Camping in Old Forge, NY, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
New York
—
Old Forge

96% (903 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Old Forge

Dog-friendly getaways

Top camping destinations

Noonmark summit for sunrise, Adirondack High Peaks

Adirondack State Park

1344 campgrounds

Rainbow Falls, the most recognizable waterfall in the park with a different take on composition.

Watkins Glen State Park

Green Mountain National Forest

1578 campgrounds

Available this weekend

99%

(966)

Tilden Hill Farm

16 sites · RVs, Tents155 acres · Vernon, NY

Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. Tent sites have a porta-john and homemade outdoor shower for your enjoyment! Our RV sites have full hookups: water, electric and also a dump station.Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 4 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all!We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"

Reflections Homestead

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cold Brook, NY

I am Karl and with my wife Danielle together we own 10 acres of peacefully settled forest on the edge of over 10,000 acres of State Forest land. It is on a seasonal road. I have no registered address, but a small sign marks my access road as Jacob Lane. This is a tribute to my friends. The Amish that helped me build our off-grid cabin. It is very quiet here. My closest neighbor about a half mile away and I kind of like it that way. There are seasonal roads here that allow four wheelers that behave themselves to buzz by from time to time. The forest rangers and DEC officers that patrol here keep a tight rein on the forest and its preservation. We have one guest cabin and several places a tent or RV can park. There are no hookups. Water is a precious commodity here. We capture rainwater and filter what we drink and cook with. Please bring some potable water. We do have spring water available but it's a drive. We are currently working on a well so this may not be a permanent condition. I first came here about 15 years ago. I would like to try and see if others would enjoy what we have made our lives. Be alone or follow me on my daily adventures. I do like to talk and although I don't lie, stretching the truth is an artform I have perfected so be prepared. There is a state-run beach and picnic area about 3 minute drive away on the Hinkley Reservoir. We are about 15 to 20 minutes away from the Herkimer Diamond Mines. You can bike, hike, nature watch or just enjoy the peacefulness of the tree you chose to sit against. Down and ready firewood is everywhere if you want to bend over and pick it up. You can possess firearms on the property, but you may not discharge one without prior approval unless it's to save your life or that of another. There are places not far away that you can legally shoot and enjoy yourself. There are traditional outhouses on the property and for those that know how cat holing is allowed. Ask if unsure. No dumping tanks or portable toilets anywhere and that includes the outhouses. The state of New York has facilities at campgrounds that do a proper job with that type of waste. If you stop by, I will see you. If not go find what you seek and enjoy what has been created for everyone to pursue. Happiness. Peace be with you. Karl and Danielle

Weaver Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Tupper Lake, NY

Enjoy a taste of the Adirondacks with all of the amenities of a town. These spacious wooded lots provide a picturesque landscape that can accommodate almost any camper! This property has been family owned for 3 generations with no plans of that changing. This location used to be home to what the family referred to lovingly as the "Green Camp". The area holds many childhood memories for the family who is hoping to extend that opportunity to all who choose to reserve it. This property is centrally located just a 5minute walk from Tupper Lake Public Beach which contains a full bathhouse. It is also a 5minute drive to the award willing Raquette River Brewery and the Adirondack Rail Trail. Tupper Lake is also home to the #1 Natural History Museum in the Country "The Wild Center". Tupper Lake is part of the tri-lake region in the Adirondacks including Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. Lake Placid being home to the 1932 and 1980 winter Olympics.

Camp Benjamin

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Boonville, NY

This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Happy Camper Bus & Camp Site

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Taberg, NY

Since 2020 The Happy Camper Bus has been creating memorable times for hundreds of guests at a prior location. Hi ! I'm Jessica and in 2023 I purchased this charming skoolie with the intent to add a few changes and eventually run my skoolie entirely off-grid. Guests can expect an affordable, peaceful, family oriented stay in my 37 ft International Bus/Skoolie. You'll find custom woodwork design inside with modern touches and full electric capabilities until I convert to solar.

