Fish Creek Pond Campground
00 review4523 State Route 30, SARANAC LAKE, New York, 12983, United States
Fish Creek Pond Campground
$22.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$35.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee range is $22 to $35, depending on the type of campsite and season. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or for premium waterfront sites.
About this campground
Nestled along pristine waterfront in the heart of the Adirondacks, Fish Creek Pond Campground has earned its reputation as a crown jewel among outdoor destinations. Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves against natural sand beaches, where your campsite might be just steps from the water's edge. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – paddle across mirror-like waters as morning mist rises, explore winding trails through towering pines, or simply float in the refreshing swimming areas while clouds drift overhead. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's where memories are made around crackling campfires and adventures begin with each sunrise.
Fish Creek Pond Campground mainly offers traditional tent camping, RV camping without hookups, and a limited number of group camping options. Cabins and luxury accommodations are not available.
Historical SignificanceFor more than seven decades, Fish Creek Pond has stood as the flagship jewel of New York State's DEC campgrounds, welcoming generations of families who return year after year to their favorite sites. Grandparents share stories of their first visits while teaching grandchildren to bait hooks in the same spots where they learned decades ago. This living legacy continues to grow, with each season adding new chapters to the countless family traditions born on these shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Adirondack seasons at Fish Creek Pond. Summer arrives with warm, golden days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons on the beach, punctuated by refreshing mountain rain that brings out the earthy scent of pine. As autumn paints the landscape in brilliant reds and golds, crisp air invites cozy evenings by the fire. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland for the hardy souls who embrace cold-weather camping, while spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, though muddy boots are part of the adventure during this renewal season.
ElevationSet within the gentle rolling terrain of the central Adirondacks, the campground offers an accessible wilderness experience without extreme elevation challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering white pines whisper ancient stories and pristine waters reflect endless sky. The campground's natural sandy beaches – a rare treasure in the Adirondacks – invite barefoot wandering and sandcastle dreams. Meandering streams feed into peaceful ponds and expansive lake vistas, creating a water wonderland that beckons exploration. As dusk falls, the haunting call of loons echoes across the water, a wild soundtrack that reminds you how far you've traveled from the everyday world. Morning might bring a great blue heron fishing in the shallows or a family of ducks paddling past your waterfront site.
Geological RegionFish Creek Pond rests in the ancient heart of Adirondack Park, where billion-year-old mountains have been sculpted by time into a paradise of interconnected waterways and forests. This geological masterpiece showcases the classic Adirondack landscape – crystalline lakes carved by glaciers, dense pine and hardwood forests climbing gentle slopes, and a network of streams and ponds that create a paddler's dream. The region's unique geology has gifted the campground with its signature sandy shores and the clear, clean waters that define the Adirondack experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are accessible sites, but at least one person in the party must be mobility impaired to use them. Accessibility reviews are mixed, with some facilities noted as outdated.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate two tents or one hard-wheeled camping unit and a tent. Maximum equipment length varies, with some sites accommodating up to 40 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy, with many being close together and lacking tree cover. Some campers noted that creek-side sites are more secluded.
Total Campsites305 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites above 130 offer better privacy and size while creekside sites like C12, C13 are suitable for smaller groups seeking quiet.
Best CampsitesSites 138-158 are considered the nicest. Creekside sites C12 and C13 offer more privacy and water access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
From 2 PM until 9 PM.
Check-out
10 AM.
Stay Limit
Amaximum stay of 14 nights is allowed during peak seasons.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 6 individuals per campsite.
Groups
Group sites accommodate up to 6 people and allow up to 2 tents or 1 RV and a tent.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in loops around various ponds. Most sites are waterfront but with little vegetation between them.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but peak camping is from June to August.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the campground's official website or via phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited and varies during peak season due to the campground's popularity.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to forfeiture of fees, especially if the cancellation occurs within the first night of a reservation.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Fish Creek Pond Campground are plentiful, with options for both land and water-based fun. Popular activities include fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and biking. Wildlife viewing and beach activities are also highlighted.
