Best Waterfront Campsites in the Adirondacks

Post summary: 9 best waterfront campsites in the Adirondacks and useful tips to know.

Looking for the perfect spot to wake up by the water?

From the peaceful shores of Lake George to the wild charm of Saranac Lake, there are plenty of amazing waterfront campsites tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York.

Whether you’re after some peaceful solo time or planning a fun group trip, you’ll find just the right spot.

Check out this guide to find the best waterfront campsites with incredible views of the Adirondacks.

Pack your gear, set up your tent, and get ready for your Adirondack Mountains camping trip!

Top Waterfront Campgrounds in the Adirondacks

So you’re ready to camp by the water.

Luckily, the Adirondacks have some of the most beautiful campgrounds on pristine mountain lakes. Along with amazing views and picturesque sunsets, these spots are also super convenient and have great amenities.

In this post, I listed the most popular waterfront campgrounds in the Adirondacks, as well as my personal favorites and a few hidden gems.

Whether you’re into tent camping by the lake, boating to backcountry campsites, or just looking for the prettiest place to park your RV, here are some of the top lakeside campgrounds to stay at while you explore this beautiful area of Upstate New York.

Tip: Prefer to have a roof over your head? Check out these cozy cabin rentals in the Adirondacks.

Note: Most campgrounds on this list are managed by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Walk-in’s aren’t allowed, so you need to make a reservation ahead of time. Same-day reservations are only allowed until 5 pm on the day of arrival. You can make your reservation online or by calling Reserve America at 1-800-456-2267.

Little Wolf Beach Campground on Tupper Lake

Nestled on the shores of Little Wolf Pond and near the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory, Little Wolf Beach Campground is a gem in the heart of the Adirondacks. With activities like volleyball, basketball, and various events, it’s perfect for a fun getaway.

With 50 drive-up campsites, you’ll have access to bathrooms, showers, and hookups for electricity, water, and sewage.

Dive into the sectioned swimming area, kayak in the crystal-clear waters, or try your luck fishing. Follow the nearby hiking trails through the forest and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.

And if you just want to relax, there are plenty of beautiful, quiet spots to unwind and soak in the breathtaking sunsets.

Indian Lake Islands Campground

Camping meets boating at Indian Lake Islands Campground in the Adirondacks.

Located on the southern shore of Indian Lake in the Central Adirondacks, this waterfront campground is a local favorite – for good reason!

Indian Lake Islands Campground has 55 campsites peppered along the lakeshore and on the islands in the middle of Indian Lake. Each site offers a unique and secluded wilderness experience.

The only caveat is that you need a boat to reach these waterfront campsites, which adds to the charm and adventure of camping on the islands.

Note: Make sure to bring your own boat or arrange ahead of time for a boat/kayak rental at Indian Lake Marina on Lake Shore Drive to get to your campsite. There are also boat launches on Lewey Lake and Indian Lake.

Lake Eaton Campground

Lake Eaton Campground is a peaceful waterfront campground in Long Lake, NY. This Adirondack campground is perfect if you want something more quiet and secluded.

The park has 135 tent and trailer sites, a picnic area with tables and fire pits, flush toilets, hot showers, a recycling center, as well as a trailer dump station. There are a number of secluded campsites, plus canoe, rowboat, and kayak rentals on site.

If you love to fish, Lake Eaton is stocked with a variety of fish, including lake trout, brook trout, perch, sunfish, smallmouth bass, and rainbow salmon.

Looking for things to do nearby? The Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks, Water Safari Water Theme Park, The Wild Center, and the Adirondack Museum at Blue Mountain Lake are all located close by. You can also book seaplane rides in the historic town of Long Lake.

There are also several hiking trails right near the campground. The Lake Eaton Trailhead is right within the campground and leads to three designated trails.

Note: This campground has sections that are currently closed for restoration. Visit the Campsite Restoration Project page for more information.

Rogers Rock Campground on Lake George

Rogers Rock Campground is located on the northern end of Lake George in the town of Hague.

This campground is popular with families and groups, so it’s definitely more lively than other campgrounds on this list. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it if you want a super quiet experience, but the location and waterfront views of Lake George are hard to beat.

One of the highlights of Rogers Rock is its boat launch. If you have a boat, this is the perfect place to explore the lake. Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are also popular here. You can spend your time paddling on the clear waters or trying to catch a variety of fish like bass, trout, and pike.

