Tent campsites near Owls Head, New York provide access to the northern Adirondack region where elevation ranges between 1,500-2,500 feet above sea level. The area experiences temperature variations with summer highs averaging 75-80°F during day and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below 0°F with annual snowfall exceeding 100 inches in parts of the region.
What to do
Water activities on nearby ponds: Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers fishing and paddling opportunities with easy water access. A camper noted the site has "a hand launch for small boats/kayaks to access the pond near the entrance" and sites where you're "right on the water, I mean right on the water."
Island exploration: At Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground, you can paddle to your own island campsite. "We came from the Albany area. It took me about two hours 45 minutes and well worth the drive," shared one camper at Jones Pond. On Saranac Lake, another visitor mentioned, "We rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula on the middle saranac. One of the coolest experiences I've ever had in my life."
Hiking trails: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake provides direct access to multiple peaks. One camper explained, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground." Another mentioned, "It has some trail heads on the grounds and so much to do in the area it is located."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: At Valcour Island, campers appreciate the remote boat-in sites. A long-time visitor shared, "I have been camping on this island for just over 30 years, and my father camped there for another 30 prior to that. It is one of my favorite places in the whole world."
Waterfront access: The ability to camp directly beside water is highly valued. At Middle Pond Campsite, a visitor described it as a "Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months. Off season is generally when you will find this campsite available."
Wildlife encounters: The region offers opportunities to observe native Adirondack wildlife. At Jones Pond, one camper mentioned, "The dog loved the water being right there" while another at Saranac Lake noted being "surrounded by nature- water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!"
What you should know
Access limitations: Many campsites require specific transportation methods. For Burton Island, "You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans." Similarly, at Valcour Island, remember it's "Beautiful Boat access only camping. Pick anchorage or sites early as it's always busy on weekends."
Weather preparation: The Adirondack region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. At Burton Island State Park Campground, a camper advised, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, a visitor warned, "Beware of the roads coming in. 40MPH is too fast for these torn up roads" while another noted the "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly islands: Burton Island offers a safe, car-free environment. A regular visitor observed, "It's super family friendly - maybe it's because there aren't cars all over the place, but the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. One camper at Saranac Lake with children mentioned they "caught frogs at our shoreline, rented a paddleboard, played in the waves, and enjoyed the icecream sandwiches from the camp store."
Varied accommodation options: If tent camping seems challenging for your family, consider alternatives. At Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps, the location is "very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river." Burton Island also offers cabins where "if you don't want to rough it, you don't have to."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV sites: Most primitive camping areas near Owls Head accommodate small rigs only. At Jones Pond, a camper noted, "Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV."
Careful site selection: Choose sites appropriate for your vehicle. One visitor explained, "The campsites are perfect for a short stay with a tent or suv camper. The two track access road is rough and all dirt."
Gear transport options: Some destinations offer assistance with equipment. At Burton Island, "You can borrow a cart to bring your gear to your site, or you can pay one of the park rangers to haul it in one of their golf carts."
