Tent camping options near Parishville, New York include several sites within the western Adirondack Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. The area experiences typical northeastern seasonal variations with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and evening lows potentially dropping to 45-55°F even during peak season. Most primitive sites in this region require visitors to follow strict carry-in, carry-out protocols for waste management.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The waters around Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground provide excellent fishing experiences. "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- surrounded by nature- water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!" notes camper Sambath T.
Swimming and water recreation: Many sites offer direct water access for swimming. One camper at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground reported, "Beautiful site. Quite a climb up to the actual site. Great swimming from site. Found a great rock to jump from. Lots of loons, toads and fish."
Wildlife observation: The Adirondack region hosts diverse wildlife including loons, toads, and various fish species. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, campers enjoy pond views where "The views from site #4 of the pond were beautiful," according to Dylan J.
Hiking nearby mountains: For more adventurous campers, tent sites serve as baselines for mountain exploration. Alex R. describes Ward Brook Campsite as a "Great campsite at the bottom of Seymour mountain" with amenities that include a "fire pit, picnic table, and a privy."
What campers like
Secluded island camping: The unique island locations provide exceptional privacy. "Huge sites, a lot of privacy (nearest campsite in most cases is not even visible)," reports Kelly H. from Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground. Another camper added, "One of the best camping trips I have ever experienced. The island we stayed on only had two other sites."
Waterfront access: Direct waterfront placement ranks high among camper preferences. At Middle Pond Campsite, Kurt V. notes, "This campsite sits on Middle Pond. Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months. Off season is generally when you will find this campsite available."
Simple amenities at primitive sites: The basic facilities at primitive sites satisfy many campers. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, Robert K. shared his experience: "I came from the Albany area. It took me about two hours 45 minutes and well worth the drive... absolutely beautiful the dog loved the water being right there."
Weather variability: The changing Adirondack weather creates diverse experiences. Jerry M. advises, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many sites require specific transportation methods. At Blueberry lean-to campground, Alex R. notes it's "On the Blueberry trail not far from the Ward lean-to" requiring hiking access.
Unpaved road conditions: Several campgrounds have rough access roads requiring appropriate vehicles. At Jones Pond, Dylan J. warns "The two track access road is rough and all dirt," while another reviewer specifically mentions "definitely need four-wheel-drive" to reach site five.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Busy periods significantly impact site availability. Tyler C. reports, "It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite." Kurt V. similarly advises about Middle Pond Campsite that "Off season is generally when you will find this campsite available."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer minimal amenities. One camper mentions that Jones Pond has "two pit toilets, both primitive, one of which did not have a door when we visited."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Sites with water access require vigilance. A camper at Saranac Lake Islands notes, "We jumped from the rocks and swam and played games," but parents should monitor children around water areas constantly.
Pack appropriate supplies: The lack of services requires thorough planning. According to Jerry M., families should bring "tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc." and specifically mentions temperature changes requiring warm clothing for nights.
Consider watercraft rental options: Accessing certain campsites requires boats. Mele T. at Ward Brook Campsite suggests "Saranac Lake Marina has great rental boats," enabling families to reach island sites.
Manage expectations about facilities: Primitive toilets can challenge families with young children. One camper candidly advises about the outhouses: "I find leaving the door open to stare at the scenery is best to keep horrible smell from killing you and for aesthetic purposes."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most primitive sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. At Middle Pond Campsite, the drive-in options work primarily for smaller vehicles rather than traditional RVs.
Site #1 exception at Jones Pond: One reviewer notes specifically that "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."
SUV camping alternatives: The rough access roads favor smaller recreational vehicles. Dylan J. suggests that "The campsites are perfect for a short stay with a tent or suv camper" at Jones Pond.
Multiple trips for gear: With limited vehicle access, RVers must adapt. One camper reported, "Canoed into our campsite, #15. It took 3 trips to bring in all our gear."
