Fish Creek Pond Campground

For New Yorkers dreaming of an authentic Adirondack camping experience, Fish Creek Pond Campground in Saranac Lake, NY, stands out as a beloved and highly sought-after destination. Often lauded as "VERY NICE CAMPGROUND!" by its visitors, it offers a unique connection to nature that few other places can match. What truly sets Fish Creek Pond apart is its remarkable layout: "Almost every site is on the water." Imagine waking up to the serene views of Fish Creek Pond or Square Pond right outside your camper or tent, with direct access to the water for a morning paddle or fish. This unparalleled waterfront access is a major draw, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in the Adirondack wilderness.

While some reviewers note that "the sites are close together," this proximity can also foster a sense of community among fellow outdoor enthusiasts. And despite not having electric hookups on most sites, the ability to find a "level site with our front window looking out to the lake" (as one RVer happily discovered) highlights the beauty and charm of this state-run gem. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Fish Creek Pond Campground provides a rustic yet comfortable environment, focusing on the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the Adirondack Park is famous for. It’s a place where you can enjoy "Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking all available," making it an ideal retreat for those looking to disconnect and explore the wild heart of New York.

Fish Creek Pond Campground is centrally located within the expansive Adirondack Park, with its official address listed as

The campground's location along State Route 30 makes it relatively accessible for visitors from across New York State and beyond. Route 30 is a well-maintained scenic highway that traverses a significant portion of the Adirondacks. From major New York cities like Albany, Syracuse, or the greater New York City area, the drive involves traveling north into the park, leading to a truly wild and refreshing environment. The nearest major village is Saranac Lake, approximately 15 miles to the east, offering amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and local shops. Tupper Lake, home to The Wild Center (the Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks), is about 11 miles southwest, providing a fantastic educational outing. Lake Placid, famous for its Olympic venues and vibrant village life, is also within a reasonable driving distance, approximately 25 miles to the southeast. The campground’s strategic placement allows campers to easily venture out for day trips while still returning to the tranquility of their waterfront site. The fact that the campground is built around Fish Creek Pond and Square Pond, and connects to Rollins Pond Campground, means that a vast network of interconnected waterways is literally at your doorstep, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration right from your campsite. This prime Adirondack location makes Fish Creek Pond Campground a top choice for New Yorkers seeking an authentic wilderness experience without being entirely cut off from local conveniences and attractions.

Services Offered

• Campsites: The campground boasts 355 campsites, accommodating a wide range of camping equipment from tents to RVs up to 40 feet.
  • Waterfront Sites: A major highlight, "almost every site is on the water" of Fish Creek Pond or Square Pond. Sites 1-305 are generally considered waterfront on the main ponds.
  • Non-Waterfront Sites: Sites on a quieter stream (C sites) or inland (A sites) are also available.
  • Level Sites: Many sites, including some for larger RVs, are noted as being level.
  • No Electric Hookups: It's important to note that sites at Fish Creek Pond Campground do not offer electric hookups.
  • Water Access: Water taps are available throughout the campground, allowing campers to fill their tanks with hose sections.
  • Picnic Tables & Fireplaces/Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with up to two picnic tables and a fireplace or fire ring for campfires.
• Restrooms & Showers: The campground provides flush toilets throughout and large shower buildings (30 showers for men, 30 for women) with hot showers that are now free.
• Trailer Dumping Station: A triple-lane trailer dumping station is available for RVs.
• Recycling Stations: Central recycling areas are designated for garbage disposal at specific times; clear plastic bags are required.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
• Boat Launch: A trailered boat launch is available for access to Fish Creek Pond, Square Pond, and Upper Saranac Lake (via the ponds).
• Campground Staff: Friendly and accommodating staff are available to assist campers, including helping with site changes if needed.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed with proof of a current rabies vaccination, on a leash no longer than six feet, and must not be left unattended or allowed in facility structures, on the beach, or in day-use areas.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Water Access from Sites: This is a defining feature, with the majority of sites offering immediate proximity to the water, perfect for "front window looking out to the lake" views.
• Boating Paradise:
  • Motorized Boating: Fish Creek Pond and Square Pond are open to motorboat usage, and access to Upper Saranac Lake provides miles of open water.
  • Non-Motorized Boating: Ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Rowboats and canoes are also available for offsite rental (likely at Rollins Pond or nearby outfitters).
• Fishing Opportunities: Excellent freshwater fishing in Fish Creek, Square Pond, and Rollins Pond for species like black bass, northern pike, and pan fish. Upper Saranac Lake offers lake trout and landlocked salmon.
• Extensive Hiking & Biking Trails: Many miles of trails begin directly from the campground, including popular routes like the Otter Hollow Loop and Floodwood Loop, suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. Paved bike paths are also available within the park.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming area with a natural sand shoreline is available. Swimming is allowed during designated hours when a lifeguard is on duty (note: lifeguard availability may vary).
• Amphitheater & Recreation Programs: An organized Interpreter Activity Program runs from early July until Labor Day, offering fun activities for kids and families, including nature hikes, crafts, games, and live entertainment at the amphitheater.
• Playground: A playground is available for children.
• Sports Courts: Volleyball and basketball areas provide additional recreational opportunities.
• Proximity to Adirondack Attractions: Conveniently located near The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, the Adirondack Park Visitors Interpretive Center at Paul Smiths, and the Olympic venues in Lake Placid.
• Community Vibe: Despite sites being close together, many campers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and "spirit of camaraderie."

