The Adirondack Park surrounds Keene Valley with over 6 million acres of protected wilderness, making it the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. Situated along Route 73 in the High Peaks region, campsites in this area typically sit at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating cool evening temperatures even during summer months. Weather patterns can change rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Hiking direct from camp: At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, campers can access multiple trailheads without driving. According to Alex & Lauren K., "We had a very pleasant stay here and personally found the weekdays to be best for 'camp days' given there were few people—weekends are PACKED." Their central location provides direct trail access to Mount Marcy and surrounding peaks.
Mountain biking network: AuSable Chasm Campground offers extensive biking options on their property. One reviewer notes, "I wish I had my bike!!! I didn't know that this was a biking campground and there were SO MANY trails." The campground maintains cross-country ski trails that convert to mountain biking paths during warmer months.
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for kayaking and swimming. At Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground, guests can "spend hours floating down the river" according to johanne Y., who adds that the campground is "peaceful and relaxing" with easy access to both Lake Placid and Burlington day trips.
What campers like
Secluded forest sites: Draper's Acres offers tent camping areas separated from RV sections. Eric M. explains, "This site has good tent sites that are separate from RV area and rental cabins. Very reasonable rates and friendly staff, also showers on site tho they're a bit rustic." He recommends grabbing "a spot on the outer ring for a quieter time, larger space and better views."
Year-round accommodations: While many Adirondack campgrounds close during winter, some remain open for cold-weather camping. Kevin L. stayed at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake for "one night just so I could hike Mount Marcy in the morning! It was 40 dollars a night and it has a great hot shower and flush toilet."
Lakefront opportunities: Rollins Pond Campground features numerous waterfront sites. One camper shares, "Almost all the sites are lakefront. Great kayak and canoe access to a whole network of lakes in the St. Regis/Saranac area." Another camper adds, "We had a waterfront site and we're absolutely delighted to be able to sit on the beach and watch the sunset, kayak at our leisure, and swim."
What you should know
Proximity to High Peaks trailheads: When seeking glamping near Keene Valley, New York, location relative to hiking destinations matters. Sierra K. notes that Draper's Acres offers "perfect location to the high peaks" though sites "are a little bit difficult to navigate and find, especially when arriving at dusk."
Road conditions: Some access roads to campgrounds require slow driving. One camper cautions about Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake: "beware of the roads coming in. 40MPH is too fast for these torn up roads."
Seasonal timing: For optimal experience with Adirondack glamping options, timing matters. Kayla M. visited Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake "in late March when there was still a decent amount of snow on the site. Despite the lake being frozen over, the views just steps away from our lean to were gorgeous."
Tips for camping with families
Midweek visits: For family glamping near Keene Valley, consider non-weekend dates. Alex & Lauren K. noted at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, "personally found the weekdays to be best for 'camp days' given there were few people—weekends are PACKED and there were more than a couple of party sites."
Pool access: Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday offers swimming options beyond natural water bodies. One reviewer shares, "The campground has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games. They have cabins, tent site areas, and huge wooded camper sites."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programming for children. At Medcalf Acres, Jason R. explains there is "always something for the kids to do and the staff makes it fun for the kids. They have a heated swimming pool or you can float/swim in schroon river."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Nancy W. recommends checking which section you're booking at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday: "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."
Water and electric hookups: Brett N. appreciated the practicality at Draper's Acres: "Our site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The office sells firewood. Both bath houses were adequate, even containing shampoo and body wash."