While you’re there, Rogers Rock Trail hike is a must-do. It’s a challenging hike with rewarding views of the lake and beyond.

The campground is well-equipped with amenities, such as clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. There’s also a camp store in case you need to pick up any essentials or firewood.

If you feel like exploring, the towns of Hague and Ticonderoga are just a short drive away with local restaurants and shopping. Plus, you’re not far from other Lake George attractions if you’re up for a day trip.

You’ll love: 14 Best Things to Do in Lake George, NY | Activities & Attractions

 

Lewey Lake Campground

If you’re looking for a quiet, more off-the-beaten-path location in the Adirondacks, head straight for Lewey Lake Campground in the Central Adirondacks. This area is full of dreamy views, waterfalls, museums, and waterfront campsites.

Lewey Lake Campground is right on Lewey Lake and has a bunch of sites right next to the water.

There’s so much to do here, including a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing, docks for fishing, and 24-hour canoe or kayak rentals on-site for just $20.

Lewey Lake is also just a short drive from Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake, for fantastic hiking and boating opportunities.

This campground has an extended camping season and is now open through October 9, which is perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and snag last-minute waterfront sites.

Heart Lake Campground near Lake Placid

The Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake is located at the Adirondack Loj in the High Peaks Region of the Adirondacks. This is the best waterfront campground near Lake Placid, and one of my personal favorites.

There’s all kinds of camping here, including basic tent sites, traditional Adirondack lean-tos (no tent required!) and a few canvas cabins with bunk beds, if you prefer glamping.

The campground is right on the shore of Heart Lake with a designated swimming area and canoe/kayak rentals for about $10 per hour.

Heart Lake Campground is best for hiking because it’s at the base of Mt. Jo, which is on my list of best short hikes in the Adirondacks with epic views. It’s also next to several other popular Adirondack High Peaks, including Wright Peak, Big Slide Mountain, Mt Colden, and Mount Marcy. 

As you can imagine, a campground near some of the best hikes near Lake Placid fills up fast. I recommend booking as early as possible, especially if you want a waterfront campsite!

Did you know it’s against regulations to pitch a tent inside an Adirondack lean-to? Leave the tent at home if you book a lean-to or pitch your tent next to the lean-to at your campsite.

Saranac Lake Islands Campground

If you want a camping experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, you’ll love Saranac Lake Islands Campground (and maybe even want to stay forever). Similar to Indian Lake Islands, Saranac Lake Islands Campground is only accessible by boat. So you’ll need a canoe, kayak, or motorboat to reach any of the 87 campsites scattered across the middle and lower Saranac Lake islands.

The interconnected Saranac Lake boating system links to four lakes, making it easy to explore the entire area by water.

Each waterfront campsite is designed to provide a rustic, private retreat where you can truly unwind. Amenities like showers, picnic areas, shelters, and outhouses make your stay a little more comfy.

Hikes nearby include Ampersand Mountain and the rest of the Saranac 6.

The nearby Tri-Lake Area villages of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake are also just a short trip away. These charming towns have everything you might need, from grocery stores and gear shops to restaurants and cafes.

Moffitt Beach Campground on Sacandaga Lake

Moffitt Beach Campground is in the southern Adirondack Mountains, near the town of Speculator, NY. This is one of the prettiest campgrounds in the Adirondacks and sits along Sacandaga Lake.

There are over 200 campsites to choose from and a sandy beach for swimming.

There are a lot of sites to choose from that are on – or very close to – the water and you can usually find availability, even in peak season. However, it’s essential that you book several months in advance if you want a prime waterfront campsite.

Late summer and fall are the perfect times to visit, and luckily, Moffitt Beach is one of the few campsites in the Adirondacks with an extended camping season. The campground is now open through early October.

Fish Creek Pond Campground near Saranac Lake

Fish Creek Pond Campground near Saranac Lake is one of the best (and most popular) lakeside Adirondack campgrounds.

Waterfront campsites in the Adirondacks typically book up fast, but Fish Creek Pond Campground is pretty big, which gives you a better chance of snagging a last-minute site, even in peak season.

There are over 300 campsites here, with space to pitch a tent or park an RV.

The campground amenities include a picnic area, flush toilets, hot showers, beach, swimming pool, a playground, and on-site kayak/canoe rentals. There are also hiking trails right at the campground, such as the Otter Hollow Loop and Floodwood Loop.

This campground is particularly good for children and families. There are a lot of activities for kids here, like hikes, crafts, games, and live entertainment.

