Lake Durant
00 review8301 STATE ROUTES 28 & 30, BLUE MOUNTAIN LAKE, New York, 12812, United States
Lake Durant
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for camping at Lake Durant is $20, making it accessible for budget-conscious campers.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil eastern shores of Lake Durant, this intimate Adirondack gem offers an escape into nature's embrace where towering pines frame stunning vistas of Blue Mountain. Here, morning mist dances across the water as loons call in the distance, while spacious, forest-shrouded campsites promise the privacy and serenity that modern life rarely affords. Whether you're casting a line from the accessible fishing piers, paddling the glassy waters in a rented kayak, or setting off on woodland trails that wind through ancient forests, Lake Durant Campground delivers an authentic wilderness experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Lake Durant Campground offers tent and RV sites, tailored for a basic yet enriching camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThe rich tapestry of Adirondack heritage unfolds just beyond the campground, where the renowned Adirondack Museum showcases centuries of mountain culture, from logging camps to grand hotels. The nearby Adirondack Park Visitors Interpretive Center invites exploration of the region's fascinating natural and human history, offering insights into the delicate balance between wilderness preservation and human habitation that has shaped this six-million-acre park—the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently here, with warm days reaching a comfortable 80°F perfect for lake adventures, while evenings cool to a refreshing 55°F—ideal for gathering around the campfire under star-studded skies. The dry, pleasant humidity makes hiking and outdoor activities a joy from dawn to dusk. When winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, heavy snowfall blankets the region in pristine white, temperatures dip below 30°F, and mountain winds exceeding 30 mph create a dramatic backdrop for those seeking the raw beauty of an Adirondack winter.
ElevationPerched within the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, the campground rests at the moderate elevations characteristic of this ancient range, where the terrain rises and falls in gentle waves of forested ridges and valley lakes. This positioning creates the perfect microclimate—high enough to escape summer's most oppressive heat, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering evergreens and deciduous giants creates a living canopy above the campground, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Lake Durant itself, a serene man-made reservoir, mirrors the surrounding wilderness and distant Blue Mountain peaks in its calm waters. This shallow lake teems with bass waiting to test your angling skills, while the haunting call of loons at twilight reminds visitors they've entered a world where wildlife reigns supreme. Each season paints the landscape anew—from spring's delicate wildflowers to autumn's fiery foliage display.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, the campground occupies a landscape sculpted by billions of years of geological drama. These weathered peaks, among the oldest on Earth, cradle Lake Durant—a testament to human engineering harmoniously integrated into the natural world. The surrounding forest-cloaked mountains and the distinctive dome of Blue Mountain create a panoramic backdrop that captures the rugged beauty and timeless appeal of the Adirondack wilderness, where every vista tells the story of ice ages, tectonic shifts, and the enduring power of nature.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible facilities are available, including a fishing pier and general site design.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate tents and trailers, with a maximum equipment length of 30 feet for most sites.
Sites PrivacySites are described as forested and offering privacy, though some user reviews noted that certain sites felt less secluded.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for better views and privacy. Avoid sites near the entrance if seeking seclusion.
Best CampsitesCampsite #50 noted as a favorite due to proximity to the lake and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
From 2 PM until 9 PM.
Check-out
10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum camping permit is 14 nights, with cumulative limits during July 1–Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 individuals are permitted per campsite.
Groups
No information available about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are divided into loops (e.g., Sites 001-009), with privacy created by forest cover.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, subject to seasonal conditions; peak camping season is summer.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s website or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible but may be limited during peak summer months.
Cancellation PolicyCampers must register for their campsite by 9:00 p.m. on the first night of their reservation or the campsite will be subject to re-rental, and all fees will be forfeited.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational options include boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, and the lake supports various fish species. Trails connect to nearby ponds, and wildlife viewing is possible.
Hiking
Two trailheads are available within the campground. Trails are described as not overly difficult, with rewarding end destinations. The Northville-Placid Trail offers connections to several ponds.Fishing
Fishing options include species such as tiger musky, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and brook trout. An accessible fishing pier is available.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at the sandy beach, though some users found the area shallow and more suited to children.Biking
Biking within the campground and surrounding areas is supported, though specific biking trails are not detailed.Boating
Boating is permitted, with canoe and kayak rentals available. The lake is shallow and more suited for smaller boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as loons can be observed, enhancing the natural ambiance.Beach activities
The sand beach is available for recreational activities.Winter Activities
Not applicable; the campground is primarily used during warmer months.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and sailboating are popular water activities on Lake Durant.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fireplaces using dead and down wood only. Chainsaws are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are known to frequent the area; campers are required to store food securely. Mosquitoes are abundant, especially in summer, making insect repellent necessary.
Active alertsDuring certain periods, bear activity and boil-water advisories have been reported.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include: hospital in Tupper Lake (35 miles), nearest Ranger Station on-site, and local police services accessible through Indian Lake.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day are identified as peak dates.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but users note strict rules for waste disposal and sorting. A recycling center is on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Durant, fishing pier accessible, kayaking opportunities, and swimming area available.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Route 28/30 during daytime hours (6 AM–6 PM), strict enforcement of rules by staff, and small swimming area described as shallow and weedy.
HostStaff are described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating, though some reviews mention overly strict enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
8301 STATE ROUTES 28 & 30, BLUE MOUNTAIN LAKE, New York, 12812, United States
Driving directionsFrom the NYS Thruway (I-90), take Exit 27 at Amsterdam; go north on Route 30 through the villages of Wells, Speculator, and Indian Lake. The campground is 9 miles north of Indian Lake, on Route 30, on the left side of the road. From Adirondack Northway (I-87), take Exit 23 at Warrensburg; take Route 9 North of Route 28 West, to Indian Lake Village. The campground is 9 miles north of Indian Lake, on the left side of the road.
The campground is accessible via major highways, including I-90 and I-87, and is located along Route 30. Road access appears to be well-maintained and suitable for recreational vehicles. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Blue Mountain Lake (2 miles north), Indian Lake (9 miles south), Newcomb (25 miles east), Tupper Lake (35 miles northwest).
Nearby supplies
Convenience store, restaurants, and museum within 10 miles
firewood sales, recycling facilities, and canoe/kayak rentals available on-site.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Durant has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere, though staff enforcement of rules is a contentious issue.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, new and well-maintained showers, scenic lake views, good fishing, and accommodating staff.
Common Concerns
Strict enforcement of rules, limited swimming depth, traffic noise during the day, and proximity of some sites leading to reduced privacy.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Rent a kayak to explore the lake. Reserve lakeside sites for better views. Be prepared for strict rules on waste disposal and quiet hours.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highly recommended for its warmer weather, but visitors noted that privacy and noise levels vary. Mosquitoes and bears are common during this season, so precautions are necessary.
Camper Quotes
"The lake and Blue Mountain are incredibly picturesque." "Facilities and campsites were spotlessly clean and well maintained." "Strict rules, but the site is gorgeous."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #50 is highlighted as a favorite for its views and proximity to the lake. Some lakeside sites offer great access, but others are less convenient.
Accessibility Features
At least one accessible site is available for mobility-impaired guests, and the fishing pier is ADA-compliant.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed with leash requirements. They are not permitted on the beach or certain day-use areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025