Best Tent Camping near Lyon Mountain, NY

Tent campsites in the Adirondack region surrounding Lyon Mountain, New York range from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers five primitive tent sites along the northeastern shore of the pond, accessible by a rough dirt service road. Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground provides secluded island tent camping accessible only by boat, with sites scattered around the shoreline of Lake Colden.

Most primitive tent areas require campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Jones Pond sites are free to use with a maximum three-night stay without a permit. Sites typically include basic fire rings, though some areas in the High Peaks Wilderness prohibit fires entirely. Bear-resistant food containers are required at many backcountry locations, as black bear activity is common throughout the region. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Jones Pond, though many lack doors or toilet paper. Water must be filtered from nearby lakes or streams, as potable water is rarely provided at primitive sites.

The tent camping experience varies significantly by location and season. Sites at Jones Pond offer direct water access, with one reviewer noting that "Site #5 was absolutely beautiful and right on the water." Walk-in tent sites at Lake Colden provide more seclusion but require substantial hiking effort, with trails described as "VERY rocky, so not necessarily easy hikes." Many backcountry tent areas fill quickly during summer weekends, particularly those near popular hiking trails. Winter camping is possible at some locations, though snowpack remains on many trails until late May, and early-season campers should be prepared for cold temperatures and changing weather conditions.

Best Tent Sites Near Lyon Mountain, New York (27)

    1. Someday Happens River Retreat

    1 Review
    Mooers Forks, NY
    15 miles
    +1 (518) 593-8184

    $45 / night

    2. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites

    3 Reviews
    Rainbow Lake, NY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 897-1200

    "It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite. Which of course would make our dogs bark at them."

    "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."

    3. Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground

    15 Reviews
    Saranac Lake, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-2841

    $22 - $40 / night

    "You'll need a boat or canoe (rentals available in Saranac Lake). Sites have tables, fire rings, and outhouses. You'll need a tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc."

    "All campsites have picnic tables, firepits/grills, and privies. Saranac Lake Marina has great rental boats. I even think the dogs look forward to these camping trips."

    4. Valcour Island

    3 Reviews
    Plattsburgh, NY
    24 miles

    "Just a truly beautiful place ♡ One of Lake Champlains BEST hidden gems!"

    5. Ponderosa Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Owls Head, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 497-6430

    6. Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps

    1 Review
    Keeseville, NY
    24 miles

    "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. "

    7. Burton Island State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Hero, VT
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 524-6353

    "Spacious sites with fire rings. Shade is limited at certain times of the day. Nice hiking trails nearbye."

    "When we booked our Labor Day weekend tent site back in March, there were only 2 leantos (out of 26) left and a handful of tent sites (out of 14)."

    8. Poke-O-Moonshine

    2 Reviews
    Willsboro, NY
    29 miles
    +1 (518) 834-9045

    "Easy distance to Poko-moonshine mountain and several smaller mountains.Beautiful location. Removed from trafficked roads, very quiet. Can be busy in summer. Waterfront access to Long Pond."

    9. Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake

    9 Reviews
    Lake Placid, NY
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 523-3441

    $25 - $55 / night

    "There’s no explaining the views around here. The mountains are beautiful, Lake Placid is beautiful, and this campsite is amazing."

    "Rode in on a motorcycle late at night expecting to not be able to get in, but you can take a parking pass and drop an envelope with your fee at the entrance booth. $15 for a full day $8 after 1PM."

    10. Knight Island State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    North Hero, VT
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 524-6353

    "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing. Deer, .turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island"

    "It doesn't host a ton of amenities other than outdoor toilets, but it doesn't need to because every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic"

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Tent Camping Reviews near Lyon Mountain, NY

437 Reviews of 27 Lyon Mountain Campgrounds



Guide to Lyon Mountain

Tent camping near Lyon Mountain, New York, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed spots nearby, campers can find the perfect setting for their next adventure.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tent campers should check out local fishing spots

Tent camping features that enhance your stay

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lyon Mountain, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lyon Mountain, NY is Someday Happens River Retreat with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Lyon Mountain, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Lyon Mountain, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.