The Jay area offers a gateway to Adirondack wilderness experiences at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,400 feet across the surrounding mountains. Camping options near Jay primarily operate from May through mid-October, with fall temperatures often dropping below 40°F at night even when daytime temperatures remain warm. Campsites in this region typically feature varying degrees of tree cover which influences both privacy and temperature management.
What to do
Waterfall access trails: Campers at Wilmington Notch Campground can directly access the West Branch of the Ausable River and its waterfalls. "There is an accessible trail from the back of the campground to an amazing waterfall on the west branch of the Ausable River and plenty of spots to trout fish/swim," notes Zachary M.
Whiteface Mountain day trips: For hikers seeking elevation, the area provides numerous options starting directly from campsites. "Behind the 100-Acre section are trails that lead to Whiteface Mountain so you don't have to get in the car to start a hike," explains Nancy W., highlighting the convenience for those staying at area campgrounds.
Winter recreation: Unlike many Adirondack camping options, Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake operates throughout the winter months. "My boyfriend and I braved the 12° nights and pitched a tent. There were a lot of campers, but the sites are spaced out and people were very respectful of noise/lights/other campers," writes Laura Nicole A.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds near Jay. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, "The bathrooms are really nice and warm, especially during the cold off season," according to Kayla M., who visited during March when many facilities in the region remain closed.
Lake recreation: While not all campgrounds offer water access, those that do provide additional recreational opportunities. "The welcome center and store are so cute, sites are well maintained amid everyone is super friendly. There is a secret we discovered the last day. Walk to the back of the campground to the Ausable river, go down the path about 500 ft. There is an awesome swimming hole," reports Laura T. about her experience at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
Site privacy differences: Campgrounds in the region vary significantly in how sites are arranged. "The sites are pretty small and close together but overall the campground is excellent. The camp host is spectacular and it is extremely well maintained for a primitive area," explains Steph about Taylor Pond, offering insight into the trade-offs between amenities and site spacing.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds feature challenging access roads that require preparation. "The road into the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," notes Lee D. about AuSable Chasm Campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak season, securing a campsite without advance booking becomes increasingly difficult. "Definitely make reservations in advance during the summer!" advises Maggie F. about camping at Wilmington Notch.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems at many campgrounds are seasonal and may have unconventional connections. "Luckily I had a water bandit, as the water spigot does not have threads for a hose," shares Nathan S. about his experience at Wilmington Notch Campground, pointing out the need for specialized equipment at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation variety: Families benefit from campgrounds offering multiple activity options. "Multiple different types of sites to accommodate all forms of camping. Family-friendly," notes Stefan S. about Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
Check playground locations: Not all area campgrounds offer playgrounds, and those that do place them in various locations. "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games," writes Nicole S.
Consider spacing between sites: For families seeking more privacy, outer campsite loops often provide better separation. "The sites in the two loops closest to Rte 86 (#1-13, 27-34, and 51-62) were much closer together, and some didn't have trees between sites. Even at our more 'isolated' site, we could still see our neighbors," observes Sam L. about Meadowbrook Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should inquire about site grading before arrival. "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles," reports Brian P., suggesting the need to research specific sites at AuSable Chasm Campground.
Section selection matters: Campgrounds with multiple sections often have significant differences between areas. "There are two distinct sections of this campground– the 'Resort' section and the '100-Acre Woods' section. We stayed in site #73 of the 100-Acre section and would highly recommend staying in this area as opposed to the other. This section has tall shad trees and much more space between sites than the resort area," advises Nancy W.
Tree clearance for large rigs: Low-hanging branches can create hazards for taller RVs. "Between the trees, rocks, and low hanging branches, you have to take it really slow. I recommend unhooking your tow car at check-in so you are free to back up," warns Nancy W. about navigating certain campgrounds.
