Established Camping
Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve
Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve, near Old Forge, New York, is a fantastic spot for those looking to unwind in nature. This campground is all about the peaceful vibes, with no motorized boats allowed on the lake, making it perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
The sites are well-shaded and private, giving you that cozy feeling of being tucked away in the woods. Campers rave about the beautiful swimming area and the clean facilities, which include showers and restrooms. One visitor noted, “The campground is on Nicks Lake and it is the only establishment on the lake,” highlighting the serene atmosphere that comes from being surrounded by nature.
If you’re up for some adventure, there are hiking trails nearby that offer stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Many campers enjoyed the chance to see deer and even bears from a safe distance. Plus, with the charming town of Old Forge just a short drive away, you can easily grab supplies or enjoy some local dining after a day of outdoor fun.
Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or cabin, Nicks Lake provides a great mix of relaxation and recreation. As one happy camper put it, “We will 100% be coming back.” So pack your gear and get ready for a memorable stay in the heart of the Adirondacks!
Description
State Park
Located in the Black River Wild Forest, this campground has 112 campsites, picnic area, a large beach with lifeguards and more than 5 miles of hiking trails. The park abuts a 205-acre shallow lake closed to motor boats, which makes this serene location great for canoeing, kayaking, or swimming. And don't forget that fish pole, because the fishing is great too. If paddling around at dusk trolling for that lunker bass or brown trout, listening to the sound of the loons, and watching the sun set sounds a little too relaxing for you then how about a modern ADA Accessible playground for the little ones, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball and more than 3 miles of paved roads for the biker or jogger. Whatever you choose to do with your time here, take time out to observe the abundant wildlife. Whitetail deer are everywhere and friendly. Just minutes away you can enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of McCauley Mountain to view Fulton Chain of lakes or drive into Old Forge and visit the multitude of shops and fine restaurants along Main Street. And once you visit Old Forge, you will have to spend at least one day at the Enchanted Forest / Water Safari. Whether your day is filled with one of the many activities available here or you chose to just sit back and enjoy the campfire, you can always start or end your day with a hot shower in one of our brand-new state of the art ADA Accessible restrooms. Amenities 112 tent and trailer sites, picnic pavilion rental, picnic area with tables and fireplaces, flush toilets, hot showers, ball field, trailer dump station, recycling center, mobility impaired accessibility, sand beach, swimming area, bathhouse, playground, nature trail with 14 educational stations, hiking trails, fishing, bicycling, volleyball, basketball, and softball. Featured Activities Boating two colorful kayaks in the water No motor boats allowed. Rowboats and canoes allowed. Fishing Fish in the area include: brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, bass, white sucker, yellow perch, brown bullhead, common sunfish, golden shiner, blacknose dace, creek chub, and common shiner. Hiking The Nicks Lake Trailhead can be accessed within the campground. The Nicks Lake Trail provides access to the 122,000+ acre Black River Wild Forest and it's extensive trail system. Swimming Designated swimming areas are available at some DEC facilities. Based on staffing, some of these facilities may have limited swimming hours/days. For the safety of our customers, swimming will only be permitted when a lifeguard is on duty. Beach hours will be posted at facilities with swimming. To inquire, please contact the campground directly.
Location
Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve is located in New York
Directions
278 Bisby Road, Old Forge, NY 13420 From NYS Thruway, Exit 31 at Utica, Route 12 North to Alder Creek, Rte. 28 to Old Forge. Turn right at the Post Office, and follow the Nicks Lake Campground signs 1.5 miles to the campground entrance. From Watertown take Rte. 12 South to Alder Creek, follow above directions. From Blue Mountain Lake take Rte. 28 to Old Forge, turn left at the Post Office and follow the Nicks Lake Campground signs.
Address
278 Bisby Road
Old Forge, NY 13420
Coordinates
43.69357999 N
74.9766924 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonGood
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly