Tent camping near Peru, New York provides access to Lake Champlain's island wilderness and Adirondack mountain terrain within a 40-mile radius. The region receives approximately 35 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forested camping environments throughout the spring and summer months. Weather conditions can change rapidly due to the proximity of both mountains and lake, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during daytime and dropping to 50-55°F overnight.
What to do
Paddle to remote islands: Knight Island State Park Campground offers waterfront tent sites accessible only by private boat. "Not for the faint of heart, Knight Island is only accessible by private boat, though there are a few unregulated boat taxis that will agree to take the boat-less out there. It doesn't host a ton of amenities other than outdoor toilets, but it doesn't need to because every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming," notes Ruby L.
Explore lake swimming spots: Burton Island State Park Campground tent sites provide swimming access in multiple locations. "The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming. The northern part has shale beaches, and a few areas of mucky/pebbly beaches," writes Rita M.
Hike summit trails: Mount Philo State Park Campground offers tent sites with access to sunset viewing hikes. "The best part is every night it's only a ten minute hike to the summit from where the sites are and you get to watch the sunset over Vermont and lake champlain as the sun falls behind the adirondack mountains," says Thomas B.
What campers like
Private sites separated from neighbors: Adirondack Acres Trail and Camps offers exceptional privacy. Samuel B. reports, "This prime location is very private. There is absolutely no one around as far as the eye can see in the area close to the river."
Car-free camping experience: Campers appreciate the separation from vehicles at island sites. A Burton Island visitor stated, "It is a car free paradise that requires a boat or ferry to get to but yield the rewards of peace, nature, and gorgeous shoreline."
Wilderness sites with good fishing access: Visitors to Knight Island State Park note its fishing opportunities: "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing. Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island."
What you should know
Island camping requires planning: Woods Island State Park Campground visitors must coordinate transportation carefully. "There is no ferry service to the island and visitors must make their own arrangements. There are no docks; visitors must either beach their boat or anchor off. The beach tends to be fairly rocky, except for a point along the east shore, from which the walk to campsites is between one-quarter and three-quarters of a mile."
Water access limitations: Many remote sites have no drinking water. At Burton Island, "Sites are carry in/carry out" while Woods Island notes that "Remote area campsites, while beautiful, are not for everybody. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply."
Reservations needed for prime sites: Mount Philo camping spots fill quickly. "Only 8 campsites, dispersed in the trees. $23/night. Picnic table and fire pit. Moderate cell service," reports Kaelin P.
Tips for camping with families
Consider transport logistics for gear: Indian Brook Reservoir requires planning for site access. One camper warned, "I mistakenly assumed they had drive up campsites. They do not. It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over."
Pick boat-in sites for swimming access: Campers with children enjoy direct water access at Burton Island. "We went fishing, swimming, and out in a canoe. We rented a canoe from the campground and paddled over to Wood Island," notes a visitor.
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential, especially mid-island. A Knight Island visitor cautions, "Beware: mosquitoes and black flies in the middle of the island can be nasty, sometimes better to take the perimeter route."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Peru: Tent camping dominates the immediate area, with few developed RV sites. Saranac Lake Islands offers some motorboat-accessible camping alternatives. "We rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula (not one of the very sought after islands but just as neat) on the middle saranac," notes Sambath T.
Prepare for primitive amenities: Even accessible sites have minimal facilities. "Sites have tables, fire rings, and outhouses. You'll need a tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc. Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours," advises Jerry M.
Consider renting equipment: For tent camping near Peru without an RV, equipment rental options exist. "We rented 3 canoes to get to the island, which was a little pricey so if you have your own, it's worth the haul," suggests Gabrielle C.
