The Adirondack region surrounding Paul Smiths sits at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Summer days average 75°F with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping into the 40s. Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October, with peak season for pet-friendly camping running from late June through Labor Day weekend.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: Trail access from Rollins Pond Campground connects to miles of dog-friendly paths. "We love staying at Rollins Pond in a tent! Our family always meet friendly people and falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane," notes Kristina L.
Fishing access: Saranac Lake Islands offers excellent fishing opportunities accessible by boat. "I find this gem of a campground a few years back. Now, I come back twice a year. There's nothing better than secluded island campsites for my camping and fishing addiction," shares Mele T. The area is known for pike, bass, and panfish.
Swimming holes: Local spots feature varying water temperatures depending on depth and sun exposure. "At the back of the campground to an amazing waterfall on the west branch of the Ausable River and plenty of spots to trout fish/swim. A mile down the road is flume falls trails, which leads to a great swimming hole and various height choice cliff jumping," explains Zachary M. of Wilmington Notch.
Seasonal rental options: For visitors without watercraft, boat rentals become available in June. "The campground's boathouse doesn't open until June/July, which was not mentioned on the website, so we weren't able to rent kayaks to use on the pond," reports Francesca L. about her May visit to Rollins Pond.
What campers like
Island privacy: Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers free primitive sites with excellent separation. "Jones Pond has five primitive campsites along its northeastern shore accessible by a two track service road. The sites are on a first come basis and are free to use. You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit," explains Dylan J.
Morning coffee spots: Waterfront sites allow for scenic breakfast settings. "It was nice splashing around in the water right at our campsite. Even better was watching the sun set over it," shares Amanda K. about Buck Pond. Many campers set up morning routines that take advantage of water views.
Evening gatherings: Fire rings at most sites accommodate evening social time. "It's been years since I've stayed at Rollins pond, mostly because of the long drive. But this year we decided we needed to revisit. We had a waterfront site and we're absolutely delighted to be able to sit on the beach and watch the sunset," reports Amie C.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Site #4 is very large and could be occupied by a large group and multiple vehicles. It is accessible by car/suv/truck. Site #4 is near the water and has a fire ring and access to the water," notes Dylan J. about Jones Pond, where wildlife sightings are common along the shoreline.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary: Wilmington Notch Campground provides free hot showers, but conditions fluctuate. "Bathroom conditions vary at the campground depending on who the staff is from year to year, but all your basic amenities are provided (clean water, showers, bathrooms) and the campground itself is usually clean and well-kept," explains Rachael W.
Site drainage challenges: Some waterfront locations can have wet ground. "We camped on site 188 for 3 nights and really enjoyed having our own private 'beach,' however, we it was extremely boggy! The campground had put down sheets of plywood to help, but still the ground was so soggy that the plywood had eventually 'soaked away,'" reports The Other Kim K. about Meacham Lake.
Pit toilet conditions: Outhouses at remote sites require tolerance. "There are primitive pit toilets - I find leaving the door open to stare at the scenery is best to keep horrible smell from killing you and for aesthetic purposes," advises Molly G. about Saranac Lake Islands.
Pack warm clothing: Temperature drops can be significant regardless of season. "You'll need a tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc. Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours," warns Jerry M.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Meacham Lake Campground offers split camping areas with different family experiences. "This campground is like having 2 campgrounds in one. 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. The other side of the campground is completely different," explains Angela.
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds offer varying recreational options. "The campground on the mountain side has a playground, gem mining, arcade (which needs some love), hiking trails and a common area with some games," reports Nicole S. about Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA.
Ticks and insects: Tick prevention is essential from May through September. "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!" shares Michael G. about Meacham Lake, where tick checks should be performed daily.
Evening entertainment: Mobile vendors provide treats at some locations. "Ice cream truck and firewood truck make the rounds (ice cream truck may just be on weekends). Did I mention the lake views?!" notes Erin about Rollins Pond.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Meadowbrook Campground has varied site accessibility. "The sites in the center of the loop are more open; if I had a larger rig, I'd stick to that area. Some areas get a little tight and the website doesn't provide vehicle length information," advises Jean C.
Water connections: Some campgrounds require adapters. "Luckily I had a water bandit, as the water spigot does not have threads for a hose," notes Nathan S. about Wilmington Notch.
Dump station timing: During peak season, plan for morning waits. "Nice level sites and plenty of room, good for rv or tents. Only issue is bathrooms and showers need up dating, while usable not in good shape," reports John T.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads can deteriorate after rain. "The two track access road is rough and all dirt," warns Dylan J. about Jones Pond, where conditions worsen after precipitation.