12 top campgrounds near Old Forge

99%

(966)

Tilden Hill Farm

16 sites · RVs, Tents155 acres · Vernon, NY

Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. Tent sites have a porta-john and homemade outdoor shower for your enjoyment! Our RV sites have full hookups: water, electric and also a dump station.Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 4 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all!We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"

Reflections Homestead

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cold Brook, NY

I am Karl and with my wife Danielle together we own 10 acres of peacefully settled forest on the edge of over 10,000 acres of State Forest land. It is on a seasonal road. I have no registered address, but a small sign marks my access road as Jacob Lane. This is a tribute to my friends. The Amish that helped me build our off-grid cabin. It is very quiet here. My closest neighbor about a half mile away and I kind of like it that way. There are seasonal roads here that allow four wheelers that behave themselves to buzz by from time to time. The forest rangers and DEC officers that patrol here keep a tight rein on the forest and its preservation. We have one guest cabin and several places a tent or RV can park. There are no hookups. Water is a precious commodity here. We capture rainwater and filter what we drink and cook with. Please bring some potable water. We do have spring water available but it's a drive. We are currently working on a well so this may not be a permanent condition. I first came here about 15 years ago. I would like to try and see if others would enjoy what we have made our lives. Be alone or follow me on my daily adventures. I do like to talk and although I don't lie, stretching the truth is an artform I have perfected so be prepared. There is a state-run beach and picnic area about 3 minute drive away on the Hinkley Reservoir. We are about 15 to 20 minutes away from the Herkimer Diamond Mines. You can bike, hike, nature watch or just enjoy the peacefulness of the tree you chose to sit against. Down and ready firewood is everywhere if you want to bend over and pick it up. You can possess firearms on the property, but you may not discharge one without prior approval unless it's to save your life or that of another. There are places not far away that you can legally shoot and enjoy yourself. There are traditional outhouses on the property and for those that know how cat holing is allowed. Ask if unsure. No dumping tanks or portable toilets anywhere and that includes the outhouses. The state of New York has facilities at campgrounds that do a proper job with that type of waste. If you stop by, I will see you. If not go find what you seek and enjoy what has been created for everyone to pursue. Happiness. Peace be with you. Karl and Danielle

Weaver Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Tupper Lake, NY

Enjoy a taste of the Adirondacks with all of the amenities of a town. These spacious wooded lots provide a picturesque landscape that can accommodate almost any camper! This property has been family owned for 3 generations with no plans of that changing. This location used to be home to what the family referred to lovingly as the "Green Camp". The area holds many childhood memories for the family who is hoping to extend that opportunity to all who choose to reserve it. This property is centrally located just a 5minute walk from Tupper Lake Public Beach which contains a full bathhouse. It is also a 5minute drive to the award willing Raquette River Brewery and the Adirondack Rail Trail. Tupper Lake is also home to the #1 Natural History Museum in the Country "The Wild Center". Tupper Lake is part of the tri-lake region in the Adirondacks including Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. Lake Placid being home to the 1932 and 1980 winter Olympics.

Happy Camper Bus & Camp Site

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Taberg, NY

Since 2020 The Happy Camper Bus has been creating memorable times for hundreds of guests at a prior location. Hi ! I'm Jessica and in 2023 I purchased this charming skoolie with the intent to add a few changes and eventually run my skoolie entirely off-grid. Guests can expect an affordable, peaceful, family oriented stay in my 37 ft International Bus/Skoolie. You'll find custom woodwork design inside with modern touches and full electric capabilities until I convert to solar.

Camp Benjamin

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Boonville, NY

This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

100%

(36)

Absolute Serenity

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Lyons Falls, NY

Learn more about this land:100 acres of wooded land to enjoy with trails and a creek. Large open area for RV parking or find a secure area and pitch a tent. Well water & generator available upon request (no electricity). Located across the street to miles of maintained ATV trails. Nights can be enjoyed with large campfires. Wake up to the roaming deer and wild turkeys. Plenty of firewood to be burned. Enjoy the Moose river 1/4 mile down the road or Brantingham Lake 6 miles away. Mountains can be climbed just 30 minutes away. Old Forge offers many attractions.