Hiking
Hiking trails begin directly from the campground, and nearby trails like Otter Hollow Loop and Floodwood Loop are popular. Difficulty levels vary.Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction, with the waters hosting black bass, northern pike, panfish, lake trout, and salmon. 'Fishing was pretty good,' one camper said, but some noted no bites during their visits.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty. Most campsites offer direct lake access for recreational swimming.Biking
Campground roads are suitable for biking, and many campers bring bikes to explore the large facility.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed. The interconnected lakes and ponds provide ample boating opportunities. A boat launch is available.Wildlife viewing
Loons and various fish are common sights. Campers frequently mention enjoying the sounds of loons at night.Beach activities
The natural sand shoreline is ideal for sunbathing and launching kayaks or paddleboards. The beach is supervised during designated hours.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs include nature hikes, crafts, and live entertainment at the amphitheater, especially during the summer.Winter Activities
The campground supports winter camping, but activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing are available nearby.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing are popular activities due to direct water access from most sites.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires restricted to fireplaces provided; only dead and down wood may be used for fuel.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMotorized boat traffic can create noise and waves; occasional bear sightings due to food left unattended.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.4 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
Hospital and emergency services available within 10 miles in Saranac Lake.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune through August.
Trash and recyclingCentralized recycling and garbage facilities require campers to dispose of waste in clear plastic bags. There are limited dumpster options, causing inconvenience for some campers.
Proximity to water featuresAlmost all sites are waterfront, offering direct access to Fish Creek Pond, Square Pond, and connected water bodies.
Common complaintsRestrooms are outdated and in need of refurbishment. Sites close together leading to reduced privacy.
HostFriendly and helpful rangers frequently mentioned in reviews.
Campground Map
4523 State Route 30, SARANAC LAKE, New York, 12983, United States
Driving directionsFrom the Northway (I-87) northbound: Take Exit 30, Route 9 North, to Rte. 73; go north to Lake Placid. Take Route 86 North through Saranac Lake to Rte. 186 West; then take Rte. 30 South 9 miles to Fish Creek Pond. From the Northway (I-87) southbound: Take Exit 38, Rte. 374 West, to Rte. 3 West, to Saranac Lake. From Saranac Lake, take Rte. 186 West; then take Rte. 30 South 9 miles to Fish Creek Pond. From I-81: Take Exit 48, Rte. 342 East, to Rte. 3 & 30; take Rte. 30 North to Fish Creek Pond.
Road access is generally good for major vehicles but traffic levels can be high during peak seasons, especially the main loop roads. The roads are not particularly large and may be challenging for RVs or trailers over 30 feet.Nearby places
Lake Placid (25 miles), Tupper Lake (15 minutes), Saranac Lake (9 miles)
Nearby supplies
A general store outside the campground offers essentials, and groceries can be purchased at Tupper Lake (15 minutes) or Saranac Lake (25 minutes).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Fish Creek Pond Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Fish Creek Pond Campground are overwhelmingly positive, praising the natural beauty, waterfront access, and variety of activities. However, issues such as outdated facilities, lack of privacy, and high traffic are commonly noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Most campsites are waterfront, offering beautiful views and direct access to the lake. Campers appreciate the variety of activities and the friendly atmosphere.
Common Concerns
Outdated restroom and shower facilities are a recurring complaint. Limited privacy and crowded conditions during peak season are also noted.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bikes to explore the campground and being prepared for possible noise. Some suggest booking sites 134 and up for better privacy.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busy during the summer, with crowded conditions and high boat traffic. Fall offers a quieter experience. Winter camping is possible but less popular.
Camper Quotes
"Virtually all sites are waterfront, hence its huge popularity." - Wayne Clark. "The campground is busy and wraps all the way around the lake." - Mark Woolley. "Just love it, been going since 1960."...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 is described as small and less private. Sites 134 and higher are considered less crowded and more spacious.
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are available, but the condition of restroom facilities limits their usefulness.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly with leash requirements. Pets are not allowed on the beach or in facility structures.
Last updated August 10, 2025