Putnam Pond
00 review763 Putts Pond Rd., TICONDEROGA, New York, 12883, United States
Putnam Pond
$5.00 - $20.00 / 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
Campground fees range from $5 for firewood to $20 for boat rentals. There may be additional fees for extra vehicles parked in designated areas.
About this campground
Nestled at the doorstep of the enchanting Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, Putnam Pond Campground offers adventurers the best of both worlds—from well-appointed sites with modern amenities to secluded wilderness escapes. Each spacious campsite is thoughtfully carved into the ancient forest, providing a private sanctuary where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and rustling leaves. Hot showers and pristine facilities ensure comfort after a day of exploration, while the towering trees create natural barriers between sites, making each feel like your own personal retreat.
Putnam Pond caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and primitive camping at remote sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore a landscape steeped in American heritage. Just a short drive away, the legendary Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point Historic Site stand as sentinels of our nation's founding struggles. These hallowed grounds witnessed pivotal moments in the Revolutionary War, where patriots and redcoats once clashed for control of this strategic corridor. Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of history while enjoying the same natural beauty that has captivated travelers for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Putnam Pond in dramatically different strokes. Summer arrives with sun-dappled waters perfect for swimming and paddling, as warm breezes carry the scent of pine through humid afternoons. Autumn transforms the landscape into a masterpiece of crimson maples and golden birches, with crisp air that makes morning coffee taste even better. Winter blankets the wilderness in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture forth. Spring awakens the forest with a symphony of rushing streams, unfurling ferns, and wildflowers pushing through the thawing earth.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible for all skill levels, with subtle elevation changes that add interest to hiking trails without overwhelming newcomers to mountain camping.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient Adirondack forests mirror themselves in the glassy surfaces of Putnam Pond and North Pond. Towering pines and hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead, while the understory bursts with ferns and wildflowers. The haunting call of loons echoes across the water at dusk, and lucky visitors might spot industrious beavers engineering their lodges along the shoreline. Mountain peaks frame the horizon, their profiles softened by morning mist and painted golden by evening light.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the legendary Adirondack Mountains, this campground rests within one of North America's most ancient geological formations. The surrounding peaks and valleys tell a billion-year story written in granite and gneiss, while crystalline ponds fill basins carved by glaciers. This unique position near Lake Champlain creates a diverse ecosystem where northern forests meet wetlands, offering campers an extraordinary variety of landscapes to explore within a single adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, but official sources require that at least one member of the camping party staying on the site must be mobility impaired.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with official occupancy limits of six individuals per site and two tents or one unit of hard-wheeled camping equipment and one tent.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Sites in the developed area are described as 'well-forested,' and remote sites as 'spaced very far apart.' However, one user noted that 'the campsites aren’t very far from each other' for some areas, impacting privacy.
Total Campsites72 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRemote sites are ideal for privacy and water access, but they require a boat for entry. Developed sites like #48 and #28 offer proximity to bathrooms and scenic trails.
Best CampsitesRemote site R9 offers fantastic views and access to the water, while developed sites like #28 and #48 are noted for their privacy and proximity to clean facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
From 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Check-out
10:00 a.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights. During July 1 through Labor Day, only 14 cumulative nights are permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to six individuals per campsite.
Groups
No information about group sites provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops including Remote Sites 001-009 and Developed Sites 001-072.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, although reservations are required during peak summer season (July 1 - Labor Day).
Reservation PlatformsReservation can be made through the NY DEC website or by calling the campground directly.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable for some sites, but campers must register by 9:00 p.m. on the first night of their stay.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Putnam Pond supports a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. It is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails leading into Pharaoh Lake Wilderness and activities ranging from water sports to exploring old mining remnants.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity, with trails leading into Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. Official sources mention the Swing Trail, which is 12 miles long and passes areas like Grizzle Ocean, Pharaoh Lake, and Alder Pond. User reviews highlight trails such as the red trail around Rock Pond with access to an old graphite mine and the yellow trail leading to swimming locations.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species like sunfish, perch, bullhead, bass, and pike in the main pond, and trout in nearby ponds accessible via hiking trails. User reviews describe the fishing as 'superb' and 'good largemouth fishing,' although some note catching smaller fish.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the ponds, provided lifeguards are on duty. User reviews highlight the clean and cool waters as a draw for swimming.Biking
Biking is encouraged, especially within the campground. One user described it as 'nice to bike around the park.'Boating
Boating is popular, with rentals available for canoes and kayaks. Ponds are described as calm and scenic, suitable for family exploration.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is noted for species like loons and beavers. The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness area offers further opportunities to encounter small wildlife along the trails.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned in the provided data.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking and canoeing, with rentals available within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be built in fireplaces provided. No chainsaws are allowed, and cutting down trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and black flies are prevalent, especially near wetlands. Spider infestations have been noted in user reviews during fall months.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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: Moses Ludington Hospital in Ticonderoga (6 miles); Police: Ticonderoga Police Department (6 miles); Fire: Ticonderoga Fire Department (6 miles)
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day
Trash and recyclingThe campground has a recycling station and garbage cans that are reset several times a day, according to user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresPutnam Pond is the central water feature, connected to North Pond, offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurrent complaints include excessive mosquitoes, spider infestations, and narrow internal roadways within the campground.
HostCampground staff are described as friendly and accommodating in multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
763 Putts Pond Rd., TICONDEROGA, New York, 12883, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-87, take Exit 28, then east on Rte. 74 approximately 12 miles.From Ticonderoga, go west on Rte. 74 approximately 6 miles. Follow signs on roadside of Rte. 74 that will direct you to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Route 74, which is a paved road. Roadways within the campground are narrow and can only accommodate one car at a time.Nearby places
Ticonderoga: 6 miles (approximately 10 minutes)
Schroon Lake: 18 miles (approximately 25 minutes)
Crown Point: 20 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Walmart and Dunkin Donuts are 15 minutes away in Ticonderoga. Convenience stores, restaurants, and shopping within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Putnam Pond has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. The site is described as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with abundant hiking and fishing opportunities. However, there are contrasting opinions on issues like privacy and mosquito presence.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, scenic trails, excellent fishing, friendly staff, and a peaceful environment are commonly praised.
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes and black flies are a persistent issue, as noted in several reviews. Some users also reported privacy concerns due to nearby campers and dated restroom facilities in some areas.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing mosquito repellant and tarps to combat rainy conditions. Booking remote sites in advance is recommended for privacy and scenic views.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer is ideal for hiking and fishing but note significant bug activity. Fall is recommended for its cooler weather and fewer insects.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms were always clean, the showers were always clean, and the campground as a whole was ALWAYS CLEAN.' 2. 'The ponds are beautiful, and if you bring your own boats, you don’t have to...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #48 is described as great for small tents but challenging to navigate due to uneven terrain and tree roots. Site #28 is praised for not being buggy despite general fly issues elsewhere.
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are available, but no user reviews specifically address accessibility experiences.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with proof of rabies vaccination. Users generally appreciate the pet-friendly policies, though one reviewer sought clarification on whether trails allow dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025