Primitive/Backcountry Camping
Sleeping in the Adirondack Wild
There are one million acres of woods, mountains and waters open for public recreation in Hamilton County -- the epicenter of the Adirondack Park. Primitive camping is allowed on public lands at campsites designated with a yellow "Camp Here" disk or anywhere that is at least 150 feet from any trail, body of water or roadway.
The "150 Feet Rule" makes it sound as if you could camp anywhere, but there are also rules against cutting live trees and shrubs, and since live trees and shrubs grow in dense profusion, finding suitable campsites can be a challenge for two-person or larger tents.
Some designated primitive campsites feature lean-to's. These three-sided structures are an Adirondack invention. They are pleasant on rainy evenings, but open to mosquitos, mice and raccoons. Carrying a tent is always advised, since lean-tos may be filled. Lean-to's cannot be reserved. They are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. And lean-to's are egalitarian. You must share with other campers, up to the structure's capacity (it varies).
Read the Backcountry Regulations and Safety Tips carefully and understand that weather in the region changes rapidly. Always carry rain gear and don't count on your cell phone working, even on the summit of a mountain. Hamilton County has very few cell phone towers. Also check out tips for enjoying (and not tangling with) wildlife.
After all, this is the Adirondack Wild.
Camping Requirements:
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