Dispersed camping at Sunday Lake provides primitive outdoor experiences 0.3 miles from McCarty Road near Martinsburg, New York. The Tug Hill region sits at elevations between 1,200 and 2,000 feet, creating distinct weather patterns with significantly higher snowfall than surrounding areas. Winter temperatures typically range from 5-25°F, while summer brings mild 70-85°F days ideal for tent camping.
What to do
Swimming in clean waters: Soft Maple Campground offers a pristine swimming beach for cooling off during summer months. "The beach is lovely and clean," reports Elizabeth B., who adds that the lake connects to a river system providing additional recreation opportunities.
Gorge hiking: Explore dramatic landscapes along the gorge trail at Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground. "We also hike the gorge hiking trail. What a wonderful hike. Mid level rigor but the view of the gorge from the top are truly breath taking," shares Matt N. The trail forms a 3-mile loop with moderate difficulty rating.
Paddling and fishing: The waterways near Martinsburg support multiple paddling routes. "Francis Lake is totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet... Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water," notes Elizabeth B. about Francis Lake. Most lakes in the region require no permits for fishing, but anglers should follow state regulations.
What campers like
Large, private campsites: Nicks Lake Campground receives praise for spacious sites separated by forest. "A calm and peaceful campground with multiple driving loops separated by a generous amount of forest," according to Bryon P. Another camper notes "sites: wooded. good privacy. some sites on water. some sites not very flat."
Quality facilities: Despite their rustic setting, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "We visited on a weekend in August and I can't say enough how clean the facilities were. My kids took their shoes off on Friday and did not put them back on until Sunday," reports a visitor to Whetstone Gulf.
Pet-friendly policies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Martinsburg typically welcome pets with reasonable restrictions. At Delta Lake State Park Campground, sites accommodate pets throughout the grounds. "Spacious, mostly flat sides. Complete shade and a lot of sites right on the water," mentions Marlene H., making it suitable for camping with animals.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Tug Hill area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. "We had to contend with a day and a half of rain out of 3 days," notes one camper at Whetstone Gulf. Prepare with appropriate gear regardless of forecast.
Wildlife encounters: Bears occasionally visit campgrounds in the region. At Nicks Lake Campground, "There were some pesky bears wandering at night looking for an easy meal. Although if you are careful about your food items they will not even stop at your site," advises Jeremy H.
Electrical limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted power capacity. At HTR Adirondacks (formerly Singing Waters), campers note power issues: "30amp only but not truly providing that. We kept blowing the breaker and noted our lights flickering."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We typically book 1 year prior for the cottages," advises a visitor regarding Old Forge Camping Resort. Most state parks accept reservations 9 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Delta Lake State Park provides excellent swimming options for children. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," notes Brian O., adding that the "grounds did offer a nice playground for children."
Recreational programming: Family-oriented campgrounds often schedule activities. At Nicks Lake, the setting "provides a nice balance between the hustle and bustle of Main Street and the tranquility of the Adirondacks." A visitor explains: "The grounds are a wonderful option for families, not only hosting a number of amenities (i.e. campers beach, hiking trails), but providing opportunities to observe the local wildlife."
Playground options: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. At Whitaker Falls Park, families enjoy "Wide open flat fields for kickball or baseball and a view of the Adirondack foothills, spread out a blanket and read, play on the jungle gym or cook a great lunch on the grills at the pavilion."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site accommodations. At Whetstone Gulf, "not all sites have the same electric, there 2- 50 amp, some 30 amps and some 15 Amp," advises Carl G. This information helps prevent power issues upon arrival.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns," warns an RVer about HTR Adirondacks. Sites better accommodate "travel trailers and 5th wheels but not a large class a."
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't guaranteed at all sites. At Kayuta Lake, "Not all sites have full hookups, some are just power, some are only grey water, and some are full," explains Michael O., recommending checking specific site details before booking.
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