Best Tent Camping near Rainbow Lake, NY

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Rainbow Lake, NY has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Rainbow Lake. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your New York camping adventure.

Best Tent Sites Near Rainbow Lake, New York (25)

    1. Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground

    15 Reviews
    Saranac Lake, NY
    12 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

    2 Reviews
    Rainbow Lake, NY
    1 mile
    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. Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake

    9 Reviews
    Lake Placid, NY
    22 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."

    4. Middle Pond Campsite

    1 Review
    Lake Clear, NY
    13 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."

    5. Blueberry lean-to campground

    1 Review
    Ray Brook, NY
    20 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
    20 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. 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."

    9. 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."

    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 25 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Rainbow Lake, NY

537 Reviews of 25 Rainbow Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Rainbow Lake

Tent camping near Rainbow Lake, New York, offers a serene escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve features spacious, private sites on remote islands, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy primitive camping.
  • At the Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, campers can enjoy modern conveniences like drinking water and hot showers, making it a comfortable base for exploring the High Peaks Wilderness.
  • The Fish Creek Pond - DEC campground offers well-maintained facilities, including a central shower house and easy access to the water for swimming and kayaking.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • The Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites provide access to stunning hiking trails leading to Mt. Marcy, perfect for those looking to tackle the highest peak in New York.
  • Campers at Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites can enjoy fishing and kayaking on the scenic pond, making it an ideal spot for water activities.
  • The Middle Pond Campsite is a great location for peaceful paddling and exploring the interconnected waterways of the Adirondacks.

Unique local attractions for tent campers

  • The Blueberry Lean-To Campground is situated near the Seward Range, offering breathtaking views and access to challenging hiking trails.
  • The MacIntyre Brook Falls Campground is conveniently located for those looking to hike to Algonquin Peak, one of the most popular trails in the area.
  • The Ward Brook Campsite provides a great base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, with plenty of water sources and scenic views nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rainbow Lake, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rainbow Lake, 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 Rainbow Lake, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Rainbow Lake, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.