Dispersed camping sites near Forestport, New York range from quiet reservoirs to family-oriented campgrounds with recreational activities. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the western Adirondacks, where summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F. The camping season generally spans May through October, with most primitive sites lacking services after mid-October.
What to do
Kayaking on pristine waters: North Lake Reservoir offers exceptional paddling opportunities on clean waters. A camper noted, "The lake this time of year is beautiful and clear and a very nice temperature for dunking in. There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks."
Tubing on local creeks: At HTR Adirondacks, the West Canada Creek provides natural entertainment. One visitor shared, "The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water..rain or shine."
Gem hunting experiences: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA offers unique activities just a short drive from Forestport. A camper explained, "The mines are wonderful also if you'd want to search for your own Herkimer diamonds (clear doubles terminated quartz)."
Stargazing opportunities: The region's dark skies create excellent stargazing conditions. At Delta Lake State Park, a visitor mentioned, "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise... There's a few steps down to a gravel beach and an expansive view of the delta lake."
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Delta Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its waterfront camping spots. A camper commented, "Was here with a camper on a lake accessing site. Sites are fairly big but not completely separated. Having the kayaks were great, there's so much to explore, and town is right down the road."
Spacious wooded sites: Limekiln Lake Campground offers more secluded options. 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... Because the site is surrounded by trees, we hung up multiple hammocks for a very cozy weekend!"
Swimming beaches: Many campgrounds maintain beach areas for family enjoyment. A camper at West Canada Creek Campground shared, "The campground has all amenities necessary to a great camping experience... There's a playground and a beach area. The place is very clean and was decorated for the 4th of July festivity."
Recreational amenities: Family-friendly facilities enhance the camping experience. At Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, a visitor noted, "They offer a children's playground, pool, little grocery store, volleyball area, and of course, the Herkimer Diamond Mine and restaurant, right across the street."
What you should know
Bear-aware camping required: Wildlife encounters are common in the area. At Nicks Lake Campground, a camper advised, "There is a box to keep your garbage or food from the black bears which was nice... There were some pesky bears wandering at night looking for an easy meal. Although if you are careful about your food items they will not even stop at your site."
Seasonal insect considerations: Plan for biting insects, particularly in early summer. A visitor to North Lake Reservoir warned, "The flies are actually pretty horrible—not sure if it's a late year for them or if they're just particularly bad this year, but they were relentless."
Variable facility standards: Bathrooms and amenities vary widely between campgrounds. A Nicks Lake camper observed, "The bathrooms were pretty clean and had ample soap supply in this weird time of COVID. We didn't check out the showers, but they did have them further down by the beach."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal connectivity. A visitor to North Lake Reservoir Campground mentioned, "No cell service" as something to be aware of when staying at this primitive camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Seek campgrounds with planned activities: Old Forge Camping Resort offers structured entertainment for kids. A visitor reported, "Their themed weekends and accompanying activities throughout the season are wonderful. We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things."
Consider heated pools for shoulder seasons: Some campgrounds provide temperature-controlled swimming options. A Kayuta Lake Campground visitor noted, "Did I mention there is a pool? There is. And its HEATED. Which is nice, as we often get up there early or late in the season, and a heated pool is a necessity."
Check for playground facilities: Kid-friendly amenities help keep children entertained. A West Canada Creek Campground visitor shared, "Very nice quiet campground. Bathrooms are a little old but very clean. Had fun shooting archery targets. They also have lazer tag but we didn't participate."
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural encounters create memorable experiences. At Old Forge, a camper mentioned, "Also, the deer are incredible friendly and will walk right up to you."
Tips from RVers
Electrical limitations: Some campgrounds have power constraints. A visitor to HTR Adirondacks warned, "Power sucks. 30amp only but not truly providing that. We kept blowing the breaker and noted our lights flickering. We can easily run on 30amp. This is typical of an overbuilt park with not enough power for the campers onsite."
Site leveling considerations: Prepare for variable site conditions. A camper noted, "The sites are kinda close, so you don't get a ton of privacy, and you can really hear what's going on next door. The roadways can get a little tight between the trees, and can make for some interesting backing in."
Check for full hookups: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Delta Lake State Park, a visitor mentioned, "They have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach. The concession stand at the beach will deliver to your camp site."
Road access cautions: Some sites have challenging access routes. A camper at North Lake Reservoir explained, "Extremely primitive, you must get off Rte 28, heading toward the old Buffalo Head restaurant and passed there, keep going another 30-40 minutes along a dirt/gravel road until you reach N Lake Rd."
