Welcome to the realm of boundless outdoor exploration nestled within the heart of the Adirondacks, where nature reveals itself in its awe-inspiring glory. The vast wilderness playground, spanning over six million acres, offers an open invitation to adventure-seekers with its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and untamed forests. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of conquering rugged trails, the thrill of water expeditions, or the serenity of camping under a star-studded sky, the Adirondacks stand ready to meet your every expectation. These tips and must-read books can help you plan your adventure.
Camp in the Wilderness
The great thing about the Adirondack’s vast wilderness is that you can choose the level of wildness you want. Some camp spots require boating in while others are drive-up, with options in between. Whatever way you decide, nature is at your doorstep every inch of the way.
Lewey Lake Campground, with 195 spots, is easily accessible and has full campground facilities where you can rent a canoe or boat to fish or explore wetlands and marsh ecosystems. Hike the four-mile trail to the Snowy Mountain Fire Tower for spectacular views of the lake and forest.
Head to Saranac Lake for island camping with primitive sites accessible only by boat. All campsites at Saranac Lakes Islands State Campground are waterfront so that you can swim, boat, canoe, and hike while getting your nature fix.
For the adventurous, head out to Upper Saranac Lake and the boat launch on Follensby Clear Pond, where, in under 30 minutes, you can discover your own island with primitive campsites and no fees or reservations. Hang your hammock and watch the stars in solitude.
For more ideas, visit 10 Awesome Camping Spots in the Adirondacks.
How to Prepare for Your Adventure
If you are a novice camper, a must-read is James Kavanagh’s Camping Essentials. The waterproof, foldable guide will instruct you on tying knots, lighting a fire, first aid, and even star gazing. Kavanagh is a zoologist, seasoned traveler, and camper and has packed a lot of information in this booklet.
The Camper’s Survival Guide is a must-read book that will teach you camping etiquette, how to choose a campsite, pitching a tent, and essential gear, all to help make your time in the woods fun and safe. It’s a great companion to Camping Essentials.
Family Camping
Camping is a great way to spend time together as a family. Many family-friendly campgrounds offer activities to keep the kids engaged while learning about nature.
If sleeping indoors is more your type of camping, the Adirondacks Loj (lodge) on Heart Lake has you covered with private and bunk rooms and meals provided as an option. Book a guided trail tour, swim, and paddle, all only 15 minutes from Lake Placid.
Just outside of Old Forge, Nick’s Lake Campground has a playground, picnic area, and campsites and is close enough to go into town for dinner. White-tail deer are frequent visitors!
Fish Creek Ponds in Clear Lake features full campground amenities, including showers and bathroom facilities, with waterfront camping. The best part—an ice cream truck rolls in every night.
Want to bring your pup along? Most campgrounds allow dogs on a leash but be sure to check with each site ahead. To keep Fido safe and happy, check out the must-read book Doghiker for tips while hiking and for preventing wild animal encounters.
The Best Hikes
Five-Star Trails by Tim Starmer is a must-read book that lists 46 of his favorite hikes crossing the Adirondacks. Take the moderately challenging Black Mountain and Lake George Trail at Huletts Landing for a 7.7-mile loop. Hiking alongside the river can sometimes be muddy, but spectacular views of northern Lake George at the summit are your reward.
Calamity Brook Trail will lead you to Hanging Spear Falls along the Opalescent River. This is a 10.6-mile back trail out of Newcomb, and the day can be broken up by camping along the way. Dog-friendly, wildflower viewing, and a 75-foot high hourglass-shaped waterfall combine for a visit to nature at its best.
What’s Cooking?
Campground cooking is an art, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Ditch the freeze-dried packets and organize a few essentials to elevate your outdoor dining adventure. If you can make a fire, you can cook, and if you have a Dutch oven, even better.
Plan ahead and have a checklist. Think pouches (instead of cans) of beans, tuna or salmon, premade salads, oatmeal, and rice. Pre-chop veggies and purchase marinated meats in tightly sealed bags. Don’t forget to treat yourself with a wheel of brie, and add nuts and dried fruits that can double as trail snacks.
Must-Read Books on Nature
The spring and summer months bring migrating birds to the area to mate, reproduce, and fill the air with song. Grab your binoculars and take advantage of the over 200 species, from warblers to raptors, that will entertain you while they show off their mating displays. Learn more about them in Birds of the Adirondacks.
One of the perks of warm-weather hiking is the myriad of wildflowers blanketing the forests and bogs. Blooming in succession, each contributes to a part of an intricate ecosystem, providing a food source for insects, which pollinate along the way. Look for the stunning white star-shaped native Buckbean that flourishes on wet soil or the shallow waters of ponds. Learn what else you’ll find in Wildflowers of the Adirondacks.
Leave No Trace
Remember to follow the code of ethics called Leave No Trace when visiting any natural wilderness. This includes seven principles to follow to reduce impact on ecologically sensitive places.
Many may seem like common sense but are important to retain the pristine features of the wilderness and to allow others to see nature as it was intended. For instance, don’t be tempted to toss that banana peel or apple core into the woods, as it can take up to two years to decompose. Refrain from stacking rocks to keep the vistas original. The last, “Always be kind and considerate to others,” rings true with any adventure.
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Lace up your hiking boots, paddle your canoe, and pitch your tent as you immerse yourself in a world of natural wonder and untamed beauty. The Adirondacks await your arrival.
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