Tent campsites near Rainbow Lake, New York range from primitive backcountry sites to established campgrounds with amenities. This section of the northern Adirondacks sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-80°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 50-55°F. Campers should prepare for significant temperature fluctuations during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Canoe exploration: Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground offers exceptional paddling opportunities. Rent canoes to reach island campsites for extended wilderness experiences. One visitor noted, "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."
Hiking nearby peaks: From Feldspar Lean-to, access trails to Mount Marcy and surrounding high peaks. A camper reported, "This campsite is a great spot to stop for the night on the way to Mt. Marcy. There's a good water flow for water that is safe to drink."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Middle Pond Campsite provide opportunities to spot loons, beavers, and deer. According to a reviewer, "Beautiful location but this campsite is popular during the summer months. Off season is generally when you will find this campsite available."
Water activities: Swimming and fishing are popular at Jones Pond, where five primitive sites offer direct water access. Site #4 is described as "very large and could be occupied by a large group and multiple vehicles. It is accessible by car/suv/truck... near the water and has a fire ring and access to the water."
What campers like
Island isolation: Campers at Saranac Lake Islands appreciate the unique separation from other campers. One reviewer mentioned, "Huge sites, a lot of privacy (nearest campsite in most cases is not even visible)," while another stated, "I camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row... It's such a gorgeous place! The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated."
Convenient hiking bases: The proximity to trail networks makes Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake popular among hikers. A camper noted, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground." Another mentioned it's "a bit of a trek to a bathroom but well worth it. You can sit and chill by the lake, hike a mountain or hike around the lake."
Water proximity: Waterfront sites are highly valued. At Jones Pond, site #5 was described as "absolutely beautiful and right on the water." Another camper at Flowed Lands shared, "I loved un-zipping my tent and seeing the lake first thing in the morning."
Clean facilities: At established campgrounds like Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. A reviewer stated, "The bathrooms are really nice and warm, especially during the cold off season," while another mentioned, "I was absolutely impressed with the restrooms, dishwashing station, and beach area."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Many sites operate differently. Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake requires reservations for peak season, while Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites operates on "first come basis and are free to use. You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit."
Access challenges: Road conditions vary dramatically. For Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, visitors warn, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires." At Jones Pond, "The two track access road is rough and all dirt."
Seasonal considerations: Crowds increase dramatically on summer weekends. A Jones Pond camper reported, "It was over the July 4th week, so very busy and found people would just walk through your campsite."
Bear safety: Bear canisters are required in most areas. A Feldspar Lean-to visitor confirmed, "There's a good water flow for water that is safe to drink (suggest bringing iodine just in case)," while a Flowed Lands camper advised, "Use bear bins- and clean up your camp. You'll save the Bears lives and you'll be happier!"
Tips for camping with families
Boat access for kids: Saranac Lake Islands offers memorable family experiences. One parent shared, "The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place!"
Shorter hikes: For families with young children, consider sites with nearby short trails. At MacIntyre Brook Falls campground, a camper noted it's "Great campsite going up toward Algonquin peak. Just a bit before the MacIntyre Brook Falls. Easy to collect water at the falls."
Pet considerations: If camping with dogs, check restrictions. A Jones Pond camper shared their experience: "me and my German Shepherd were walking around the trails and we found site five which was absolutely beautiful and right on the water."
Weekday camping: For quieter family experiences, avoid weekends. A visitor to Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake recommended: "We had a very pleasant stay here and personally found the weekdays to be best for 'camp days' given there were few people—weekends are PACKED."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most primitive sites near Rainbow Lake aren't suitable for larger rigs. At Jones Pond, reviewers noted "Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV."
Water and waste management: No hookups are available at primitive sites. A camper at Blueberry lean-to campground mentioned, "Very close to the trail to Seward, Donaldson and Emmons. Lean-to, privy, fire pit, table, and water around," indicating minimal facilities.
Road clearance: For smaller RVs attempting to reach Jones Pond sites, four-wheel drive is essential. A camper confirmed, "I went back to site for packed up a bunch of stuff into the truck and left the truck tent in there... I had walked the road a couple of times to see if I could get my truck down there, definitely need four-wheel-drive."
