125 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Adirondack region surrounding Paul Smiths, New York, with options ranging from primitive sites to developed campgrounds. The area includes notable locations such as Fish Creek Pond Campground and Buck Pond Campground, both offering waterfront camping experiences within short driving distance. Established campgrounds typically provide tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities, while primitive options like Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offer more secluded experiences. Little Green Pond provides additional dispersed camping options with designated sites situated on the water, particularly appealing for campers seeking quieter alternatives to the more developed facilities.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with typical openings from May through September or early October. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Adirondacks, with cool temperatures even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many campgrounds, especially at more remote sites like Jones Pond and Little Green Pond. Many primitive sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with maximum stay limits of three nights without permits. The access roads to primitive sites often require higher clearance vehicles, as noted by one camper who mentioned, "The two track access road is rough and all dirt," when describing Jones Pond.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the Paul Smiths area, with several visitors highlighting the pristine lake and pond views. Many sites at Fish Creek Pond Campground sit just feet from the water, making them ideal for paddling enthusiasts. Privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with Buck Pond offering more secluded sites compared to the more open layout at Fish Creek. A visitor to Buck Pond noted, "Our site was tucked back into some trees and you couldn't see any other sites from it. To look around, it was as if we had all of the Adirondacks to ourselves!" Primitive sites generally provide greater solitude but fewer amenities, often limited to pit toilets and fire rings. Campground density also varies, with some locations allowing larger groups and multiple vehicles, while others are better suited for smaller camping setups.
"Most of the campsites at Fish Creek Pond are along the waterfront, offering easy access to the pond. Some campers even build temporary docks that they leave behind for subsequent campers."
"Bike path, kayak rentals, close to Lake Placid Olympic center, Wild Center in Tupper Lake"
from $22 - $40 / night
Check Availability"As it isn't too far of a drive for us, it quickly became our go-to campgrounds for quite a while due to the mostly flat campground and who doesn't love hearing the slow trickle of water splashing close"
"It was generally quiet Memorial Day weekend, and we were able to snag a lakeside site with plenty of trees and space for our tent, SUV, and more."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Outhouse was a little rough around the edges, but doable. Town is close by for ice and things. Our island had 4 other campsites on it and we barely saw or heard our neighbors."
"This lake is so peaceful and the remote islands that are only accessible by boat make this spot really special. It's a gorgeous place to get away from everything and to really connect to nature."
from $22 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Close to hiking trails, Whiteface Mt Parkway & Lake Placid. Nice, helpful staff. It is NOT wheelchair accessible. There are steep steps to the office, no grab bars in the bathrooms."
"Very large and busy campground, close to Lake Placid and other cool activities to take in. Pros- hot showers, convenient laundromat, you are guided to your site by staff on golf carts."
"Buck Pond is a quiet, sublime campground about 20 minutes from Paul Smiths College. The sites are sandy and our site was mostly flat. Some sites do have an uphill driveway lined with trees. "
"Our site was tucked back into some trees and you couldn't see any other sites from it. To look around, it was as if we had all of the Adirondacks to ourselves!"
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"We spent a week here and didn't have a lakeside site, but one of the small ones on the stream. Great place to visit. If you do score a lakeside site, your views will be spectacular!"
"One side of the lake is a bit crowded and can get rowdy. This side has flush toilets and showers. There are waterfront sites here."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"This is a very basic campground situated in a small village in the Adirondacks – situated between Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. "
"It's an average campground, but has a really good location between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. Our site had the standard DEC picnic table and fire pit."
from $18 - $40 / night
Check Availability"There is a hand launch for small boats/kayaks to access the pond near the entrance. Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road."
"It took me about two hours 45 minutes and well worth the drive, I first stopped at site four and fully set up my Truck tent and the rest of camp, awesome location."
"Some require driving down a bumpy access road that can be muddy after a rain. Sites are on the Pond. Pond has a small beach to swim. Tree covered sites."
ScoutOne of the best parts for us was not having to pack up the RV every time we wanted to go somewhere. We stayed put and explored the Adirondacks from here. Lake Champlain, Ausable Chasm and a bunch of other spots were all easy to get to.
ScoutGreat setting. We were there by ourselves, so very quiet place to view the sky. The hookups were 50A only, no 30A connection, so we just used a conversion to 20A.
ScoutHaving the river and Adirondacks nearby made for a really nice change of scenery. We spent our days exploring and came back to the campground for dinner and a fire.
GuideA few sites around the lake all seem to have good to great view of the lake. Ours was nice but next to a house no one was there! However The site had lots of room! The road was mildly rough. But nothing worth complaining about it’s dispersed camping! There was a few loons making noise great spot.
