Lake Clear sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in the northwestern Adirondacks, surrounded by mixed hardwood and conifer forests. Temperatures in this region fluctuate dramatically, with summer nighttime lows sometimes dropping into the 40s even after 80-degree days. Most campsites in the area offer tent platforms or well-drained soil due to the region's tendency for sudden rain showers.
What to do
Hiking Scarface Mountain: Access the trailhead directly from Meadowbrook Campground, which sits between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. "There's a trail to Scarface that leaves from the campground. Like many of the towns in the area, Saranac has a hiking challenge. Complete 6 hikes in the area and earn a patch; Scarface is one of the 6," notes Jean C.
Paddling connected waterways: Explore the extensive lake network from Rollins Pond Campground. "Great kayak and canoe access to a whole network of lakes in the St. Regis/Saranac area," explains Jeffrey B. Paddlers can explore for days through the interconnected ponds without covering the same water twice.
Winter Olympic sites: Visit the Olympic venues in Lake Placid, just 15-20 minutes from many area campgrounds. "Winter Olympic museum" is listed as a nearby attraction by Amanda K., who stayed at Rollins Pond. The Olympic facilities are open year-round for tours, and some offer activities like bobsled rides in summer.
What campers like
Private island camping: Saranac Lake Islands offers a unique experience for those willing to boat to their site. "There's something novelty about getting in a boat and paddling to your island for the week! We went off season so camping was free!" shares Molly G. These sites require transportation planning but reward with unmatched privacy.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including waterfowl, small mammals, and occasionally larger species. "WE love staying at Rollins Pond in a tent! Our family always meet friendly people and falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane," reports Kristina L.
Morning coffee vendors: Some larger campgrounds feature unique amenities like mobile vendors. "There was a coffee vendor that came through in the morning, which was kind of fun," notes Emma B. about her stay at Fish Creek Pond Campground, while Brian O. mentions "Vendors of Wood, Ice Cream, Pansteries/baked goods, bait, and others come through the camp area once a day."
What you should know
Dramatic temperature swings: Prepare for significant daily temperature variations. "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours," advises Jerry M. about Saranac Lake Islands camping. This is particularly important for shoulder season camping when overnight temperatures can dip near freezing.
Campground amenities vary widely: Facilities range from primitive to modern across the region. "The bathrooms were actually one of the nicest I've seen in a DEC campsite; it looked like it had recently been rebuilt," reports Sam L. about Meadowbrook Campground, while other campgrounds might offer only pit toilets or no facilities at all.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving. Visitors to Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake caution: "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires," warns Max, who visited for hiking. Many forest roads have potholes, washboarding, or loose gravel.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Many sites offer level terrain and internal roads perfect for children learning to bike. "It was a little crowded but surprisingly quiet for the number of people. Lots of kids biking and a nice trail behind the sites to walk or run," reports Emma B. about Fish Creek Pond Campground.
Free primitive options: Budget-conscious families can utilize free camping areas. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers no-cost options. "Jones Pond has five primitive campsites along its northeastern shore accessible by a two track service road. The sites are on a first come basis and are free to use. You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit," explains Dylan J.
Swimming access: Many campgrounds provide safe water access for children. "It's perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water. The bottom is sandy with some rocks, good to have water shoes but not essential," notes Oleńka S. about Fish Creek Pond, adding that "the water is super shallow all along the shoreline."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Large rigs require careful planning at many Adirondack campgrounds. "The roads are really tight for big rigs. 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," advises Nancy W. about Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
Hookup availability: Most state campgrounds lack full hookups. "There are no hookups, electric or water. There is wood for sale when the office is open, a dump station and it has showers," clarifies Garrett D. regarding Meadowbrook Campground. Plan accordingly with filled water tanks and charged batteries.
Size restrictions: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "We have a rather large rig (36 ft fifth wheel plus the truck) & while fish creek is notoriously a tent only/small rig campground we fit perfectly," reports Bella S., but cautions this applies to specific sites.
Guide
