Upper Jay sits in the Adirondack High Peaks region at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with the AuSable River flowing through its heart. The area experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing and summer days typically reaching the 70s and 80s. Many camping options in the area remain open year-round, unlike typical Adirondack facilities that close after leaf-peeping season.
What to do
Hiking nearby mountains: The area surrounding Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake offers exceptional trail access. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," shares Hannah O. For those seeking less challenging options, "you can sit and chill by the lake, hike a mountain or hike around the lake," according to cj J.
Water activities on local ponds: At Rollins Pond Campground, paddlers find motor-free waters perfect for exploration. "If you bring a canoe (or rent one) you can access a vast network of ponds and streams," notes Olaf D. The restriction on motorized boats creates a peaceful experience, as Mark B. confirms: "Great sites and access point to nice canoeing waters. Moter boats restricted and sites are very wooded."
Yurt camping Upper Jay, New York: Several campgrounds near Upper Jay offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent or cabin camping. These semi-permanent structures provide more comfort than tents while maintaining a connection to the surrounding forest. The Adirondack yurt camping experience typically includes raised platforms, canvas walls, and woodstoves for cooler nights.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: At Draper's Acres, the separation between different camping types enhances the experience. "Great campground with secluded sites most with woods behind each site, especially the tent area. The RV and tent camping is well separated," reports Natalie N. Sierra K. adds: "The sites are pretty secluded. They did have a few lean to sites also."
Swimming options: Button Bay State Park Campground features both lake access and a swimming pool. "The park has swimming pool with life guard," mentions M.A.D. P., while Clay A. notes the "beautiful sunset overlooking the lake." Many families appreciate having multiple swimming options depending on weather and water conditions.
Shoulder season value: Late fall and early spring camping near Upper Jay offers reduced crowds and seasonal beauty. "We tented here late in the season so it was very quiet," reports Sierra K. about Draper's Acres. The availability of year-round yurt camping in Upper Jay provides comfortable alternatives when temperatures drop too low for traditional tent camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, Max warns: "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires." This applies to many Adirondack campgrounds where unpaved roads may become rutted after rain.
Weather variability: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes, especially in spring and fall. "I would caution going prior to June unless you are prepared for varying weather. I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow," advises Alex G. about Rollins Pond.
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