Primitive camping sites around South Colton offer varied landscapes from waterfront to wooded terrain. The Adirondack region typically experiences cool nights even during summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 40s after sunset during spring and fall. Campers should note that water levels at reservoirs like Carry Falls can fluctuate dramatically based on hydroelectric operations, affecting boat launches and swimming areas.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access: At Higley Flow State Park Campground, the water level changes create interesting paddling conditions. "Since this river has many dams and is used for hydro power the water level can go up and down 2-3 feet from one day to the next. It didnt affect our kayaking fun, swimming or fishing and was intriguing," reports Sandy T.
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours offer prime opportunities for bird watching, particularly loons on Cranberry Lake. One camper at Cranberry Lake Campground shared: "I came across the largest and most beautiful sounding loon early in the morning...perfect before we had to pack it up and leave."
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access trails at some campgrounds during off-season. "I also cross country ski in the winter and the trails are fabulous!" notes Jennifer I. about Higley Flow State Park, making this area a year-round destination when many other facilities close.
What campers like
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites with natural barriers. At Rollins Pond Campground, a visitor noted, "all of the neighbors are so quiet it was like being alone when sitting by the fire."
Waterfront access: Direct water access from individual sites ranks highly among visitor preferences. A camper at Fish Creek Pond Campground shared, "This is a gorgeous campground on the banks of Fish Creek Pond and Square pond close to Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake. Very site has water access, and the water is super shallow all along the shoreline."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses receive frequent positive mentions. One visitor to Fish Creek noted, "There were clean bath houses everywhere and one shower building on the west side of Square Pond. I was surprised by the number of bathrooms, you'll never be far from one while camping here."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains minimal throughout the region, requiring advance planning. A visitor at Meacham Lake Campground confirmed, "There is no cell or internet there."
Site-specific conditions: Individual sites can vary dramatically even within the same campground. At Meacham Lake, a camper warned, "We camped on site 188 for 3 nights and really enjoyed having our own private 'beach,' however, it was extremely boggy! The campground had put down sheets of plywood to help, but still the ground was so soggy that the plywood had eventually 'soaked away.'"
Reservation requirements: During peak season (July-August), waterfront campsites near South Colton book months in advance. For Rollins Pond, a visitor advised, "You have to go all the way through the fairly busy Fish Creek campground to get into Rollins Pond on a dead end road, so don't forget the groceries. Almost all the sites are lakefront."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children benefit from campgrounds with play areas. At Higley Flow State Park, a parent shared, "Whether it's playing in the water or in the playground this place is awesome to bring your children. The showers and restrooms were kept very clean and The Pavilions were wonderful places to have a family picnic."
Shallow swimming areas: For families with small children, certain campgrounds offer safer water entry. A visitor at Birch's Lakeside Campground and Marina noted, "Exceeded expectations! This place has it all, especially being as remote as it is. There were kids on site, boat rentals and extremely nice seasonal campers."
Bike-friendly roads: Several campgrounds feature roads suitable for children learning to ride. At Fish Creek Pond, a visitor recommended, "Take a bike! This is a gorgeous campground on the banks of Fish Creek Pond and Square pond close to Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites near South Colton require additional leveling for RVs. At Higley Flow, a camper noted the "sites are large and wooded, most all paved (not always very level!)."
Limited hookup availability: RV campers should verify specific amenities before booking. A camper at Cranberry Lake remarked, "About 35 spots all non electric, many on the water of the oswegatchie river. There is shower and rest rooms."
Boat access considerations: RVers with watercraft should research launch conditions. At Higley Flow, a visitor explained, "It's convenient that the park supplys trash containers by the roadside of your site for recyclables and trash and also pick it up often. Since this river has many dams and is used for hydro power the water level can go up and down 2-3 feet from one day to the next."