ScoutWe were looking for somewhere to stay while checking out Ausable Chasm and this worked out really well. Easy drive over, then back to the camper in the afternoon. Made the whole trip alot easier.
ScoutWe only planned on staying a few nights but ended up adding another week. Once we got settled in, it was hard to leave.
TravelerThis area has two drive-up camping spots each with a picnic table and fire pit. One site is on the lake side of the small road which had very few other drivers. This lakeside spot has small paths to access the shore and decent shade. The other site, about a quarter mile down the road, is tucked into the woods and feels more private. It has a more open view of the lake and paths across the road to access the water. This site is a little muddier in rainy weather and gets more sun.
Some road noise from the highway here but amazing view of the stars at night!
These sites have no running water or bathrooms, however there is both a gas station and port-a-potty about two miles east, though both sites have some woods access that give you privacy (though any waste should be packed out as this area is surrounded by water).
Suprisingly good AT&T coverage, between one and three bars. Sometimes slow but eventually loads.
There is also a boat trailer parking/unloading area between the two sites.
The old route 28 & 30 road is very gravely and uneven - drive slow!
ScoutCame here with our fifth wheel and had plenty of room for everything. Nice spot to use as a home base while exploring the Adirondacks.
ScoutHaving full hookups made this trip so much easier. Pulled in, got everything connected and we were basically settled in no time.
Camping sites near Paul Smiths, New York range from waterfront locations on ponds and lakes to forest sites tucked into the hemlock groves. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet, contributing to temperature variations that can drop 30 degrees from day to night even in summer months. Most primitive campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October, with water access serving as a primary attraction for paddlers.
Paddling expeditions: Little Green Pond offers 12 designated camping spots with easy water access for canoeing and kayaking. "You hear the word 'pond' and you might think of a small body of water however this 'pond' is massive. It's more like a lake," notes Amanda K. about Rollins Pond Campground.
Island camping adventures: For a more remote experience, paddle to island sites at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground. "I have camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row. The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place!" shares Joanna H.
Hiking trails: Access trails directly from some campgrounds without needing to drive. At Meadowbrook Campground, "There's a trail to Scarface that leaves from the campground. Like many of the towns in the area, Saranac has a hiking challenge. Complete 6 hikes in the area and earn a patch; Scarface is one of the 6," explains Jean C.
Waterfront access: Many campers value sites directly on water. At Fish Creek Pond Campground, "The water is super shallow all along the shoreline. It's perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water. The bottom is sandy with some rocks, good to have water shoes but not essential," according to Oleńka S.
Privacy between sites: Buck Pond Campground offers more secluded sites compared to busier locations. "Sites are large enough to have an RV, a canopy, and a small tent, or several tents. There is a canoe/kayak rental at the campground as well as a beach," notes Danielle S.
Natural sounds: Campers frequently mention the peaceful sounds at night. At Rollins Pond Campground, Kristina L. appreciates "falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: While some campgrounds offer modern facilities, primitive sites have basic amenities. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, "There are two pit toilets, both primitive, one of which did not have a door when we visited," reports Dylan J.
Site accessibility considerations: Many primitive sites require specific vehicles or hiking in. At Jones Pond, "The two track access road is rough and all dirt. 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," according to Dylan J.
Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities are available in Paul Smiths, NY?
Paul Smiths offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year. In summer, enjoy paddling, fishing, and swimming in the region's numerous lakes and ponds. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. Mountain biking is popular on local trails, while wildlife viewing opportunities abound. The area around Lake Durant Campground showcases spectacular fall foliage. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Birch's Lakeside Campground and Marina provides boat rentals and water access for exploring the region's interconnected waterways.
Where can I find camping near Paul Smiths in the Adirondacks?
The Adirondacks around Paul Smiths offer excellent camping options. Meacham Lake Campground provides drive-in access with reservable sites that accommodate RVs. For a more secluded experience, Rollins Pond Campground near Saranac Lake features waterfront sites. Both public and private options exist, with state campgrounds typically offering more primitive settings and private campgrounds providing additional amenities. Most campgrounds in the area are open from May through October, with peak season in July and August. Many sites can be reserved in advance, though some operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is Paul Smiths College known for?
Paul Smiths College is renowned for its environmental and natural resource programs, particularly forestry, wildlife, and natural resource management. Located in the heart of the Adirondacks near Buck Pond Campground, the college emphasizes hands-on outdoor education with its campus situated on Lower St. Regis Lake. The college maintains a strong focus on sustainability, hospitality management, and culinary arts programs. Its unique setting provides students with immediate access to 14,000 acres of college-owned lands that serve as living laboratories for environmental studies and outdoor recreation.
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