Dispersed camping sites near New Russia, New York range from remote forested locations to maintained campgrounds with waterfront access. The area sits within the central Adirondack region at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating temperature variations that can drop 15-20 degrees at night even in summer months. Camping options typically receive moderate rainfall throughout the camping season, with August averaging 4.3 inches of precipitation.
What to do
Hike Giant Mountain: Sharp Bridge Campground provides easy access to this challenging trail. "I highly recommend this hike! Beautiful views and Trail was well marked. It's on more of the challenging side so bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your fueled," notes Christina M. from Sharp Bridge Campground.
Explore waterways: Button Bay State Park offers lake activities with equipment rentals. "There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities, lake for swimming & fishing and hiking trails," explains Lacy C., highlighting multiple recreation options.
Visit historic sites: Crown Point Campground provides access to colonial fortifications. "The fort and its museum are the main attractions but there's a lot more to do nearby as well," explains Justin S. about the Crown Point Campground, adding that while "not ADK wilderness" it offers strong historical interest.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Lincoln Pond Campground offers secluded lakeside spots accessible by boat. "This state campground offers a variety of wooded sites, some drive in and others remote boat-in (29R-31R)," explains Jean C. from Lincoln Pond Campground, adding "if you want a little more solitude, check out the remote sites."
Mountain access: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake serves as a gateway to multiple peaks. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," reports Hannah O., emphasizing the Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake's direct trail access.
Natural swimming holes: Sites near Lake Placid offer hidden water features. "Walk to the back of the campground to the Ausable river, go down the path about 500 ft. there is an awesome swimming hole," reveals Laura T., sharing a local secret at the Whiteface Mountain KOA.
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Wilmington Notch Campground has limited separation between campsites. "Sites are spaced out, but little privacy. Luckily I had a water bandit, as the water spigot does not have threads for a hose," notes Nathan S. from Wilmington Notch Campground, mentioning both spacing and water connection issues.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "The campground does get 1 bar," reports Dina S. about Lincoln Pond, adding that hikers should "be sure to have a personal beacon since your cell phone won't work on the hikes."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were always clean and shower areas had great water pressure," reports Nicole S. about Lake Placid KOA, while others note older facilities at some state parks requiring updates.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Button Bay offers structured activities for children. "This is a good campground for families that are not too rowdy. There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities," suggests Lacy C. about Button Bay State Park Campground.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Lake Placid area camping requires layered clothing. "We braved the 12° nights and pitched a tent," shares Laura Nicole A., indicating extreme temperature drops can occur even during camping season.
Consider midweek visits: Weekdays offer quieter experiences and better site availability. "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," advises Alex & Lauren K. about Heart Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Draper's Acres offers varied RV accommodations. "The RV and tent camping is well separated and there are different kinds of RV space available as well," explains Natalie N. from Draper's Acres, adding "we had water/electric for a trailer at $35 a night in perfect location between Keene Valley and Lake Placid."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may challenge larger rigs. "The roads are really tight for big rigs. Between the trees, rocks, and low hanging branches, you have to take it really slow," cautions Nancy W., recommending unhooking tow vehicles at check-in.
Hookup availability: Crown Point offers various utility connections. "The site was gorgeous and the campground clean. We stayed here one night in our RV with no hookups," reports Rae M., while others note some sites provide water, electric and sewer connections.
