Dispersed camping and established sites around Thurman, New York offer a variety of wilderness experiences within the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The area features elevation ranges from 700 to 2,500 feet and receives approximately 40-50 inches of precipitation annually. Most camping locations maintain natural forest settings with minimal development, requiring visitors to be self-sufficient with supplies and proper waste management practices.
What to do
Waterfront swimming access: Long Island Group on Lake George provides excellent swimming opportunities directly from campsites. "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip," notes Anastasiia T. about her Long Island camping experience.
High peaks hiking: Use the Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake as a base for exploring multiple mountain trails. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," explains Hannah O., who appreciated that "the whole campground was quiet and beautiful to stroll around and see the lake and nearby mountains."
Kayaking and canoeing: Cedar River Entrance Camping offers convenient water access. "There is a small landing to launch kayaks or canoes. A dam with some additional sites on the other side," reports Matthew D. who gave Cedar River Campground five stars and noted "several trails nearby."
Island exploration: Rent a boat to discover the unique camping experience of the Lake George islands. "When camping on Lake George, staying on an island to camp is a must-do. We rented kayaks and actually reserved a spot on our own private island," shares Erin H., who enjoyed hearing "only the tide crashing next to you all night."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Cod Pond offers secluded sites with water features. "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss," explains Josie W. about the Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, adding "there was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Stony Creek Family Campground provides a welcoming environment. "It's a nice family ran campground. We love it here and plan to come back!" states Elizabeth P. about her Stony Creek experience.
Island seclusion: The Narrow Island Group offers unique isolation. "I have stayed on Nobles Island & Floating Battery Island in the Narrows of Lake George. You must have a power boat ride out there or be up for a long paddle. TAKE EVERYTHING you need including extra ice. Once there, settle in & relax, you aren't going anywhere," advises Rebecca E.
Wilderness immersion: The remote tent campsites near Thurman provide true backcountry experiences. "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks," explains Tony F. about Murphy Lake Leanto, noting "once at the large Leanto, you will find a fire pit and ample room for many tents if needed."
What you should know
Boat access requirement: Most Lake George island campsites require watercraft. "Definitely need a decent sized boat with a gas outboard to get there, but wow. What an experience," shares Justin B. about Glen Island Group, adding "definitely no amenities other than an outhouse but spectacular views and pristine waters."
Vehicle restrictions: Some dispersed sites have limited vehicle access. "The site has its own private road. A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV," warns Taylor A. about Cod Pond.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for animal interactions at tent campsites near Thurman. "And the raccoon situation...was bad. We were literally bombarded with a group of raccoons each night," reports Ryan about Long Island Group.
Weather preparedness: Lake sites experience variable conditions. "Check the weather before your stay - you may be able to swap for a site on the opposite side of the island if you get an idea of where the winds will be coming from," suggests Rebecca E. for Narrow Island camping.
Tips for camping with families
Amenity access: Heart Lake offers facilities that children appreciate. "I was absolutely impressed with the restrooms, dishwashing station, and beach area," reports Tigan W. about Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, who found it the "perfect distance from Lake Placid proper for an enforced retreat with the option to reconnect."
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds for consistent facilities. "Picnic table, fire ring and several outhouses nearby. Beautiful surroundings," notes Matthew D. about Cedar River Campground, mentioning "several trails nearby" suitable for family exploration.
Timing considerations: Weekdays provide quieter camping experiences. "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," advises Alex & Lauren K. about Heart Lake.
Water activities: Lake George provides family-friendly recreation. "We ate fresh fish everyday. Great kayaking & hiking," shares Rebecca E. about Narrow Island Group, making it ideal for active families.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Road conditions can be difficult for larger vehicles. "Beware of the roads coming in. 40MPH is too fast for these torn up roads," warns Laura Nicole A. about the approach to Heart Lake campground, where tent sites are more numerous than RV accommodations.
Size limitations: Most primitive sites near Thurman cannot accommodate larger rigs. "A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV," Taylor A. notes about Cod Pond, indicating the tight access at many tent campsites near Thurman.
Utility considerations: Prepare for limited or no hookups at most sites. "No amenities other than an outhouse," Justin B. reports about Glen Island, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency even at established campgrounds.
