Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
New York
11

New York State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
New York
Central Leatherstocking Region
Adirondack State Park
start slideshow
Adirondack State Park Mountains To The Eye Can See © Janara Hoppock
On our way up to White Face Mountain in the Adirondacks in New York.
Adirondack State Park © Ben Prepelka
Adirondack State Park © Ben Prepelka
Adirondack State Park Sailing in Catskill Bay © Marianne Valenti Kuhn
Adirondack State Park © Luca Renoldi
Adirondack State Park © Josselyne Klecanda
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
ADIRONDACK STATE PARK
ADIRONDACK STATE PARK
The Adirondack State Park, located in upstate New York, is a breathtaking natural wonder that encompasses over six million acres of pristine wilderness. With its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, dense forests teeming with diverse wildlife species, and charming small towns nestled within its boundaries; the park offers an unparalleled outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts. From hiking through rugged trails to canoeing along tranquil waterways or simply immersing oneself in the serenity of this vast expanse of untouched beauty - Adirondack State Park truly captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation alike.
History of the Area
Adirondack State Park, located in northeastern New York, is the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century when concerns about deforestation and overuse of natural resources led to a movement for conservation.

1. Early Conservation Efforts: In 1864, William James Stillman published an article titled "The Adirondacks" that highlighted environmental degradation caused by logging operations and unregulated hunting practices. This publication sparked public interest in preserving this region's wilderness.

2. Creation of Forest Preserve: Responding to growing concerns, New York Governor David B. Hill signed legislation on May 15, 1885 establishing the Adirondack Forest Preserve - initially encompassing approximately two million acres (8,100 km2). The preserve was intended as a state-owned land where timber cutting would be regulated or prohibited altogether.

3. Formation of Adirondack Park Agency (APA): To manage development within the park boundaries effectively while balancing ecological preservation with economic growth needs; APA was established through legislation passed in July 1971 under Governor Nelson A Rockefeller Jr.'s administration.

4. Expansion & Classification System: Over time since its creation until today's date - more than twenty times larger at around six million acres (24k+ sq.km) - it has been expanded via various additions from private lands purchases or donations.
Swimming
1. Adirondack State Park offers numerous lakes and ponds for swimming, including Lake Placid and Mirror Lake.
2. The park also has several designated swim areas with lifeguards during summer months.
3. For a more secluded experience, try the backcountry ponds accessible by hiking trails.
4. Some campgrounds within the park provide beach access to guests for swimming activities.
5. Canoeing or kayaking can lead you to remote spots perfect for private swims in pristine waters.

6. Million Dollar Beach on Lake George is another popular spot featuring picnic facilities alongside its sandy shores.

7. Swimming at Lower Cascade Lakes comes with stunning mountain views as backdrop.

8. Raquette lake's Golden Beach Campground provides an expansive sand beach ideal for family outings involving water play.


9. Be aware that some bodies of water may have restrictions due to environmental protection efforts.



10. Always check local regulations before planning your swim outing in any part of Adirondack State Park.




Boating
There are numerous boating options available in this expansive park. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking or motorboating on the vast network of lakes and rivers within its boundaries. There's also white-water rafting for thrill-seekers, with guided tours offered by several companies operating in the area. For a more leisurely experience, paddleboat rentals are an option at some locations as well. Fishing boats are another popular choice among visitors due to abundant fishing opportunities throughout the region.
Fishing
Adirondack State Park in New York offers a wide range of fishing options for both novice and experienced anglers. The park is home to over 3,000 lakes and ponds as well as numerous rivers and streams that are teeming with various species of fish.

One can expect to catch Brook Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout which thrive in the cold waters here. There's also an abundance of Bass (both Smallmouth & Largemouth), Northern Pike, Walleye found especially within warmer water bodies like Saranac Lakes or Tupper Lake.

Ice fishing during winter months is popular on many Adirondacks' frozen lakes where you might reel up Yellow Perch or Sunfish too. Fly-fishing enthusiasts will enjoy casting their lines into Ausable River known for its excellent trout population while lake fishermen may prefer larger bodies such as Indian Lake stocked annually with walleyes by DEC.

Remember all state regulations apply including acquiring appropriate licenses before heading out onto these pristine waters!