92%

(6)

Nature's Heritage Farm

9 sites · Tents52 acres · Natural Bridge, NY

Nature's Heritage Farm is a beautiful wooded farm in the Adirondack foothills. We consider ourselves stewards of our land, and thus draw from permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and other natural farming methods to rebuild soil and ecosystem health, raise delicious food and happy animals. We have a rabbit colony, a couple horses, a flock of chickens, and a family of miniature donkeys too! We're happy to give you a tour and introduction to them. You'll love seeing our historic bank barn, and Momma Donk is guaranteed to win you over with her love of ear scratches. Nature's Heritage Farm is excited to offer DAY TRIPS to the farm!! Come get a tour, learn about all the animals, enjoy lots of snuggles and pets, and then enjoy the property for the day! We have a great play area for the kids, beautiful hiking, and more. Message us to schedule your day trip & tour! We offer primitive tent campsites. No electric or toilets are available at this time. However, we can offer a number of services and rentals, including all of the camping gear you could need. Want the fun of camping without the half day spent setting up? Let us know, we'll have a tent ready and waiting with cots, camp kitchen and supplies ready to go! Most of the property is woods (pine plantation and natural hard wood forest) crisscrossed by park like trails. You can count on finding some peace and solitude if that is what you desire. Also, there are many state parks, preserves, lakes, rivers and other enjoyable attractions nearby. Our hilltop campsite is a dark site, and you can get a wonderful, clear view of the stars! Nearby Attractions include: - Baker Woods Preserve - Turning Point Park - New York Zoo - Numerous Adirondacks parks, hikes and peaks - within day trip distance of the Thousand Islands and the Wild Center! Note that this property is near Fort Drum, so sometimes you can hear their munitions practice in the distance.

93%

(30)

Birch's Lakeside Campground/Marina

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Cranberry Lake, NY

Located on the shores of the 3rd largest lake in the Adirondack Park you will find Birch's Lakeside General Store, Campground and Marina. Nightly and Seasonal RV/Tent Campsites, bring your boat and park at the marina to access the lake, hike the Cranberry 50 or Bear Mountain, excellent fishing, stargaze, Children/Dog Friendly. Combined 28 RV/Tent sites available, 40 Marina Slips.

100%

(5)

Little brookie lodge

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Lowville, NY

Learn more about this land

100%

(6)

indian hills

3 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Redfield, NY

One 30amp and a 110v receptacle may be available for $10 extra per night. A small cabin with air mattress may also be available but please check availability first and bring your own bedding and linens. Don't forget the bug spray. In warmer weather the bugs can be quite brutal. Learn more about this land: This location receives approximately 300 inches of snow per year starting anytime around October through March. Site is available for camping from April or May through the first snowfall. Typically in late October or November. Seven miles South is the Redfield Reservoir with public boat launches great fishing swimming kayaking Etc. No animals allowed without prior permission and must have tick treatments.

82%

(30)

Holcomb Timber Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents306 acres · Benson, NY

Holcomb Timber Farm was purchased in the 1960's by Edward Holcomb. It has been passed down through the generations, and is now owned by his grandson, Ben Holcomb. The land produces a bounty of hardwoods for the upstate New York area. Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent anywhere of your choosing on our expansive 306 acre timber farm. As you drive up the main entrance, you will find a plethora of wildlife viewing opportunities. Park at the staging area and find many trails (some maintained, others abandoned.) Great for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. There is approximately 1 mile of river frontage carving through the property, which boarders the Adirondack State Park on three sides. Relax at night by the fire or take an evening dip in the creek. Enjoy your stay, as your time at Holcomb Timber Farm, and the freedom that comes with private property camping. Keep in mind this is primitive camping. Trade the crowds at campgrounds for the quiet, secluded weekend you are dreaming of. No cell service, and very limited amenities. However, perfect for the weekend warrior!

100%

(62)

Southern Adirondack Base Camp

5 sites · Tents1 acre · Caroga Lake, NY

Learn more about this land: 1/8th of a mile from river access, access to an endless trail system, and restaurant/bar on property with hotel accommodations. Several lakes near by, and plenty of outdoor recreation options to keep you busy in the Adirondacks!

