Adirondack camping near Lake Pleasant offers a distinctive blend of wilderness and accessibility at 1,791 feet elevation. The region sits at the southern edge of the Adirondack Park where the foothills transition into deeper mountain terrain, creating a moderate climate with typical summer temperatures between 70-85°F. Most campsites in the area open from May through early October, with several staying open through Columbus Day for fall foliage viewing.
What to do
Hiking to Echo Cliffs: Access this scenic trail directly from Little Sandpoint Campground for panoramic lake views. "Quiet small campground with a lot of waterfront sites. Hike to Echo Cliffs right from the campground," shares Kyle M., highlighting the convenience of on-site trail access.
Tubing on West Canada Creek: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA offers a relaxing water experience with minimal effort. "Tubing was the big hit with the kids. Such an amazing campground! Nice hike straight from the campground," notes Ekaterina P. The campground provides easy entry and exit points along the river.
Gemstone hunting: The Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA combines outdoor recreation with mineral exploration. "We spent three nights here. The staff is fabulous. The mines are so much fun," says Kelly F. Visitors can search for double-terminated quartz crystals and keep what they find, with admission fees starting at $15 for adults.
Swimming at Nine Corners Lake: Located 15 minutes from multiple campsites, this natural swimming area features clear water and forest surroundings. "Nine Corners Lake is a must! It has beautiful clear water and we spent two entire days hanging out there," reports a visitor from the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resorts stands out for its spacious layout. "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors," explains Nancy W.
Clean individual bathrooms: Lake George Riverview Campground offers a rare camping luxury. "The private bathrooms were an unexpected surprise. Each bathroom was large with toilet, sink and shower! With many campers in RVs the bathrooms were never busy," notes Jim B., appreciating this uncommon amenity.
Pond-side camping: DevilDoc Campsites offers a secluded water setting. "We had the entire campground and the small Artesian fed pond to ourselves," Jeff W. explains. "Primitive dispersed camping is what you get, and EXACTLY what we wanted. Picnic table and fire pits are at all the sites."
Yurt camping options: Lake Pleasant area accommodates alternative lodging preferences. "The tent we stayed in was gorgeous! We fit 5 of us comfortably. Linens, blankets and pillows were provided. There was a fire pit, BBQ, picnic table with umbrella, covered platform, and a partition between campsites," reports Christina M. about the glamping experience.
What you should know
Bear regulations vary by campground: Some locations have strict food storage rules. "No bear proof lockers to help out like federal campgrounds. Odd bear rules that basically make you pack up your site when not in use, unless you have a trailer or RV," warns Lawrence L. about Brown Tract Pond Campground.
Shower availability is inconsistent: Not all campgrounds provide full facilities. "There are no sites with electric. There is a store just outside the entrance that sells ice, wood, groceries," explains Danielle S. about Caroga Lake Campground. "Clean bathrooms and showers, boat rental, but no pets allowed in the beach area."
Firewood collection policies differ: Some sites permit gathering wood while others require purchase. "Property has an abundance of free firewood you can collect," notes a camper about DevilDoc Campsites, while other locations charge $9 or more per bundle.
Weekend noise levels fluctuate: Expect varying experiences based on timing. "This campground was incredibly noisy. A number of the sites had been closed for the camping season. The beach area offered a great view, but again, so noisy," warns Jessica W.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Lake George RV Park offers exceptional water features. "Great for families. There is a trolley to get around the camp ground as well as to the local outlets. Fun family activities and quite a few pools to relax in," shares Michelle D., noting the various recreation options available.
Entertainment schedules: Many campgrounds program activities throughout the week. "Super relaxing and the creek is AMAZING. Both kid and adult friendly and it's free, just bring a tube or purchase for cheap at the camp store," explains Julia P. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA's river tubing.
Nature immersion opportunities: Some sites offer direct wildlife viewing. "As I sat having my coffee, watching steam rise from the pond, I listened to the distant calls of Loons," says John E. about Brown Tract Pond Campground, where motorized boats are prohibited to maintain the peaceful setting.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on amenities needed. "Nice stopover or basecamp for this area. Very wooded. Hiking trails become nice XC skiing trails. Nice sandy beach with lifeguard hours," reports Amber A. about Moreau Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and access: Little Sandpoint Campground offers waterfront options but requires assessment. "Loved being right on the water and having access to trails from the camping area. Spots were large and wooded. Was very quiet and enjoyable!!" shares Kristine G. RVers should note some sites may be uneven.
Electrical considerations: Voltage options vary between campgrounds. "We used his power source so we were near his home and site was level for the travel trailer. Slept great each night!!" reports a camper at DevilDoc Campsites, noting that water limitations might affect tank dumping.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads may not be paved to all campgrounds. "Easiest access is from Raquette Lake. From the west you will drive over 5 miles on a dirt road (slow going if towing)," warns Monica F. about getting to certain campgrounds during shoulder seasons.
Hookup availability: Research utilities before booking. "The angled sites and wide roads make backing in very easy," notes Nancy W. about Moose Hillock, where cable hookups come standard but internet access is limited.
