Best Campgrounds near Old Forge, NY

The Adirondack region surrounding Old Forge, New York features a diverse range of camping environments within the larger Adirondack Park. Established campgrounds like Nicks Lake Campground and Old Forge Camping Resort provide amenities such as showers, electric hookups, and boat launches, while more remote options like Moose River Plains offer primitive camping with fewer facilities. Many sites sit along lakes and ponds, creating opportunities for water-based recreation. The area includes both state-operated facilities with standardized amenities and privately managed resorts with additional services. Camping styles range from tent-only areas accessible by boat or foot to full-service RV sites with 50-amp electrical connections and sewer hookups.

Reservations are essential during the peak season from late May through early October, with most state campgrounds operating on a May to September schedule. As one camper noted, "We typically book 1 year prior for the cottages" at Old Forge Camping Resort. Weather conditions can vary dramatically, with visitors reporting "beautiful 80 degree summer days in May, and snowfall also in May." Cell service remains spotty throughout the region, with stronger signals in towns like Inlet and Old Forge proper. Many campgrounds feature wooded sites that provide natural privacy, though lakefront locations fill quickly. Access roads to more remote areas like North Lake Reservoir require slow driving on dirt and gravel surfaces, sometimes necessitating high-clearance vehicles.

Lakefront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region. Campers consistently mention the value of securing waterfront sites for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. According to one visitor at Nicks Lake, the campground "provides a nice balance between the hustle and bustle of Main Street and the tranquility of the Adirondacks." Wildlife sightings, including deer and occasionally bears, enhance the camping experience. Site sizes vary considerably across campgrounds, with some locations like Golden Beach featuring "massive sites" where "we typically travel in a group with 2 or 3 30' trailers, and often it seems like we could all fit on one site with plenty of room to spare." Fall brings spectacular foliage, with early color changes appearing by early September, though temperatures drop significantly, especially in the mornings.

Best Camping Sites Near Old Forge, New York (80)

    1. Nicks Lake Campground

    17 Reviews
    Thendara, NY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (315) 369-3314

    $22 / night

    "Great campground with nice sites and access to other areas in the ADK ... easy hikes up Bald Mountain or Rocky Point."

    "some sites not very flat. amenities: firewood regulations. lake. nature trail. swimming. some loops with no showers. canoe rental. other attractions: Old Forge. I would go back again."

    2. Old Forge Camping Resort

    18 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (315) 369-6011

    "My family and I have been visiting Old Forge Camping Resort for 20+ years."

    "We stayed at the Old Forge Camping resort during the Moosefest. The campground is close to a lot of paddling opportunities and even has a small lake in the campground."

    3. Limekiln Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Inlet, NY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 357-4401

    $20 / night

    "We loved our stay at Limekiln Lake! We had site 270, which was close enough to walk down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)"

    "a small water passage off the lake leads you to a beautiful queit kayak trip through lily pads ans if you follow it leads to a beaver dam. My son loved it."

    4. HTR Adirondacks

    7 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (315) 369-2700

    "Well maintained and has beach access to river."

    "The boys were never bored and loved walking around the camp site. We stayed for 2 nights .. if work would have allowed we would have stayed longer."

    5. Stillwater Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 785-2239

    "Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there"

    "It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite. The drive up campsite had an outhouse though so that was nice"

    6. Eighth Lake Campground

    9 Reviews
    Raquette Lake, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 354-4120

    $22 / night

    "The campground stretches between 2 lakes (Seventh and Eighth Lakes) and also has hiking trails with access to another lake (Bug Lake) and pond (Eagles Nest.)"

    "Large campground with access to 2 beautiful lakes"

    7. Moose River Plains

    9 Reviews
    Raquette Lake, NY
    15 miles
    Website

    "There’s a sign-in box at the entrance, for purposes of gauging usage and also for emergencies. 

    Each site is marked with a little yellow number placard."

