Tent campsites near Lake Pleasant, New York sit at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,200 feet, contributing to the area's dramatic temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. The region receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions but also challenging camping situations during wet periods. Most primitive sites become inaccessible after October due to seasonal road closures and early snowfall.
What to do
Paddle isolated waterways: Seventh Lake offers multiple primitive sites accessible only by canoe or kayak. As one camper noted, "There are a few camping sites and one lean-to that I know of in this area... There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited."
Explore nearby trails: Murphy Lake Leanto provides access to several challenging wilderness paths. According to visitor Tony F., "The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls. The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest. Well marked with blue Trail Blazers, the trail snakes its way through the wilderness."
Wildlife observation: North Lake Reservoir sites offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from lakeside positions. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," reports camper J B.
What campers like
Privacy despite proximity: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides secluded camping just off main roads. One visitor explained, "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss... Felt private despite the road."
Water-based camping: Alger Island Adirondack Preserve requires boat transport for access, creating a unique island experience. "We kayaked all of our gear out to the island. It was a few days before 4th of July so it was a very busy time to be in 4th lake making the lake very choppy," shared Sarah B., adding that "I will absolutely stay at this park again, just for the beauty of the island."
Rustic amenities: Tioga Point Campground provides lean-to structures reducing tent needs. "You can only reach this campground by boat. The campground is very secluded and there are lean-to style campsites. You don't have to bring a tent unless you want to. This definitely saves some space in your boat," explains Carrie J.
What you should know
Hidden entrance challenges: Finding access points can be difficult. At Cod Pond, Taylor A. warns, "The directions in the app are accurate - but do keep in mind that the campsite is down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention. There is no service at all."
Terrain realities: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers beautiful but challenging terrain. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent," reports Ashlee C.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active throughout the region, particularly around Long Island Group — Lake George Islands. Ryan describes, "The raccoon situation...was bad. We were literally bombarded with a group of raccoons each night. It was bad. We had sites 3-7 and they were all the same."
Tips for camping with families
Boat access planning: When camping at boat-in only sites like Tioga Point, bring essential supplies in waterproof containers. Lee W. shares, "This campground is only accessible by boat. The campsites are private and you can enjoy the beach with crystal clear water. Fishing is great. My husband family has been going there since the 60s."
Vehicle considerations: Some sites require specialized vehicles. At Cod Pond, Taylor cautions, "This site is campsite 6 and very private. The site has its own private road. A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller suv."
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant temperature drops. "The site is mostly shaded—the sun shines through a bit but not much. There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night," notes Taylor about camping at Cod Pond.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Lake Pleasant restrict larger vehicles. Stony Creek Family Campground offers some facilities for smaller RVs while maintaining a tent-friendly atmosphere. Elizabeth P. reports, "It's a nice family ran campground. We love it here and plan to come back!"
Alternative options: Lake George Islands accommodate tent campers but aren't suitable for RVs. Anastasiia T. notes, "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip. Will come back!"
Surface challenges: Sites rarely offer level ground for larger vehicles. One camper at Cod Pond observed, "Ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc. You can hear cars from the site but the cars can't see you-loved this!"
