Best Tent Camping near Paul Smiths, NY

Tent campsites near Paul Smiths, New York range from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites within the Adirondack Park wilderness. Saranac Lake Islands offers boat-in tent camping on secluded islands, while Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites provides free tent camping along the northeastern shore of the pond. Several backcountry options exist for hikers seeking more remote experiences, including Ward Brook Campsite and Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites, both located within hiking distance of popular Adirondack peaks.

Most primitive tent campgrounds in this region require campers to be self-sufficient with limited or no amenities. Sites at Jones Pond feature fire rings but lack drinking water, requiring filtration from natural sources. Bear-resistant food containers are mandatory at backcountry sites like Lake Colden and Marcy Dam, as black bear activity is common throughout the region. Vault toilets are available at most established sites, though backcountry locations often have rustic pit privies without toilet paper. Seasonal considerations include spring mud, summer insects, and early fall temperature drops that can reach 30-40°F at night even during summer months.

The tent camping experience in the Adirondacks offers exceptional access to hiking trails and water recreation. Sites near Lake Colden serve as ideal basecamps for day hikes to surrounding peaks including Mt. Colden, Mt. Skylight, and Algonquin Peak. Waterfront tent sites at Saranac Lake Islands provide swimming access directly from campsites. Privacy varies significantly between locations, with island sites offering the most seclusion. According to one visitor, "There's something novelty about getting in a boat and paddling to your island for the week!" Winter camping is possible at some locations, though lean-tos are recommended for cold-weather tent campers as snowpack can remain until late May at higher elevations.

Best Tent Sites Near Paul Smiths, New York (22)

    1. Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground

    15 Reviews
    Saranac Lake, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-2841

    $22 - $40 / night

    "You'll need a boat or canoe (rentals available in Saranac Lake). Sites have tables, fire rings, and outhouses. You'll need a tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc."

    "All campsites have picnic tables, firepits/grills, and privies. Saranac Lake Marina has great rental boats. I even think the dogs look forward to these camping trips."

    2. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites

    3 Reviews
    Rainbow Lake, NY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 897-1200

    "It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite. Which of course would make our dogs bark at them."

    "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."

    3. Middle Pond Campsite

    1 Review
    Lake Clear, NY
    9 miles

    "This campsite is a first come first serve site located along Floodwood Road. The site sits on Middle Pond. Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months."

    4. Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake

    9 Reviews
    Lake Placid, NY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 523-3441

    $25 - $55 / night

    "There’s no explaining the views around here. The mountains are beautiful, Lake Placid is beautiful, and this campsite is amazing."

    "Rode in on a motorcycle late at night expecting to not be able to get in, but you can take a parking pass and drop an envelope with your fee at the entrance booth. $15 for a full day $8 after 1PM."

    5. Blueberry lean-to campground

    1 Review
    Ray Brook, NY
    18 miles

    "On the Blueberry trail not far from the Ward lean-to.

    Very close to the trail to Seward, Donaldson and Emmons.

    Lean-to, privy, fire pit, table, and water around."

    6. Ward Brook Campsite

    1 Review
    Ray Brook, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 897-1200

    "Fire pit, picnic table, and a privy. 

    A bit further you will find some tent spots too. 

    Plenty of water around."

    7. Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Keene Valley, NY
    24 miles
    Website

    "This campground is conveniently located near the trails for Mt. Marcy, Mt. Colden, and Avalanche Pass. Everything is first come first serve."

    "The scenery was gorgeous and there were lots of nice hikes around."

    8. Flowed Lands

    3 Reviews
    Keene Valley, NY
    26 miles
    Website

    "The view of the lake is stunning, and there's a quick walk down to the edge of the lake."

    "The lake is gorgeous, although it wasn't as big as I thought it was going to be. I went late August, so I beat the initial summer rush, but there was still a good amount of people there."

    9. MacIntyre Brook Falls campground

    1 Review
    Lake Placid, NY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 897-1200

    "It's on a side trail (left side).

    Bear canisters required."

    10. Feldspar Lean-to

    3 Reviews
    Keene Valley, NY
    27 miles

    "One lean-to and 3 campsites.

    2 near the lean-to across the bridge.

    1 on the other side.

    There's also a privy.

    It's far out and the only way to access is by hiking."

    "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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Paul Smiths, NY

444 Reviews of 22 Paul Smiths Campgrounds



Guide to Paul Smiths

Tent camping near Paul Smiths, New York, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

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Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $40

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Paul Smiths, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Paul Smiths, NY is Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 15 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Paul Smiths, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near Paul Smiths, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.