NY State campgrounds: A budget Adirondack vacation

It is, perhaps, one of the best vacation deals in the Adirondacks. For little more than twenty bucks a night, you can buy a spot of real estate just a few steps away from the attractions in Lake George Village, or, you can retreat to a spot beside a peaceful lake with the stillness broken only by the lonely call of a loon at dusk. Primitive campsites abound in the six million-acre Adirondack Park and require only the proper gear, maps and a little camping know-how. However, if you prefer a budget vacation that includes hot showers, flush toilets and electricity, look to a state campground.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) operates 52 campgrounds in the Adirondacks and Catskills, including several on, or around, Lake George. The amenities vary among the campgrounds but most have tent and RV sites, bathrooms with hot water, showers and electricity. Most open on Memorial Day Weekend and close in early October.

The majority of state campsites are accessible by car, so campers may easily use their site as a base for visiting area attraction. Lake George Battleground, one of the busier campgrounds, has Lake George and Million Dollar Beach at its back door. Many campgrounds are on bodies of water that offer lifeguard- supervised swimming and boat rentals. A complete list of campgrounds and amenities may be found at the DEC website.

The state campgrounds do not offer utility hookups, but generators are allowed with some restrictions to prevent excessive noise at untimely hours. Most campgrounds have trailer dump stations. With the exception of campgrounds on the Lake George Islands, pets are allowed. Owners must provide proof of rabies vaccination. Campers need to be aware of New York’s firewood transportation regulations aimed at limited the introduction of invasive species into the state’s forests.

Reservations for your Adirondack camping vacation may be made on-line at Reserve America. DEC issues permits for a maximum of 14 days; permit holders must be at least 18 years-old. In addition to the permit fees, which range from $16- $28 a night, Reserve America charges a $7.25 per reservation fee.