Camping spots near Woodgate, New York are situated within the southwestern edge of the Adirondack Park, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,300 feet and summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during peak camping months. The region experiences high humidity in July and August with evening temperatures dropping to 50-60°F. Many campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with limited services during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Tubing adventures: $15 per person for shuttle service at West Canada Creek Campground. The campground provides drop-off points just down the road for floats. "The West Canada Creek wraps around the entire property and provides such a tranquil backdrop," notes Sean M.
Hiking the gorge: 3-mile loop trail at Whetstone Gulf State Park offers moderate difficulty with elevation gain. "Mid level rigor but the view of the gorge from the top are truly breathtaking," reports Matt N., who adds that the "super clean facility with spacious sites" makes it ideal for day trips.
Paddling on quiet waters: Limekiln Lake Campground offers kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the crystal-clear lake. "The lake is beautiful and quiet, very very clean water you can see the bottom," explains Murat H., who appreciated the self-service rental system where "you pay at the entrance and go to the beach and grab your kayak."
Dark sky viewing: North Lake Reservoir offers exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "We loved brining the kids here without worrying about loud crazy campers up until all hours of the night," shares a camper who recommends walking down to the boat launch at night to view the Milky Way.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Bear sightings are common at Old Forge Camping Resort, though proper precautions are essential. "We had one or two [bears] in and around our camp site almost every nite. Heed the warnings and lock car doors and don't leave coolers or grills out," advises Becky M., highlighting the importance of following campground rules.
Swimming options: Delta Lake State Park features a clean, lifeguarded beach area during summer months. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," explains Brian O., who noted the lake is a "flooded area forming a reservoir stocked with game fish."
Secluded waterfront sites: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers walk-in sites directly on the lake shore. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," reports J.B., who notes campers should "take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Cell service limitations: Most remote camping areas have limited or no cell coverage, especially at North Lake. "Important note there is limited to no cell service here," warns Tate T., who nonetheless rated the experience highly with pristine wilderness compensation for connectivity challenges.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season campgrounds fill 6-12 months in advance, especially for themed weekends. "Halloween weekend is truly a must see, with wagon rides and trick-or-treating! This weekend like many others fill up nearly a year in advance," explains Sean M. about West Canada Creek's popular events.
Primitive sites require preparation: Nicks Lake Campground offers varying levels of campsite development. "Some sites are right on the water. Some sites not very flat," notes Benjamin C., who recommends asking "the rangers about getting one that matches your expectations/needs."
Weather considerations: Late season camping brings color but precipitation. "Nice color changes, but it does rain a lot here. (Almost every day and night)" reports one camper who stayed at Nicks Lake for six nights in late September.
Road access challenges: North Lake requires navigating unpaved roads. "You must get off Rte 28, heading toward the old Buffalo Head restaurant and passed there, keep going another 30-40 minutes along a dirt/gravel road until you reach N Lake Rd," explains a visitor describing the journey to this remote location.
Tips for camping with families
Insect protection essential: Black flies and mosquitoes can be intense, particularly in May through early July. "We were here in June and there was an invasion of biting flies. There were so many that you couldn't stand still for 5 seconds," reports Joel M., who recommends high-quality repellent with high DEET percentage for both skin and clothing.
Campground activities: Kayuta Lake Campground and Marina offers multiple child-friendly amenities. "They have a nice pool. The playground is old and outdated, but my kids didn't seem to mind," shares Erin M., who adds that their laser tag was "a fabulous amenity. We will come back for that alone because my son had so much fun."
Safer swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying levels of supervision. "It has a pretty little pond for swimming and paddle boats a short hiking trail around the pond and the staff were all very friendly," notes one camper about the family-friendly facilities at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Site selection for family needs: Loop selection affects camping experience significantly. "The bathrooms and grounds are well maintained and accessible from wherever you are in the park. There are hiking, biking and running trails galore," reports Carlyne F., noting that some loops are quieter than others for families needing earlier bedtimes.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Some campgrounds have insufficient electrical capacity for all sites. "We used a surge protector when plugging in to electric. It wasn't long before our power kept kicking off," explains LL J., who was informed that "they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have" at Singing Waters Campground.
Big rig accessibility varies: Road width and turning radius create challenges at some campgrounds. "Sites are close together and beware of the bear," notes Paully B. about Old Forge Camping Resort, adding that "with the connection of the stay and play with enchanted forrest water safari it makes for a great time" despite the tight quarters.
Seasonal site options: Several campgrounds offer seasonal options for frequent visitors. "The guests at the seasonal sites are invested in this campground, volunteering for the themed weekends," notes Sean M., explaining how these longer-term campers contribute to the community atmosphere at West Canada Creek Campground.
Hookup variations: Not all sites offer the same level of services. "There are camper sites with full hookup, some with just water and electric, and a few electric only," reports a visitor, emphasizing the importance of confirming site amenities when booking.
