Tent campsites near Ray Brook, New York sit at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 feet within the High Peaks Wilderness region of the Adirondack Park. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer daytime highs average 75-80°F with overnight lows in the 50s. The area's camping options include both water-accessible sites requiring boat transportation and remote backcountry locations that serve as gateways to multiple 4,000-foot peaks.
What to do
Paddle to private island sites: Saranac Lake Islands offers 87 water-access campsites spread across numerous islands. "There's something novelty about getting in a boat and paddling to your island for the week! We went off season so camping was free!" notes one camper. Island sites provide isolation not found at drive-in locations.
Hike from your tent site: At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, multiple trailheads begin directly from the camping area. A camper reports, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground." This eliminates driving to trailheads and maximizes hiking time.
Fish directly from camp: Many waterfront sites, particularly those on peninsulas, allow fishing without traveling. "We rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula on the middle saranac. One of the coolest experiences I've ever had in my life- surrounded by nature- water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!" shares a Saranac Lake Islands visitor.
What campers like
Affordable primitive options: Free primitive tent camping locations provide budget alternatives to established campgrounds. Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites offers five sites along its northeastern shore. "You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit. There is a hand launch for small boats/kayaks to access the pond near the entrance," explains one camper.
Complete isolation: Island camping creates natural boundaries between campsites. "Loved this campground. Pretty much had an entire island to ourselves and got to enjoy the beautiful saranac lake," shares a Saranac Lake Islands visitor. Another notes, "Our island had 4 other campsites on it and we barely saw or heard our neighbors."
Trail proximity for peak bagging: Feldspar Lean-to positions hikers for summit attempts without long approaches. "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. There's a good water flow for water that is safe to drink," notes a backcountry camper.
What you should know
Bear preparedness essential: High Peaks backcountry requires specific gear. A Lake Colden camper advises, "Make sure that you remain bear aware and are taking the appropriate safety measures. You're required to have a bear-proof container when camping in this area and you can find some for rent on your drive in."
No campfires in High Peaks: Fire regulations vary by location. "Fires are prohibited so you'll have to rely on a camp stove for cooking," explains a Lake Colden visitor. This rule applies to many backcountry tent sites in the High Peaks Wilderness.
Site selection timing matters: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "When camping in September, arriving at 5pm, we got the last campsite in the area," notes a Lake Colden camper. Another warns about Heart Lake, "If it is a saturday during peak season the lot fills as early as 6am!"
Tips for camping with families
Consider lean-to options: Shelters provide weather protection for family groups. "Lean to camping at its best! The lean to I had was right on the lake and on the edge of the campground. It's a bit of a trek to a bathroom but well worth it," shares a Heart Lake camper.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Ward Brook Campsite and other backcountry locations experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. A Heart Lake visitor advises, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours."
Assess hiking difficulty realistically: Many trails from camping areas present challenges. "A word of caution, I'm in relatively good shape and I found some of these hikes quite strenuous," notes a Lake Colden camper about trails to nearby peaks.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Ray Brook focuses on tent sites with few developed RV facilities. Jones Pond has one site (#1) that "is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV."
Access road conditions: MacIntyre Brook Falls campground and other locations have challenging approach roads. A visitor to Heart Lake warns, "Beware of the roads coming in. 40MPH is too fast for these torn up roads."
Boondocking preparation: RVs at primitive sites must be fully self-contained. "The campsites are perfect for a short stay with a tent or suv camper. The two track access road is rough and all dirt," reports a Jones Pond visitor regarding site accessibility.