    "Plenty of campsites available, ranging from exposed/near the road to secluded/tucked away. All seemed to include an outhouse."

    8. Alger Island Adirondack Preserve

    2 Reviews
    Eagle Bay, NY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 369-3224

    $18 - $40 / night

    "other attractions: hiking. theme park near (off island). I would go back again."

    "It was a few days before 4th of July so it was a very busy time to be in 4th lake making the lake very choppy. A lot of our stuff got wet due to big waves from boats crashing into our kayaks."

    9. Brown Tract Pond Campground

    7 Reviews
    Raquette Lake, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 354-4412

    $18 / night

    "Beautiful, peaceful large pond/small lake. Loons. Ducks and ducklings. Beaver. Canoes($20/day) and kayak rentals. Firewood for sale ($9?) or gather downed wood. Fishing."

    "There are no motorboats allowed on the lake, so the water is perfect for paddling. There is a small beach for if you don't get a waterfront campsite. They have canoes and kayaks for rent as well."

    10. Golden Beach Campground

    13 Reviews
    Raquette Lake, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 354-4230

    $20 / night

    "Tucked away in the foothills of the Adirondacks, its a very quick drive up from Syracuse, Utica or Rome areas. The sites are massive, seriously."

    "It’s the standard weird-ass New York thing where you have a site and you can park wherever the hell you want within it (so foreign to me), but you should spend some time with the map."

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Recent Reviews near Old Forge, NY

365 Reviews of 80 Old Forge Campgrounds



Guide to Old Forge

Camping near Old Forge, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities that attract nature lovers and families alike. With several campgrounds in the area, each has its unique charm and amenities.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campers enjoy the water access at places like Fish Creek Pond Campground. One reviewer said, "This is a gorgeous campground on the banks of Fish Creek Pond... perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water."
  • Fishing: If you’re into fishing, Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve is a great spot. A visitor noted, "Boat access only, primitive camping... I’ve been coming here every year for 15 years and look forward to the next trip."
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area, especially around Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve. One camper shared, "There is a wonderful swimming area and motorized boats are not allowed on Nicks Lake so it is very peaceful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Moffitt Beach Campground. A happy camper said, "We stayed on the south side of the lake, right on the water. We had breathtaking views."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Old Forge Camping Resort mentioned, "The bathrooms and grounds are well maintained and accessible from wherever you are in the park."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often highlight the welcoming vibe. One family shared, "This is one of the most family-friendly resorts... there is endless RV camping, tent camping, cabins, and cottages available."

What you should know:

  • Busy Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get crowded, especially during peak season. A visitor at Delta Lake State Park Campground noted, "This campground got a 3/5 mainly because quiet hours are not enforced."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Saranac Lake Islands has no drinking water or showers, which some campers found challenging.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Cranberry Lake - DEC mentioned, "There is a very nice hike to the top of Bear Mountain and a beautiful view of the lake."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, where one reviewer said, "There is plenty to do for camping families and couples that enjoy a peaceful evening."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A visitor at Moffitt Beach Campground said, "Best place to spend the end of summer. Facilities and park in excellent condition."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A camper at DevilDoc Campsites mentioned, "We had tons of privacy... lots of trails nearby for biking or hiking."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Old Forge Camping Resort noted, "The roads through the campground are very tight making backing into a spot very difficult."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: If you need power, check for campgrounds like Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA that offer electric hookups. One camper said, "Beautiful campground, well-maintained nice staff."
  • Plan for Water Access: Some campgrounds, like Nicks Lake, don’t allow motorized boats, making it peaceful for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor shared, "It is too shallow for motors so kayaks and canoes only which makes it very calm and peaceful."

Camping near Old Forge, New York, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Old Forge, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Old Forge, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 80 campgrounds and RV parks near Old Forge, NY and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Old Forge, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Old Forge, NY is Nicks Lake Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 17 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Old Forge, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Old Forge, NY.

What parks are near Old Forge, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Old Forge, NY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.