Location
Adirondack State Park is located near Gloversville, Johnstown

Picnicking
1. Picnic Areas: The park has numerous designated picnic areas with tables and grills where you can enjoy your meal amidst nature.

2. Beachside Picnics: Some parts of the Adirondacks have beautiful beaches by lakes, such as Lake George or Mirror Lake, which make perfect spots for beachside picnics.

3. Island Picnickers: For those who prefer solitude while eating outdoors, there's an option to rent a canoe or kayak and paddle out to one of the many islands on Lower Saranac Lake or other bodies of water within the park boundaries that allow island camping/picnicking.

4. Mountain Top Dining: If you're up for adventure, pack your lunch in a backpack and hike up any number of trails leading to mountain peaks like Mount Marcy (the highest peak) from where you can eat while enjoying panoramic views around.

5. Pavilion Rentals: There are also pavilions available at certain locations throughout the state park that may be rented ahead through reservation system, ideal if planning large group outings.

6. Wildlife Viewing: Many picnic sites offer opportunities not just scenic beauty but wildlife viewing too - deer, birds etc making it more enjoyable experience.

7. Fishing Spots: You could combine fishing trip with picnic - several places near rivers /lakes provide both facilities together.
Bicycling
In the vast wilderness of upstate New York, numerous bicycling options await. However, caution is advised.

Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore over 2,000 miles of trails that crisscross through dense forests and around pristine lakes.

For a more relaxed ride, try one of many scenic road routes offering breathtaking views but remember to stay alert for traffic.

The park's terrain varies greatly from flat paths suitable for beginners to challenging mountainous tracks designed for experienced riders only.

Always wear appropriate safety gear including helmets when cycling in this area due to unpredictable conditions on some trails or roads.

Biking during winter months requires extra precautions such as using studded tires and wearing warm clothing layers against harsh weather elements.

Check local regulations before embarking on your journey since certain areas may prohibit bikes altogether at specific times throughout the year.

Lastly always respect nature by sticking strictly within designated bike lanes or pathways while enjoying these beautiful surroundings safely.
Birding
Adirondack State Park in New York offers a variety of birding options for enthusiasts. The park is home to over 200 species, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush and Spruce Grouse.

One popular spot within the park is Bloomingdale Bog, where visitors can see boreal birds such as Gray Jays and Black-backed Woodpeckers. Another notable location is Ferd's Bog which provides an opportunity to observe Yellow-bellied Flycatcher or Lincoln Sparrow among others.

The Adirondacks also offer several Bird Conservation Areas like Lake Champlain Islands Complex known for its waterfowl population; Franklin Mountain Hawk Watch ideal during migration seasons; Silver Lake Wilderness Area with diverse habitats attracting various bird species etc.

Birdwatchers may choose guided tours offered by local organizations that provide expert knowledge on best spots & times along with identification assistance. Alternatively, they could explore independently using trail maps available at visitor centers detailing different routes based on difficulty levels & specific interests (like wetland birds or forest dwellers).

In addition to year-round opportunities, special events are held annually like "Warblers Weekend" every May focusing specifically on warbler varieties migrating through this region.

Remember though - while enjoying these feathered creatures' beauty do respect their natural habitat ensuring minimal disturbance so future generations too get similar experiences!

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground
161 County Highway 114
St. Johnsville, NY
Pine Lake Campground & RV Park
136 Timberline Lane
Caroga Lake, NY
518-835-4930
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Mohawk Valley Sporting Goods
7 N Division St
St Johnsville, NY
(518) 568-5029
Area Cabins and Lodges
Adirondack Center
212 Hart Rd
St Johnsville, NY
(518) 762-2344
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I-87 N (also known as the Northway) towards Albany.
2. Continue driving for approximately 200 miles until you reach Exit 30 in Schroon Lake.
3. Take Exit 30 and merge onto NY-9 toward Keene Valley/Keeseville/Willsboro.
4. Follow NY-9N for about 20 miles until you reach Elizabethtown, where you'll need to make a slight left turn onto US Route 9W/NY Route73 W/Main St.
5. Stay on this road for around another mile before making a right turn onto County Road11/McKenzie Pond Rd/Schroon River Rd/Tahawus Rd - continue following signs for Tahawus/Newcomb/Rt28N/Lake Placid/Olympic Center if needed.

state route ranger badge
New York
11

New York State Parks

X