Forked Lake Campground
00 review381 Forked Lake Campsite Road, LONG LAKE, New York, 12847, United States
Forked Lake Campground
$20.00 - $11.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees include $20 per day for canoe rentals and $11 per bag of firewood.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Forked Lake Campground, where wilderness dreams come alive in the heart of the Adirondacks. This remote sanctuary rewards adventurous souls with spacious, heavily forested campsites that create natural privacy screens between neighbors. Thoughtfully designed grounds blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, offering an authentic backcountry experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Each generously sized site is embraced by towering trees, creating intimate outdoor rooms where the only sounds are rustling leaves and distant loon calls.
Forked Lake Campground offers a mix of primitive, tent, and RV accommodations, with some sites accessible only by boat or foot trail. The campground is known for its wilderness setting, providing a sense of isolation without being too far removed from basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceJust 20 minutes north lies the historic hamlet of Newcomb, a gateway community that has welcomed Adirondack explorers for generations. This proximity connects modern campers to the region's rich heritage of guides, loggers, and wilderness advocates who helped shape today's preserved landscape.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground truly shines during dry weather months when clear skies reveal star-studded nights and sunny days invite endless water adventures. While the Adirondacks can surprise with sudden showers, the non-rainy season transforms Forked Lake into an outdoor paradise perfect for paddling, hiking, and fireside gatherings.
ElevationPerched at high elevation within the Adirondack Mountains, the campground offers crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures that provide natural relief from summer heat. This elevated position creates stunning vistas and contributes to the area's pristine wilderness character.
Natural Features and SceneryCrystal-clear potable water stations near the parking area and boat launch ensure convenience meets wilderness. The campground's prime location on the eastern shore of the spectacular 1,248-acre Forked Lake opens up a water wonderland for paddlers and anglers. Dense forests of pine, maple, and birch create a living cathedral around the campsites, while the lake's irregular shoreline promises hidden coves and scenic paddle routes waiting to be explored.
Geological RegionNestled within the six-million-acre Adirondack Park, Forked Lake Campground showcases the region's signature wilderness tapestry of ancient mountains, pristine lakes, and unbroken forests. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where glacial forces carved deep valleys and left behind the sparkling water bodies that define this wilderness paradise. This is quintessential Adirondack country, where untouched forests stretch to the horizon and wildlife outnumbers visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySites designated as accessible require at least one member of the party to be mobility-impaired. Otherwise, the party may be turned away.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and well-forested, offering ample space and privacy.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are noted for being secluded and private, with many accessible only by boat or foot trail. 'Campsites are spread out, so you don’t feel cramped,' and 'you feel like you’re alone' are common sentiments.
Total Campsites78 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBook
Best CampsitesAlways best
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Stay Limit
Your camping permit can be issued for a maximum of 14 nights. From July 1 through Labor Day only 14 cumulative nights will be permitted at any campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 6 individuals per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRandom
Open and Closed SeasonFrom July 1 through Labor Day, only 14 cumulative nights will be permitted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can presumably be made directly onsite.
Walk-in AvailabilityOnsite-availability is possible
Cancellation Policy/
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Forked Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered on its lakefront setting, including boating, canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The lake is described as ideal for motorboats, rowboats, and canoes, with numerous fish species available for fishing. Some reviews mention that the lake provides opportunities for stargazing, sunrises, and sunsets.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, but details on difficulty levels or distances are not provided.Fishing
The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for brook trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bullhead, yellow perch, and panfish. User reviews describe the fishing experience as 'excellent.'Boating
Boating activities are a core feature, with rowboat and canoe rentals available. Some reviews note that 'canoe to your own campsite' adds to the experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as loons can be observed near the lake. User reviews highlight the peaceful setting as conducive to wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter recreation such as ice fishing is not explicitly mentioned; therefore, opportunities for winter activities are unclear.Water Sports
Opportunities include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with rentals available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Careless
- Quiet hours are 10*11
Hazards
General hazardsExranights extra vehicals parking
Active alertsLate check
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesJuly-Labor Day
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash bins on-site; campers are required to carry out all their garbage. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresEasy
Common complaintsLate chk
Hostnull
Campground Map
381 Forked Lake Campsite Road, LONG LAKE, New York, 12847, United States
Driving directionsForked Lake Public Campground can be reached by leaving State Routes 28N and 30 at Deerland and driving southwest on County Roads 3 (North Point Rd) and 20 (Forked Lake Campsite Lane) to the east shore of Forked Lake.
The campground is accessible via paved county roads, though specific road conditions and potential seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
The village of Long Lake is 7 miles west. The Adirondack Museum at Blue Mountain Lake is 14 miles east. The Adirondack Park visitors Interpretive Center at Newcomb is 20 miles north.
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: Convenience store, hiking trail, interpretive center, museum, and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Forked Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The user reviews for Forked Lake Campground highlight its secluded and peaceful atmosphere, excellent fishing and boating opportunities, and spacious campsites. Some visitors appreciate the wilderness experience, while others note the lack of certain amenities like flush toilets and trash bins.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- 'Campsites are secluded and private.'
- 'Amazing views and stargazing.'
- 'Great place to disconnect from electronics.'
- 'Safe and peaceful environment.'
- 'Affordable rentals for canoes and...
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Common Concerns
- Lack of accessible parking and difficult terrain for some sites.
- 'Horrible guest service from the staff' noted in a single complaint.
- Presence of mosquitoes and mayflies during certain...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring mosquito repellent and additional supplies for comfort.
- Canoe rentals are $20/day, and firewood is $11/bag.
- Visit after Labor Day for a quieter experience.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews consistently suggest that the campground is busiest during the summer months, with some visitors recommending visits in the fall for a quieter experience.
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful, rustic, tree-filled campsites!' - Jenn Haley
- 'If you liked the movie “Moonrise Kingdom,” you’ll enjoy this!' - Jonathan Hokklo
- 'Ideal location for camping by the lake.' - Aditya...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 63 and 64: Noted for their great view of the lake; accessible by boat and trail.
- Site 22: Described as secluded with good sun exposure.
- Site 59: Rough for landing kayaks but beautiful.
-...
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Accessibility Features
Some complaints about staff not accommodating individuals with mobility issues. Paths to campsites can be challenging for those with physical disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must remain on a leash and under control. Dogs are prohibited in facility structures and on the beach.
Last updated August 10, 2025