The Adirondack region surrounding Old Forge sits at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations that affect camping conditions. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer days typically range from 65-80°F with cooler nights. Most campgrounds in this mountainous terrain feature mixed hardwood and pine forests with acidic soil conditions that create unique ecosystem characteristics.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Cranberry Lake Campground offers excellent water recreation options with direct lake access. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking. While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campground itself, they are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" a camper reported about their experience at Cranberry Lake Campground.
Winter activities: Unlike most seasonal operations, some rv parks near Old Forge remain open during winter months. "Close to skiing. Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available," notes a visitor at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Day trip opportunities: Many campers use the region as a base for exploring. "Close to Lakes to Paddle, Store and Gas not far. Camp is quite more for Adults, no playgrounds or things for kids to do. Full hook ups and pull thru sites. Not very private you are close to your neighbors. Great for Day trips around the area," explains a visitor at Thornbush Acres RV Park.
What campers like
Lakefront camping options: Multiple rv parks near Old Forge feature direct water access. "There are a lot of options here, there are over 200 sites, scattered around Lewey and Indian Lakes. Some are crude and just off the highway, and some are palatial and able to take pretty large RVs," writes a visitor to Lewey Lake Campground.
Water recreation: The connected waterways provide extended paddling opportunities. "The lake is gorgeous and you can do a lot of different water activities. I brought my kayak and my friend brought her stand up paddle board. We spent all day on Saturday on the water soaking up the sun," shares another Lewey Lake camper.
Riverside swimming: Several campgrounds feature natural swimming areas. "The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water..rain or shine that's what they did," describes a visitor at HTR Adirondacks.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions at Old Forge area RV parks. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," warns a visitor at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly throughout the region. "The sites 205-174 are all along the brook and the sound at night is really relaxing for sleeping," advises a Lewey Lake camper who adds, "you HAVE to keep all your food covered in a sealed container."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region, with many campgrounds having limited or no service. "I use T-Mobile and there is no cell phone or wifi service," notes a recent visitor to Lewey Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer better family amenities than others. "There is a volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards. There is a bus from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking," explains a family at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Swimming options: Natural water features provide recreation for children. "The beach is wonderful for kids but many sites have fantastic water access. The campground and its facilites are in good shape, bath houses are new and have the dishwashing station," notes a camper at Lewey Lake.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "We stayed at Kayuta Lake Campground during the Redneck Yacht Club weekend, but we later discovered that this contest was just for seasonal campers. My five year old, husband, and Dad all signed up for laser tag. They had such an awesome time! That certainly is a fabulous amenity."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Many RV parks in Old Forge have specific terrain challenges. "The roads and lot signs are scarce and other than handing us a very inaccurate map of the property, we were on our own. We damaged our rig getting to our lot. The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns," cautions an RVer at HTR Adirondacks.
Seasonal considerations: RV accommodations change dramatically with seasons. "Most of the campsites along are loop were great, nice and level. Ours was pretty well shaded, which would be really great for the summer, but we had a little bit chillier than normal temperatures, so things would start getting cold around 4PM," reports a fall visitor to Lewey Lake.
Off-season accessibility: Several Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground visitors note its special seasonal considerations. "We had to contend with a day and a half of rain out of 3 days. Small quiet park, sites are large not all sites have the same electric, there 2- 50 amp, some 30 amps and some 15 Amp."