Fish Creek Pond Campground is between Square Pond and Fish Creek Pond with a natural sand shoreline. It also links up with Rollins Pond State Campground, so there’s even more to explore if you’re up for it.

Tips for Camping in the Adirondacks

When camping in the wilderness, it’s essential to be prepared. I’ve listed a few of the essential tips that will help you on your trip.

• Book ahead: Waterfront campgrounds and lakeside campsites in the Adirondacks are very popular. While you can generally find last-minute reservations at large campgrounds, it’s essential to book well in advance if you want a prime waterfront site
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• Leave No Trace: Practice the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment and preserve the beauty of the Adirondacks for future generations.
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• Bug Repellent: Insects such as mosquitoes and deer flies can be relentless, so don’t forget to come prepared with DEET-free bug repellent.
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• Stay Informed About Storms: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden storms, especially during the summer.
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• Protect Against Black Flies: Wear long sleeves, pants, and hats to protect yourself from black flies, especially during their peak season from late spring to early summer. The bites are super itchy and can feel like a bee sting.
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• Only use locally sourced firewood: Moving firewood is not allowed in many areas to protect forests to help prevent the spread of invasive pests. Most sites sell firewood, so you should be good to go.
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• Proper Waste Disposal: Make sure that you dispose of waste properly by using the designated trash disposal options at your campsite or packing out your garbage. Don’t leave food out at your campsites because it can attract bears.
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• Respect Wildlife: Admire the wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding or approaching animals.
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• Plan for Emergencies: Get yourself up to date with the location of any nearby emergency services and have a plan for emergencies. Make sure your first aid kit is stocked.
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• Enjoy the Views: Take time to relax and savor the stunning waterfront views that make Adirondack camping truly special. Are those Instagram captions ready?

FAQs About Camping on the Water in the Adirondacks

This should have covered everything you need to know about waterfront camping in the Adirondacks. But here are some answers to most frequently asked questions to make sure you’re ultra prepared!

Are There Designated Swimming Areas at Lakeside Campgrounds in the Adirondacks?

Yes, many campsites have designated swimming areas. Always check campground regulations and signs for safety guidelines and any restrictions before you hop in.

Can I Use My Own Watercraft on Adirondack Lakes?

Yes, all of these Adirondack campsites allow non-motorized watercraft like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Motorized boats are allowed on larger lakes like Saranac Lake, Sacandaga Lake, Lake George, and Indian Lake. There may be restrictions or permits required, so check campground rules beforehand.

Are Campfires Allowed at Waterfront Campsites?

Yes, campfires are typically allowed at Adirondack waterfront campsites, but regulations may vary. Always use designated fire pits, follow safety guidelines, and adhere to any fire bans in effect.

How Can I Protect Myself from Insects While Camping Near Water in the Adirondacks?

Apply insect repellent, and wear long sleeves, and pants to deter mosquitoes and black flies. Consider using a screened shelter or tent, and avoid camping near stagnant water sources where bugs thrive.

Are There Any Fishing Regulations I Should Be Aware of When Camping Near Adirondack Waterways?

Yes, fishing regulations apply in Adirondack water bodies. Get a fishing license and review local regulations for catch limits, size restrictions, and any special rules for specific species or locations.

When Is the Best Time to Go Camping in the Adirondacks?

Summer is hands down the best time to go camping in the Adirondacks. The next best time is during the fall. Not only is the fall foliage stunning for nature photography, but the weather is also nice and cool — meaning you’ll deal with fewer bugs and people.

Wrapping Up the Best Waterfront Campsites in the Adirondacks

So, there you have it!

From the gorgeous lakeshores to the lush forests, the Adirondacks truly are one of the best places to camp out under the stars. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it.

And don’t even get me started on the fall foliage—it’s like stepping into a painting. So pack your gear, hit the trails, and soak in the stunning views.

Did you enjoy this guide to the best waterfront campsites in the Adirondacks? Let me know in the comments!

More Upstate New York Travel Guides:

Adirondack hiking: Short Hikes With Incredible Views in the Adirondacks

Upstate New York hikes: 20 Bucket List Hikes in Upstate New York for Every Skill Level

Lake Placid hikes: 10+ Amazing Hikes Near Lake Placid in the Adirondacks

Lake Placid: Top Things to Do in Lake Placid NY in the Summer

NY Wineries: 15+ Hudson Valley Wineries and Vineyards You Need to Visit in NY