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Best Tent Camping near Putnam Station, NY

657 Reviews

Lake George Islands near Putnam Station, New York offer unique tent camping experiences with several island-based campgrounds accessible primarily by boat. Narrow Island Group and Glen Island Group provide tent-only sites with seasonal availability from May through early September. Rogers Rock Campground, located north of Putnam Station, features mainland tent sites as well as island campsites at Flirtation Island, Waltonian Island, and Temple Knoll Island. Davey Falls ADK, situated northwest of Putnam Station, provides walk-in tent sites with basic amenities including showers and toilets but no drinking water.

Tent campsites throughout the region vary considerably in surface conditions and accessibility. Island sites require boat transportation, with campers needing to bring all supplies as resupply options are limited once on-site. Most established tent campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, though primitive sites may have only basic clearings. Bear-resistant food storage is essential in backcountry areas, particularly in the Adirondack High Peaks region. Pit toilets are available at most established sites, but many primitive tent camping locations require proper waste disposal techniques. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with sites at higher elevations experiencing colder temperatures and stronger winds.

In early fall, tent campers often find greater solitude at Lake George Islands as summer crowds diminish. According to reviews, island camping requires thorough preparation: "Take everything you need including extra ice. Once there, settle in and relax, you aren't going anywhere." Campers frequently note the contrast between daytime boat traffic and peaceful evenings. Sites at Rogers Rock Campground provide a balance between accessibility and natural setting, with tent sites spaced for privacy. Backcountry tent camping areas in the nearby Adirondack High Peaks offer more seclusion but require proper equipment and wilderness skills. First-time visitors to primitive tent sites should arrive early during peak season, as the most desirable locations fill quickly, especially on summer weekends.

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Best Tent Sites Near Putnam Station, New York (42)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Putnam Station, NY

62 Photos of 42 Putnam Station Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Putnam Station, NY

657 Reviews of 42 Putnam Station Campgrounds

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2022

    Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter on the AT in Vermont — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Basic AT shelter with lots of tent camping and swimming hole nearby

    Note: This is a hike in back country shelter with unreliable water and a pit bathroom.

    I tented here on a section hike of the AT. The shelter was a fairly basic 8ish person shelter, but this stop stood out because of a brand new privvy, large tenting areas, and a swimming hole and consistent water just a bit further down the trail (when heading northbound).

    For camping, there were a few large tent areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level.

    The privvy looked brand new and was more spacious than most on the trail.

    There was no water on the shelter, but there was plenty of water at Stony Brook / Mink Brook a bit further northbound. I only explored a bit offtrail down the brook but found a decent swimming hole (could just barely submerge myself) to clean off a bit.

    There was also a bear box here, which I hadn't seen at other shelters along the AT in Vermont (heading southbound).

    Although the shelter was fairly basic, I would keep this on my list as a go-to place to stop if I was planning to hike in the area.

  • Kate K.
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Camel's Hump State Park — Camels Hump State Park

    Amazing Hike! Great Campground

    This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit. The views are pretty epic though. The designated primitive camping area is about 1.5 miles into the hike. If I recall it had about 10-12 sites. The area had a host who was there 24/7 and a shared area for eating and food storage (I guess Bear’s are a problem there). We hiked all day, so we didn’t have a fire and to be honest I can’t remember if there was a shared spot for them or not. Either way, this hike was gorgeous and so was the camping. I would love to go back!

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2022

    Gifford Woods State Park Campground

    Quiet and well maintained campground

    I tent camped here before doing a section hike of the Appalachian Trail and it was one of the best campgrounds I’ve stayed at before.

    The sites have some privacy and woods in between, though the tent sites vs. shelters and cabins were mostly closer to the access road. All sites were super clean and had a picnic table and fire ring. Most sites had a built in cooking fire structure (vs. a fire ring) they looked great for camp cooking, though my site (T01) seemed to be the only without it.

    The facilities were well-maintained, there were water spigots everywhere, and though I didn’t get a chance to enjoy, there were lots of activities right there (volleyball lawn, the AT running right through the campground, mountain bike trails).

    I didn’t stay in them, but the cabins and lean-tos looked great for group or family options.

    Kent Pond was also just across the road for water activities, and I saw at least one fly fisher out.

    Killington was also right nearby for restaurants and other needs.

    I will definitely be coming back to explore more!

  • Maribeth W.
    Aug. 30, 2016

    Lake Harris Campground

    Wet but beautiful!

    We got rained out!! Our site did have good drainage and ample tree cover so that helped. Easy access to buy firewood on the road into the campground.

  • Lauren S.
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Moosalamoo Campground

    Hidden Gem

    Tucked down a gravel road in the Green Mountain National Forest is this hidden treasure. Large sites, friendly campground host, the moosalamoo trailhead right next to campground. The trail connects to many others. You will pass several trailheads on your way up to the campground. Many of the sites are reservable, others are first come first serve. You will find a pay station as you enter the campsite. The camp host is at site 1. Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling. I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me. Behind the parking spur at the site there is gravel with picnic table and fire pit. Beyond that in the trees was a spot for the tent. I didn’t experience many bugs, no mosquitoes, what I saw the most of were caterpillars. But If you needed bug spray or forgot anything back in town a few miles Ripton grocery has you covered.

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2022

    Greendale Campground

    Greendale campground, Weston Vt.

    Greendale Campground is a small remote campground located along Greendale Brook in Weston, VT.

    There are 11 campsites available in a wooded setting. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a parking spur. Most sites can accommodate small campers as well as tents. There is also a vault toilet.

    The campground offers easy access to the Greendale Loop, a 4.0 mile hike through a mixed forest of northern hardwood and conifer trees with long stretches bordering scenic streams. This loop includes approximately 2 miles of walking along town maintained roads open to vehicular traffic.

    This site is not maintained for winter use. Deep snow often covers amenities at this site December – mid April. The nearest plowed parking area to the campground in the winter is approximately one mile away and access is via skis or snowshoes. My wife and I car camped in July and there were very few campers. Many sites are beside Greendale Brook. The water is clean, refreshing and soothing. Especially soothing while sitting by the campfire.

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience.  The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • Jessica C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Chittenden Brook Campground

    Great site

    This was a great site that feels secluded but isn’t. There’s quite a bit of space between each site so you can’t really see your neighbors which is excellent. The vault toilets were surprisingly clean besides the expected smell/flies. No running water or electricity. No cell service a few miles leading up the site, so download your maps in advance. There’s a 2.5 mile dirt road with a steady incline into the camp, which my subie had no issue with, but not sure how well an RV would fair.

    Didn’t see any bear, but take bear food precautions regardless. Each site has a fire pit, tent platform, and picnic table. The sites were well cared for. There were two dumpsters, one for recycling and one for trash, at the end of the loop. They are bear proof and almost me proof! The constant sound of running water from the brook was truly relaxing. I didn’t have issues with bugs (beginning of August) but I also didn’t stay in the camp during the majority of the day.

    All in all, a great campsite and I’ll definitely be back.

  • Brett N.
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Draper’s Acres

    Great Location, Solid Amenities

    Or site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The office sells firewood. Both bath houses were adequate, even containing shampoo and body wash. Staff was friendly. Some if the sites are rather close to each other, and the proximity to the road was noticeable but my white noise app dealt with that while I slept. Prices were more than fair for what was provided.

Guide to Putnam Station

Tent camping near Putnam Station, New York centers around Lake George, an elongated, glacier-carved lake spanning 32 miles with 176 islands in the southern Adirondack region. Camping elevations range from 320 feet at lake level to higher elevation sites in surrounding mountains. Sites in this region receive approximately 39 inches of precipitation annually, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak camping season and dropping to 40-50°F in early fall.

What to do

Kayaking from island campsites: At Long Island Group, campers can explore Lake George's sheltered coves. "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip," notes Anastasiia T. from Long Island Group — Lake George Islands.

Fish for dinner: Island campers often catch fresh fish for meals. "We ate fresh fish everyday. Great kayaking & hiking," reports a visitor to Narrow Island. Morning and evening hours typically yield better fishing results when boat traffic is minimal.

Winter camping exploration: For off-season adventurers, the surrounding national forest offers primitive sites. "I stayed at this campsite located at the end of upper Michigan road. It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded," shares Keegz M. from Michigan Brook Road Camping.

What campers like

Private island experiences: Some Lake George islands offer complete seclusion. "We rented kayaks and actually reserved a spot on our own private island. It was little, slightly wooded, and private. We went for July 4th and got front row seats for their fireworks over the lake from our private shore," explains Erin H. from Glen Island Group.

Forced relaxation: The boat-access-only nature of island camping creates a unique experience. "Me the wife and our 3 children had an amazing time on our three night stay. Definitely no amenities other than an outhouse but spectacular views and pristine waters. Great fishing, lots of fun to be had on the water and quiet peaceful evening by the campfire," reports Justin B.

Waterfall proximity: For mainland camping options, Davey Falls offers unique water features. "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails. Perfect location to explore eastern Adk," states Keith D. from Davey Falls ADK.

What you should know

Boat requirements: Motor boats are necessary for comfortable access to most island sites. "Definitely need a decent sized boat with a gas outboard to get there. What an experience," notes a Glen Island camper. Canoes and kayaks can reach some closer islands but require significant paddling skills.

Site conditions vary widely: Tent platforms exist at some locations but not all. "There were no leveled space whatsoever (except for one platform per site...but where would a second tent go? On the horrible ground beside it)," reports Ryan from Long Island Group.

Wildlife encounters: Island sites have active wildlife. "The raccoon situation...was bad. We were literally bombarded with a group of raccoons each night," warns one Lake George camper. Food storage in secure containers is essential.

Seasonal road conditions: For mainland forest camping, vehicle capabilities matter. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" cautions Thomas and James S. from Last Light on Michigan Brook.

Tips for camping with families

Reservation timing: Lake George island sites book quickly. "Book 9 months in advance & good luck. Last minute cancellations are a common occurrence though," advises a Narrow Island camper. Sites 3-7 on Long Island offer similar layouts for groups camping together.

Supply planning: Complete provisioning before arrival is crucial. "If you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile," explains a Michigan Brook Road camper regarding access to more remote sites.

Communication preparation: Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many sites. "PLEASE NOTE: THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION. However, if you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service," shares Keegz M.

Tips from RVers

Island camping limitations: Most Lake George islands accommodate tents only. "So much to do at LG. Great island camping with amazing views," notes Richard T. from Long Island Group, though RVs must remain on the mainland.

Remote access considerations: For RVers seeking seclusion, forest roads present challenges. "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning," cautions a Michigan Brook camper regarding winter access. Summer conditions improve but still require higher clearance vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Putnam Station, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Putnam Station, NY is Narrow Island Group — Lake George Islands with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Putnam Station, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 42 tent camping locations near Putnam Station, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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