Tent camping near Malone, New York offers access to over 2,300 square miles of Adirondack wilderness with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F days and 50-60°F nights. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500-1,500 feet, creating diverse microclimates across camping areas. Most primitive campsites in the region remain open from mid-May through mid-October, though accessibility depends on spring melt conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Middle Pond Campsite provides excellent bass fishing access with shoreline casting spots. "Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months. Off season is generally when you will find this campsite available," notes camper Kurt V.
Hiking from camp: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake serves as an ideal basecamp for High Peaks exploration. A visitor shared, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground. There are only 32 sites so it never felt too crowded."
Swimming access: Many campsites offer direct water access for cooling off. At Valcour Island, one camper noted, "Beautiful Boat access only camping. Pick anchorage or sites early, its always busy on weekends and first come first served (no reservations). Excellent bass fishing and miles of hiking."
What campers like
Island solitude: Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground offers truly isolated camping. As one visitor explains, "Huge sites, a lot of privacy (nearest campsite in most cases is not even visible). We kayaked before, and found the biggest drawback was impossible to bring a lot of food and a cooler."
Primitive amenities: Basic facilities satisfy most campers seeking authentic experiences. A guest at Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites described, "I came from the Albany area. It took me about two hours 45 minutes and well worth the drive... I definitely love this place. This is my first campsite that I found using the app highly recommend."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Canoed into our campsite, #15. It took 3 trips to bring in all our gear. Beautiful site. Quite a climb up to the actual site. Great swimming from site... Lots of loons, toads and fish," reported a Saranac Lake Islands camper.
What you should know
Site selection timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially island sites. "We rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula (not one of the very sought after islands but just as neat) on the middle saranac. one of the coolest experiences I've ever had in my life," shared a visitor.
Access challenges: Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps requires appropriate vehicles for river access. "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. If you have a good 4x4 and some driving skills, you can reach the river with your car."
Temperature fluctuations: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at Wilderness Campground noted, "My boyfriend and I visited in late March when there was still a decent amount of snow on the site. Despite the lake being frozen over, the views just steps away from our lean to were gorgeous."
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options: Lean-tos provide shelter security for families in variable weather. "Lean to camping at its best! The lean to I had was right on the lake and on the edge of the campground. It's a bit of a trek to a bathroom but well worth it," reported a visitor to Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake.
Waterfront safety: Choose sites with gradual water entry for younger children. At Jones Pond, a camper explained, "Site #4 is very large and could be occupied by a large group and multiple vehicles. It is accessible by car/suv/truck. Site #4 is near the water and has a fire ring and access to the water."
Campsite privacy: For families needing space, certain Malone tent camping areas offer enhanced isolation. "The campsites are perfect for a short stay with a tent or suv camper. The two track access road is rough and all dirt. There are two pit toilets, both primitive, one of which did not have a door when we visited."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds require cautious driving. At Wilderness Campground, a motorcyclist advised, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."
Limited RV accessibility: Most primitive camping near Malone accommodates small rigs only. At Jones Pond, a reviewer noted, "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."
Seasonal considerations: RV camping generally limited to May-October window with specific restrictions. One visitor at Poke-O-Moonshine shared, "Easy distance to Poko-moonshine mountain and several smaller mountains. Beautiful location. Removed from trafficked roads, very quiet."