Under $50

100%

(34)

Camp Benjamin

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Boonville, NY

This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Reflections Homestead

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cold Brook, NY

I am Karl and with my wife Danielle together we own 10 acres of peacefully settled forest on the edge of over 10,000 acres of State Forest land. It is on a seasonal road. I have no registered address, but a small sign marks my access road as Jacob Lane. This is a tribute to my friends. The Amish that helped me build our off-grid cabin. It is very quiet here. My closest neighbor about a half mile away and I kind of like it that way. There are seasonal roads here that allow four wheelers that behave themselves to buzz by from time to time. The forest rangers and DEC officers that patrol here keep a tight rein on the forest and its preservation. We have one guest cabin and several places a tent or RV can park. There are no hookups. Water is a precious commodity here. We capture rainwater and filter what we drink and cook with. Please bring some potable water. We do have spring water available but it's a drive. We are currently working on a well so this may not be a permanent condition. I first came here about 15 years ago. I would like to try and see if others would enjoy what we have made our lives. Be alone or follow me on my daily adventures. I do like to talk and although I don't lie, stretching the truth is an artform I have perfected so be prepared. There is a state-run beach and picnic area about 3 minute drive away on the Hinkley Reservoir. We are about 15 to 20 minutes away from the Herkimer Diamond Mines. You can bike, hike, nature watch or just enjoy the peacefulness of the tree you chose to sit against. Down and ready firewood is everywhere if you want to bend over and pick it up. You can possess firearms on the property, but you may not discharge one without prior approval unless it's to save your life or that of another. There are places not far away that you can legally shoot and enjoy yourself. There are traditional outhouses on the property and for those that know how cat holing is allowed. Ask if unsure. No dumping tanks or portable toilets anywhere and that includes the outhouses. The state of New York has facilities at campgrounds that do a proper job with that type of waste. If you stop by, I will see you. If not go find what you seek and enjoy what has been created for everyone to pursue. Happiness. Peace be with you. Karl and Danielle

Happy Camper Bus & Camp Site

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Taberg, NY

Since 2020 The Happy Camper Bus has been creating memorable times for hundreds of guests at a prior location. Hi ! I'm Jessica and in 2023 I purchased this charming skoolie with the intent to add a few changes and eventually run my skoolie entirely off-grid. Guests can expect an affordable, peaceful, family oriented stay in my 37 ft International Bus/Skoolie. You'll find custom woodwork design inside with modern touches and full electric capabilities until I convert to solar.

Tilden Hill Farm

16 sites · RVs, Tents155 acres · Vernon, NY

Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. Tent sites have a porta-john and homemade outdoor shower for your enjoyment! Our RV sites have full hookups: water, electric and also a dump station.Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 4 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all!We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"

Absolute Serenity

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Lyons Falls, NY

Learn more about this land:100 acres of wooded land to enjoy with trails and a creek. Large open area for RV parking or find a secure area and pitch a tent. Well water & generator available upon request (no electricity). Located across the street to miles of maintained ATV trails. Nights can be enjoyed with large campfires. Wake up to the roaming deer and wild turkeys. Plenty of firewood to be burned. Enjoy the Moose river 1/4 mile down the road or Brantingham Lake 6 miles away. Mountains can be climbed just 30 minutes away. Old Forge offers many attractions.

Star Hosts in Old Forge

100%

(36)

Absolute Serenity

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Lyons Falls, NY

Learn more about this land:100 acres of wooded land to enjoy with trails and a creek. Large open area for RV parking or find a secure area and pitch a tent. Well water & generator available upon request (no electricity). Located across the street to miles of maintained ATV trails. Nights can be enjoyed with large campfires. Wake up to the roaming deer and wild turkeys. Plenty of firewood to be burned. Enjoy the Moose river 1/4 mile down the road or Brantingham Lake 6 miles away. Mountains can be climbed just 30 minutes away. Old Forge offers many attractions.

