Tent camping near Paradox, New York provides access to the higher elevation zones of the Adirondack Park, where temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months. The region contains numerous backcountry sites above 3,000 feet, with Sno-Bird Campsite sitting above 4,000 feet as the highest designated camping area in the park. Most backcountry sites require significant hiking effort, with trails often becoming extremely muddy and rocky.
What to do
Summit nearby peaks: From Lake Colden, tent campers can attempt multiple High Peaks in a single trip. According to one visitor, "From Lake Colden, if you'd like to bag some peaks you can hike Mt. Colden, Mt. Skyline, the backside of Mt. Marcy, or Algonquin Peak. A word of caution, I'm in relatively good shape and I found some of these hikes quite strenuous."
Explore flowed lands: The historic dam area near Flowed Lands offers opportunities for photography and nature observation. A camper notes, "The lake is gorgeous, although it wasn't as big as I thought it was going to be... The campsites are close to the water, which makes for a great wake up call in the morning. I loved un-zipping my tent and seeing the lake first thing in the morning."
Filter water from natural sources: Most backcountry campgrounds have accessible water sources for filtering. At Lillian Brook Campground, one camper reported, "You have the Lillian brook flowing right next to it. Clear water with big rock pool to swim in (COLD). You can collect the water but use a filter or tabs to be safe."
What campers like
Remote solitude: Davey Falls ADK Creekside offers private tent sites away from crowds. A camper described it as an "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails. Perfect location to explore eastern Adk."
Strategic camping locations: Positioning tent sites to access multiple trails makes for efficient hiking trips. At Feldspar Lean-to, one visitor noted, "If you're coming from Marcy Dam by way of Lake Colden, this campsite is a great spot to stop for the night on the way to Mt. Marcy. There's a good water flow for water that is safe to drink."
Lake views: Waterfront tent sites provide memorable camping experiences. At Narrow Island Group on Lake George, a camper shared: "I have stayed on Nobles Island & Floating Battery Island in the Narrows of Lake George. You must have a power boat ride out there or be up for a long paddle. TAKE EVERYTHING you need including extra ice. Once there, settle in & relax, you aren't going anywhere."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear-resistant food canisters are mandatory throughout the region, with some types being more effective than others. A camper at Lake Colden warns, "Must have a bear safe food container (available at ADK lodges), some rangers consider the clear blue bear cans unsafe since bears in the area have been known to break into them!"
Fire restrictions: Many high-elevation campsites prohibit open fires. At South Meadow Campground, a visitor emphatically notes, "not South meadows rd. NO FIRES ALLOWED!"
Site availability: Many backcountry sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. A Lake Colden camper advised, "Limited campsites: you can camp only in designated areas and there is a 5 person limit to each site, try to come early during peak season as these do fill up."
Weather preparedness: High-elevation sites experience rapid weather changes and colder temperatures. At Sno-Bird, one camper reported, "It's a very high campsite...So it's windy and colder at night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with younger children, selecting tent sites with shorter hiking distances reduces frustration. The Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake offers family-friendly options. One camper noted, "I was absolutely impressed with the restrooms, dishwashing station, and beach area... Despite rather high density of sites they are well designed and the campground is quiet and dark at night for good rest!"
Pack for variable temperatures: Even summer nights can be cold, especially at higher elevations. One family at Wilderness Campground reported, "My boyfriend and I braved the 12° nights and pitched a tent."
Consider lean-tos: Wooden shelters provide additional protection from elements for family camping. A visitor at Wilderness Campground shared, "Lean to camping at it's best! The lean to I had was right on the lake and on the edge of the campground. It's a bit of a trek to a bathroom but well worth it."
Be mindful of site conditions: Many tent sites can become very wet, especially after rain. At Sno-Bird, a camper warned, "Snowbird is very wet and some sites are rooty... Just be aware that some if not all sites could have several inches of water at anytime of the year."
Tips from RVers
Limited options: The Paradox Lake region offers few designated RV sites, with most camping being tent-focused or hike-in only. At Narrow Island, a visitor cautioned, "You must have a power boat ride out there or be up for a long paddle. TAKE EVERYTHING you need including extra ice."
Consider seasonal timing: For those with small RVs that can access the limited developed sites, shoulder seasons offer better availability. At Wilderness Campground, a visitor recommended weekday stays: "We had a very pleasant stay here and personally found the weekdays to be best for 'camp days' given there were few people—weekends are PACKED."
