Tent camping near Lyon Mountain, New York offers experiences ranging from water-accessible sites to remote backcountry camping in the northern Adirondacks. Located in Clinton County at an elevation of 3,830 feet, Lyon Mountain's surrounding area features a mix of dense forest, glacial lakes, and protected wilderness. Winter conditions often extend into May, with summer temperatures averaging 65-80°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Someday Happens River Retreat, campers can fish directly from their sites with two tent locations providing river access for anglers seeking privacy and direct water entry.
Island exploration: Burton Island State Park Campground offers a boat-in camping experience with trails throughout the 2.5-mile long island. "We watched a sunset on the South tip, caught frogs at our shoreline, rented a paddleboard, played in the waves, and enjoyed the icecream sandwiches from the camp store," notes one camper.
High peaks hiking: Multiple trail systems connect to campgrounds in the region, with varying difficulty levels. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," explains a visitor to Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, which serves as a basecamp for accessing High Peaks trails.
What campers like
Boat-in seclusion: Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground provides unique water-based camping experiences. "I camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row. The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place! The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated," reports one reviewer.
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate direct lake access. At Valcour Island, the boat-only access limits crowds and provides excellent fishing opportunities. One long-time visitor noted, "I have been camping on this island for just over 30 years, and my father camped there for another 30 prior to that. It is one of my favorite places in the whole world."
Off-grid experience: Limited cell service and distance from towns creates a true wilderness feel. "I was absolutely impressed with the restrooms, dishwashing station, and beach area... Perfect distance from Lake Placid proper for an enforced retreat with the option to reconnect," writes a visitor about Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many backcountry sites have minimal amenities. At Poke-O-Moonshine, campers should prepare for self-sufficient camping with limited facilities. The area is "removed from trafficked roads, very quiet. Can be busy in summer. Waterfront access to Long Pond," according to one reviewer.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly, particularly in shoulder seasons. "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours," advises a camper at Saranac Lake Islands.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book up quickly, especially for summer weekends. For Burton Island State Park, "waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance), but if you don't mind being farther from the main campground and running water, you can almost always rent one of the four primitive sites."
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities: Many sites provide direct water access for swimming and boating. At Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps, "this prime location is very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river," making it ideal for families seeking space and water play opportunities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts diverse wildlife including loons, frogs, and fish. At Saranac Lake Islands, one visitor reported, "lots of loons, toads and fish" at their campsite.
Avoid busy weekends: For quieter family camping, consider midweek trips. A camper at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake observed, "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 and there were more than a couple of party sites."
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Most primitive sites cannot accommodate large RVs. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites has "five primitive campsites along its northeastern shore accessible by a two track service road. Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV."
Four-wheel drive recommended: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "If you have a good 4x4 and some driving skills, you can reach the river with your car. You will drive in what looks like an enchanted forest," notes a visitor to Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps.
Road conditions: Approach roads to camping areas often have rough surfaces. A camper at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake warns, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."
