Camping near Old Forge, NY

Camping spots near Old Forge, New York range from lakefront state facilities to remote forest campsites across the 6 million acre Adirondack Park. The region sits at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet, creating cooler microclimates compared to surrounding lowlands. Most campgrounds open from mid-May through early October, with some wilderness sites accessible year-round during winter snowmobile season.

What to Do

Paddling on quiet lakes: At Limekiln Lake Campground, the amber-colored water creates unique paddling opportunities. "The lake this time of year is beautiful and clear and a very nice temperature for dunking in. There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks," notes one camper who enjoyed multiple water activities from their site.

Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Stillwater Reservoir offer excellent wildlife observation. "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family," shares a visitor. Many sites provide direct lake access for quiet observation of waterfowl.

Stargazing from campsites: Clear nights reveal spectacular night skies away from light pollution. A camper at Brown Tract Pond Campground describes: "As the sun sets and the stars come out, you'll look up and suddenly realize just how small you are as you stare at the heavens and see the Milky Way."

What Campers Like

Spacious sites for groups: Many campgrounds feature unusually large camping areas. A visitor to Golden Beach Campground mentioned their site was "spacious, with room for two cars, 4 kayaks, and two tents" and noted the park has "massive sites" where multiple camping units can fit comfortably.

Secluded camping options: For those seeking privacy, the forest roads of Moose River Plains lead to well-spaced primitive sites. "Well spread out sites. Privy, fire pit, and picnic table at most sites," reports one camper, with another noting "sites are numbered, flat, and contain a picnic table, fire ring, and privy."

Motor-free lakes: Several ponds restrict motorized vessels, creating peaceful environments for paddlers. According to a visitor at Brown Tract Pond, "There are no motorboats allowed on the lake, so the water is perfect for paddling." Another camper adds that "when it's quiet hours, the only thing you hear is nature and the occasional crackle of someone's fire."

What You Should Know

Bear safety requirements: Bears frequent many campgrounds in the region. "Heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," advises one camper at Old Forge Camping Resort. Another mentions that "we had one or two in and around our camp site almost every night."

Remote access considerations: Some sites require difficult approaches. Moose River Plains features "a 23 mile access Moose River Plains road" and another camper notes you should "take it slow and you should get through with any vehicle, but I would recommend only high clearance 8" plus vehicles."

Limited services: Cell coverage varies significantly. One camper notes "No cell service or WiFi" at Brown Tract Pond while another at Limekiln Lake mentions "the campground has pay phones where all in-state numbers are free to call."

Seasonal pest challenges: Black flies can be problematic in late spring. A camper at Limekiln Lake warned "Black flies are brutal in end of May beginning of June" while another at Moose River Plains found "Terrible bug season at the moment (6/12-6/15) with the black flies."

Tips for Camping with Families

Easy-access water activities: Kid-friendly water options abound at several campgrounds. One visitor to HTR Adirondacks described how teens "spent almost every waking moment in the water" and "were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids."

Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation areas. "It has a pretty little pond for swimming and paddle boats, a short hiking trail around the pond," notes a camper at Old Forge Camping Resort, which also features "a volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards."

Campground transportation: At busier times, transportation services help families avoid parking hassles. "There is a bus from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking," reports a camper at Old Forge Camping Resort.

Advance reservations essential: Popular family sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Book early and get a site right on the water!" advises a camper about Limekiln Lake, while another at Golden Beach notes "Book early cause they fill up fast."

Tips from RVers

Electric reliability varies: Power infrastructure at some campgrounds struggles with high demand. At HTR Adirondacks, one RVer reported "our power kept kicking off" because "they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have."

Size restrictions matter: Large motorhomes face access challenges on forest roads. "This is NOT a place for big rigs," warns an RVer about HTR Adirondacks, explaining "The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected."

Campsite surface conditions: Weather impacts site quality, especially for heavier RVs. An RVer noted HTR Adirondacks has "lots [that] are also not gravel and not level. Ours was dirt and mostly mud and even with our leveling jacks down, we could not level due to the mud and lack of a gravel base."