Glamping in the Adirondack region near Malone, New York offers elevated camping experiences within a mountainous landscape at elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet. Most glamping sites in this area operate from May through October with temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to 80°F during summer days. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, limiting off-season glamping options except for heated accommodations.
What to do
Lake activities at Meacham Lake: The campground divides into two distinct areas with different experiences. According to Colin J., "It's split into 2 sides. The west side is way cooler, less bugs and more views. The east side is RV/camper heaven." West side campsites offer platform tent sites directly on the water.
Water recreation at Buck Pond Campground: This location provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking with rentals available on-site. Nancy P. notes it's a "Very peaceful place to go canoeing." The campground includes a beach area for swimming during summer months.
Hiking near Draper's Acres: Located centrally in the Adirondack High Peaks region, this campground provides access to numerous trailheads. Karolina mentions, "Good location for major trailheads and near by lake placid keene. Tent sites are not very big. Although we comfortably fit with one vehicle."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Rollins Pond offers lakeside camping with significant privacy. Amie C. describes, "We had a waterfront site and we're absolutely delighted to be able to sit on the beach and watch the sunset, kayak at our leisure, and swim. Water spigots in very close proximity and all bathrooms clean and accessible."
Natural swimming areas: Many glamping locations feature swimming opportunities directly from campsites. At Meacham Lake Campground, Michael G. appreciated that "If you do score a lakeside site, your views will be spectacular!" The campground offers swimming areas with tent platforms to keep gear dry.
Family-friendly amenities: Several glamping sites include additional entertainment options beyond natural features. At Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, Nicole S. reports, "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, huge store, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping accommodations close during winter months. Buck Pond operates from "May 19 to September 4" while Meacham Lake has a slightly extended season from "May 19 to October 9," requiring advance planning during peak periods.
Site selection matters: At Riverside Campground, Steven F. noted, "Some of the nicest people we have met yet. Helpful and accommodating. Lots of improvements over the last year they said, and it is really nice and clean! New bathrooms and laundry center."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Meacham Lake, Debbie T. warns, "There is no cell or internet there," making it important to download maps and information before arrival if staying at remote glamping sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer beaches suitable for children. At Cumberland Bay State Park Campground, Sheri C. shared, "This is a great place for the family. The playground is great. New bath house. Some sites with electric. Even with a windy, cold, rainy day it is still beautiful."
Kid-friendly activities: Choose glamping sites with recreational options for children. According to larry at AuSable Chasm Campground, the site features a "pool was clean, play ground kids loved it. And facilities were clean, with hot showers." Many sites offer organized activities during summer weekends.
Ice cream options: Several campgrounds feature ice cream availability, a popular option with children. Trina W. from Buck Pond Campground mentioned, "There was an ice cream place not far away, with a long line, and it was the best ice cream we had all summer!"
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Many glamping locations offer partial or full hook-ups for RVs. At AuSable Chasm Campground, YM C. reported, "Good sized site with electric and water. Shady but also had sun to dry our shoes from the raft tour."
Road conditions: Access roads to glamping sites vary in quality. Brett N. at Draper's Acres noted, "My site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and if needed, two cars. The nearby bathroom and shower we're basic, but certainly adequate."
Shower facilities: While glamping often includes enhanced amenities, bathroom and shower quality differs between sites. At Rollins Pond Campground, Amie C. appreciated "Free HOT showers, and all of the neighbors are so quiet it was like being alone when sitting by the fire."