100%

(5)

Tug Hill Sanctuary

1 site · RV3 acres · Constableville, NY

A great spot to privately retreat and relax to or from Canada (or anywhere else!) This property has been in my family for four generations. Nature reigns supreme here! Air so clean and sweet you’ll wish your lungs were bigger. If recreation is your thing the area has local fishing, hunting, 8 state parks and more. Local farmers market is 20 minutes away. A true retreat from Hussle and bustle. Stargazing at its finest. About an hour south of Watertown and about an hour north of Utica. Salmon River in Pulaski is about an hour away. . The property itself is entirely groomed with plenty of room to spread out. Neighbors are a good distance away for the most part — but healthy walk when you need them —friendly and helpful.

Little brookie lodge

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Lowville, NY

Learn more about this land

Southern Adirondack Base Camp

5 sites · Tents1 acre · Caroga Lake, NY

Learn more about this land: 1/8th of a mile from river access, access to an endless trail system, and restaurant/bar on property with hotel accommodations. Several lakes near by, and plenty of outdoor recreation options to keep you busy in the Adirondacks!

The Pines Lakeside Canoe & Camping

1 site · Tent13 acres · Stony Creek, NY

Enjoy a secluded lakeside campsite with two points of water access. There are no other sites on this 13 acre property, so it's very private. Complimentary canoe and stand up paddle boards for your use. New York State hiking trails just one mile down the road, plus lots of other activities like rail biking and rafting a short drive away. The campsite is just 100 steps down a well-marked trail accessible from the parking spot. Pitch your tent on the elevated platform encircled in pine trees with a view of the lake. Next to the tent area you’ll find a solar shower, picnic table, Cleanwaste toilet in outhouse, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. The site comes equipped ample firewood, fire starters, and many kitchen items including plates, bowls, utensils, cups, frying pan, can opener, wine opener, salt and pepper, cooking tongs, dish wash basin, and dish soap. Please note, that during Mother's Day and Father's Day is black fly season in the Adirondacks. Difficult to predict, but good to be aware of.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(137)

Adirondack State Park

Long Lake, New York

Delta Lake State Park

Rome, New York

Whetstone Gulf State Park

Turin, New York

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Old Forge guide

Overview

Known as “Adirondack Base Camp,” the New York hamlet of Old Forge is the perfect place to set off on adventures around the Central Adirondack region and Adirondack Park. The town boasts easy access to outdoor activities, from skiing and stand-up paddleboarding to hiking to the summit of Bald Mountain and biking or skiing on McCauley Mountain. Those who want to set up camp will find plenty of nearby options.

Where to go

Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness

Just west of Old Forge, the Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness is perfect for those seeking solitude in a beautiful, wild setting. The area has 35 miles of marked trails as well as five lakes and 16 ponds for fishing. It’s also home to wildlife including moose, black bears, and bald eagles. Just 10 minutes south of Old Forge, Nicks Lake Campground has 112 sites for campers and tents.

Black River Wild Forest

The sprawling Black River Wild Forest offers an array of recreational activities, from hiking some of its 90 miles of trails to paddling, fishing, and snowmobiling on its lakes. Nicks Lake Campground is at the northern end of the forest.

Long Lake

Appropriately named for the expansive lake that flows through it, Long Lake is a quiet and pristine corner of the Adirondacks. Naturally, boating and fishing are top activities but in the winter you can also go snowmobiling and both downhill and cross-country skiing. Around 15 minutes southwest of town, Forked Lake Campground has 80 sites.

West Canada Lake Wilderness

Around 70 miles southeast of Old Forge, West Canada Lake Wilderness is the second largest wilderness area in the Adirondack Forest Preserve. Hiking trails vary in levels of difficulty and maintenance and lead through some of the more remote areas in the Adirondack Park. Backcountry camping is allowed and there are 16 lean-tos and 28 primitive tent sites located along the Northville-Placid Trail and connecting trails.

When to go

The long, sunny days of spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the trails and water activities on offer, making these the most popular seasons to visit Old Forge and the Adirondacks generally. However, the peak summer season can bring crowds and booked-up campsites, so try to make reservations far in advance. September and October can also get busy with visitors arriving to see the vibrant colors of fall foliage while winters are relatively crowd-free and offer skiing and snowshoeing.