Best Tent Camping near Inlet, NY
The Adirondack region surrounding Inlet, New York offers diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote primitive sites. Seventh Lake Primitive Camping provides tent-only sites accessible by drive-in, hike-in, or walk-in routes, while Cedar River Entrance Camping features tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings near water access points. North Lake Reservoir Campground offers dispersed tent camping with some walk-in sites positioned directly on the lakeshore.
Most primitive tent sites in the area require campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Toilet facilities vary significantly—Cedar River has several outhouses near its tent sites, while Seventh Lake Primitive Camping lacks toilets entirely. Fire regulations apply throughout the region, with most tent campgrounds permitting fires in established rings only. Bear-proof food storage is essential at all locations, with some areas specifically requiring bear canisters. A camper noted that "bear canisters are required when camping in this area and you can find some for rent on your drive in."
Tent campers at Saranac Lake Islands experience exceptional privacy, with sites spaced far enough apart that neighboring campers are often not visible. The boat-in requirement for these tent sites creates a uniquely secluded experience compared to drive-in campgrounds. Water access is a significant feature at many tent-only sites, with locations like Seventh Lake offering proximity to swimming areas. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "there is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out." Primitive tent camping areas typically see less traffic than developed campgrounds, though seasonal variations affect crowd levels. During peak summer months (June-September), arriving early is recommended for first-come, first-served tent sites, particularly at popular locations like Lake Colden.