Promotions or Special Offers

As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground, Fish Creek Pond Campground operates under state-set fee structures and reservation policies rather than offering frequent commercial "promotions" in the typical sense. However, certain aspects can be considered beneficial "offers" for campers:

• Affordable Nightly Rates: The camping fee is generally set at an affordable rate (e.g., $22 per night), making it a budget-friendly option for many New Yorkers. Note: A $5 per night surcharge applies for out-of-state residents.
• Reservation System: Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance via Reserve America (online or by phone at 1-800-456-2267), which is a key "offer" given the campground's extreme popularity, especially for July and August dates. Same-day reservations are also allowed until 5 PM on the day of arrival.
• Length of Stay: A maximum stay of 14 nights is permitted, with a cumulative maximum of 14 nights between July 1st and Labor Day at any DEC campground, allowing for extended vacations.
• Day Use Passes: Non-campers can utilize campground amenities like the picnic area, beach, and playground by paying a small day-use fee, offering an affordable way to enjoy the park for locals not camping overnight.
• Accessible Sites: Specific accessible campsites and features (like fishing/viewing platforms and accessible restrooms) are provided, ensuring the campground is inclusive.

It's important to be aware of the reservation fees ($9.00 non-refundable reservation fee, $9.00 cancellation fee if within 8 days of arrival plus first night's fee if canceling 8 days or less, and $9.00 for changes). For the most current fee schedule and to make reservations, always refer to the official New York State Parks website through Reserve America or contact the campground directly.

Contact Information

For reservations, detailed information, or specific inquiries about Fish Creek Pond Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address:

Project Office Phone: (518) 891-4560

DEC Regional Office Phone: (518) 897-1309

Reservations (Reserve America): 1-800-456-2267 or online via newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com

Email: campinfo@dec.ny.gov

Website (Official DEC Page): dec.ny.gov/places/fish-creek-pond-campground-and-day-use-area

For additional unofficial but helpful information and photos: fishcreekpond.com

Conclusion: Why Fish Creek Pond Campground is Suitable for Locals

For New Yorkers, Fish Creek Pond Campground represents the quintessential Adirondack camping experience, making it an incredibly suitable and popular choice for a local getaway. Its most compelling feature—that "Almost every site is on the water"—provides unparalleled access to Fish Creek Pond and Square Pond, allowing for immediate enjoyment of boating, paddling, and fishing right from your campsite. This is a rare and highly sought-after amenity that appeals deeply to those looking to truly immerse themselves in the Adirondack's aquatic beauty.

While the sites may be "close together" in some areas, this often fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere, as shared by happy campers. The campground's natural setting, with no electric hookups, encourages a more traditional and rustic camping adventure, ideal for those seeking to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with nature. Despite this, essential amenities like "clean bathrooms" with "hot showers" and a trailer dumping station ensure a comfortable stay. The abundance of on-site activities, from extensive hiking and biking trails to a swimming beach and recreational programs, means there's always something to do, catering to active families and individuals alike. Its strategic location within the Adirondack Park also provides easy access to nearby attractions like The Wild Center and Lake Placid, allowing for varied day trips. For New Yorkers eager to experience the majestic Adirondacks in a vibrant, waterfront setting, Fish Creek Pond Campground offers an unforgettable and truly local camping adventure that draws people back "again and again."

Fish Creek Pond Campground

Adirondack Park, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, USA