The Adirondack Park region around Tupper Lake, New York sits at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet, with surrounding peaks reaching over 3,000 feet. Tent camping options in this area typically remain open from mid-May through early October, with night temperatures that can drop into the 40s even during summer months. The region contains numerous ponds and lakes connected by a network of streams, creating abundant waterfront camping opportunities.
What to do
Paddle the Saranac Chain of Lakes: Many tent campers at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground combine camping with paddling adventures. According to one camper, "I camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row. 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!" Another mentioned, "Loved this campground. Pretty much had an entire island to ourselves and got to enjoy the beautiful saranac lake."
Hike to mountaintop views: The High Peaks Wilderness trails near Feldspar Lean-to provide challenging day hikes. A camper noted, "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." The site provides access to summit trails with significant elevation gain and rocky terrain requiring proper footwear.
Swimming in spring-fed waters: Several campsites provide direct lake access for swimming during summer months. One visitor to Jones Pond wrote, "You can walk down to the water, which is only a small ledge and enough space to put a chair, me and my German Shepherd were walking around the trails and we found site five which was absolutely beautiful and right on the water, I mean right on the water."
What campers like
Island privacy: Many visitors praise the seclusion at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake and other lakeside locations. As one camper reported, "Our site was spacious and relatively private, flat, and shaded. The campground hosts came and checked on us once. The whole campground was quiet and beautifyl to stroll around and see the lake and nearby mountains."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The remote setting offers chances to see native Adirondack wildlife. At Lake Colden, one camper shared an important reminder: "First and foremost, I had a black bear encounter at this location. 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."
Water access at campsites: Many tent camping sites around Tupper Lake feature direct water frontage. According to a reviewer at Jones Pond, "The views from site #4 of the pond were beautiful. We were the only campers during our stay on a weekday." Another camper described their peninsula site: "we rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula (not one of the very sought after islands but just as neat) on the middle saranac."
What you should know
Bear-resistant containers required: Throughout the Adirondacks, proper food storage is mandatory. A camper at Marcy Dam Backcountry Campsites advised, "But don't expect facilities - this is backcountry camping. No toilets or piped water. No firepits, and you cannot start fires here - bring your stove. Bring your own bear canister."
Rough access roads: Many primitive campsites have challenging access routes. One Jones Pond visitor cautioned, "The two track access road is rough and all dirt." Similarly, at Heart Lake, a reviewer warned, "From what others have said...yes, beware of the roads coming in. 40MPH is too fast for these torn up roads."
No-fire zones: In certain wilderness areas, campfires are prohibited. At Lake Colden, a camper explained, "Fires are prohibited so you'll have to rely on a camp stove for cooking, and you'll need to be wary of weather that has a habit of changing quickly."
First-come availability: Most primitive tent sites operate without reservations. At Jones Pond, a reviewer noted, "The sites are on a first come basis and are free to use. You can stay a maximum of three nights without a permit." For Heart Lake during peak season, another camper advised, "If it is a saturday during peak season the lot fills as early as 6am!"
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options for easier setup: Several areas offer lean-to structures that simplify camping with children. A visitor to Ward Brook Campsite shared, "Great campsite with a nice lean-to. Fire pit, picnic table, and a privy. A bit further you will find some tent spots too. Plenty of water around."
Swimming-friendly sites: Look for gradual water entry points for safer swimming with children. One parent camping at Saranac Lake Islands recalled, "Brought our dog and he had a blast exploring the island at his own whim. We jumped from the rocks and swam and played games."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant in the Adirondacks, even in summer. A Heart Lake visitor advised, "Despite a rainy week we made the most of the easily accessible mountains and the onsite convenience shop was helpful!" Another camper at Saranac Lake Islands warned, "Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Tupper Lake have size restrictions for vehicles. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, a visitor 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."
Dispersed options for smaller rigs: Smaller RVs and vans can access certain primitive sites. A Jones Pond camper explained, "The campsites are perfect for a short stay with a tent or suv camper. The two track access road is rough and all dirt."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring and fall bring challenging road conditions. A visitor to Wilderness Campground warned, "Snowpack remains on these trails till at least the end of May and flurries begin as early as October so be prepared for cold and weather if you plan to go during this time."
