some campsites prohibit open fires. A visitor to South Meadow Campground emphasized, "NO FIRES ALLOWED!" Campers should check specific campground regulations before arrival and bring alternative cooking methods like camp stoves when necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible water features: Look for campgrounds with swimming opportunities for children. A family that visited Mount Philo State Park Campground shared, "We visited and camped here 3 years ago with children. We love how private the camp sites were." They added, "Recommend nearby Charlotte town beach for swimming ($10 for non-residents)."
Noise considerations: Choose sites with reasonable spacing for families. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, a reviewer noted, "Despite rather high density of sites they are well designed and the campground is quiet and dark at night for good rest!" This makes it suitable for families with children who need consistent sleep schedules.
Bathroom facilities: For tent camping with young children, bathroom access matters. One visitor commented, "The facilities are clean and well kept." Another specifically mentioned, "The bathrooms are really nice and warm, especially during the cold off season."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. A motorcyclist visiting Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake warned, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires." RV drivers should research road conditions thoroughly before arrival.
Site slopes: Some campsites have uneven terrain. One RVer noted, "Our site was fairly flat and most were like this but there were some that appeared to have a slope if you happened to be car camping." Larger vehicles should prioritize designated sites known to accommodate their needs.
Alternative transportation: For island camping, alternative transportation is needed. At Saranac Lake Islands, a visitor shared, "Bought a small aluminum boat with a motor and now can bring a lot more gear." RVers can consider parking at designated areas and using boats or canoes to reach island sites.
