Camping in the Adirondack region near Old Forge offers diverse options from primitive tent sites to luxury accommodations. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,200 feet with summer temperatures typically reaching 70-80°F days and cooling to 50-60°F at night. Primitive campsites at Stillwater Reservoir provide lakefront access while requiring campers to bring all necessary supplies including drinking water.
What to do
Water activities on motorboat-free ponds: Brown Tract Pond Campground provides serene paddling experiences on calm waters. A camper noted, "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."
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Little Sandpoint Campground offers direct access to trails with rewarding views. As one visitor mentioned, "The short but steep trail to Echo Cliffs within walking distance was my favorite part because it was so close and you could see Piseco Lake below."
Mining for Herkimer diamonds: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA allows visitors to search for double-terminated quartz crystals. "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space," reported one camper who enjoyed both mining and camping.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Stillwater Reservoir offers 40+ free primitive sites, most accessible only by boat. One camper shared, "Our site had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees."
Private pond camping: DevilDoc Campsites features tent sites around a small pond in a forested setting. A reviewer commented, "We had the entire camp ground to myself so that was even better. It is definitely off the beaten path but well worth it if your just trying to escape a little bit."
Star gazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. One DevilDoc visitor observed, "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 you should know
Bear management regulations: Some campgrounds enforce strict food storage rules. A Brown Tract Pond visitor advised, "Odd bear rules that basically make you pack up your site when not in use, unless you have a trailer or RV. No bear proof lockers to help out like federal campgrounds."
Limited services at primitive sites: Francis Lake offers basic amenities with rustic charm. A camper described it as "totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet. Room for two or three tents, two fire circles and has an outhouse."
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate from May through early October. Delta Lake State Park runs from "May 12 to October 9," and others like Kayuta Lake Campground operate "May 15 - Oct 15," closing before winter conditions arrive.
Tips for camping with families
Tubing opportunities: Kayuta Lake Campground and Marina offers water recreation options for children. A visitor mentioned, "They offered a cute little wagon ride through the grounds and were always friendly and greeted you when they saw you. My five year old, husband, and Dad all signed up for laser tag. They had such an awesome time!"
Wildlife viewing spots: Stillwater Reservoir provides opportunities to observe native species. One camper shared, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Swimming beaches: Many campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. A visitor to Brown Tract Pond noted, "Great beach area for hanging out & water was clean," making it suitable for children of different swimming abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Delta Lake State Park Campground offers electric hookups and accommodates bigger rigs. A camper advised, "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise. The road to get in was for the most part well taken care of."
Access considerations: Several campgrounds have limited access for larger vehicles. For Brown Tract Pond, a reviewer warned, "From the west you will drive over 5 miles on a dirt road (slow going if towing)."
Hookup variations: Kayuta Lake Campground provides different utility options. "Not all sites have full hookups, some are just power, some are only grey water, and some are full," explained one RVer, noting the importance of checking specific site amenities when booking.
