Fish Creek Pond, Saranac Lake NY
Contact Details
- Address: Fish Creek Pond Campground, State Route 30, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
- Phone: +1 518–891–4560
- Website: https://dec.ny.gov/places/fish-creek-pond-campground-and-day-use-area
Overview
Fish Creek Pond isn’t just another campground — it’s a hidden gem nestled in the Adirondacks, where the water is always within reach and the wilderness feels endless. What makes it special is its layout: nearly every campsite — about 97% of them — sits along a winding five-mile perimeter road, offering direct waterfront access. This road traces the shorelines of interconnected ponds, creating a seamless, immersive outdoor experience. There’s no electricity, so a generator is a must, but the trade-off is unbeatable: you can launch a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak straight from your campsite.
In summer, the lakes transform into a playground. Boaters and water skiers carve across the surface, their wakes rippling through the otherwise serene waters. For those seeking solitude, timing is key — early mornings and off-peak days offer a chance to paddle in peace, gliding along a liquid highway that feels like an adventure rather than confinement to a single pond.
If you prefer quiet over the hum of motorized boats, visit during the shoulder seasons at the beginning or end of the camping season. With parts of the perimeter road often closed, it becomes a peaceful walking trail where only locals and seasoned campers roam. Spring, in particular, is my favorite — when only the brave and experienced set up camp, embracing the crisp air and near-empty shores.
As night falls, the campground settles into a deep stillness. The remoteness becomes tangible, and with all campsites on one side of the road, you never feel packed in. Instead, there’s space to breathe, sit by the fire, and watch the stars reflect off the glassy water.
But, of course, no place is perfect.
The biggest letdown? The bathhouse. Fish Creek Pond shares a bathhouse with a neighboring campground, and it’s notoriously bad. On my last visit, I arrived to find a frustrated woman pacing outside.
“No hot water in the women’s showers,” she sighed.
Her husband was already using the men’s side, so I shrugged. “Look, it’s just me and your husband in there. Just use the men’s shower. No one will know or care.”
She hesitated, so I joked, “If anyone says anything, just say you’re transgender and go right in.” She laughed, walked in, and — luckily for her — the men’s showers were scalding hot. Crisis averted.
Unfortunately, the bathhouse is just the tip of the iceberg. The dump station is minimal, the dishwashing stations are laughable, and the single-lane road can be a nightmare when campers are coming from both directions. Complaints about the park’s infrastructure have been ongoing for years, but somehow, none of that seems to matter when you step out of your tent or RV, take a deep breath of crisp morning air, and launch your boat directly from your site.
Despite its flaws, Fish Creek Pond has an undeniable pull. This year, I managed to snag a prime campsite — water on two sides, neighbors on only one. It took some effort to secure, and honestly, I’m not about to share the site number. Some secrets are worth keeping.
If you go, bring a generator and be ready to rough it a little. But once you’re there, gliding over the water on a paddleboard, the sun dipping behind the treeline, and a campfire crackling at your feet, you’ll understand why people return year after year. Fish Creek Pond isn’t perfect — but it’s unforgettable.
Rating
8 out of 10
History
Fish Creek Pond Campground, in New York’s Adirondack Park, has evolved from a simple open camp into one of the most beloved camping destinations in the region. It all began in 1920 when the Conservation Commission established a lean-to and a few fireplaces.
By 1926, the site had been officially developed with 20 tent sites, sanitary facilities, and a well. In 1927, New York State acquired the land around Fish Creek Pond, incorporated it into Adirondack Park, and expanded the campground to 40 sites. In the next few years, the campground’s popularity soared, doubling in size again by 1928 and reaching 264 sites by 1931, welcoming nearly 46,000 visitors.
During the early 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a key role in further expanding the campground, though their presence ended in 1936 when Camp 8–56 was abandoned. By the 1940s and 1950s, Fish Creek Pond had solidified its reputation as a premier camping destination, with vendors and traditions that created a unique sense of community.
Stand Up Paddleboarding at Fish Creek Pond
What’s Good:
Stunning Scenery:
- Fish Creek Pond is surrounded by lush forests and offers picturesque views of the Adirondacks.
Calm Waters:
- The pond is relatively sheltered, with minimal motorboat traffic, making it ideal for beginners and those seeking a relaxing paddle.
Abundant Wildlife:
- You might spot loons, herons, turtles, and other wildlife along the shoreline.
Convenience:
- Fish Creek Pond Campground offers easy water access, with many campsites right along the shore.
Exploration Opportunities:
- Connected waterways, like Square Pond and Upper Saranac Lake, provide extended routes for those looking for a longer paddle.
What’s Bad:
Crowds in Peak Season:
- Summer weekends can be busy, especially with campers and other water users.
- The increased activity will definitely detract from the serene atmosphere.
Weather Dependency:
- Windy days can make paddling more difficult, even on calmer waters.
- The weather in the Adirondacks can change rapidly, so be prepared.
Insect Presence:
- Mosquitoes and black flies can be a nuisance, especially in late spring and early summer.
Limited Facilities Nearby:
- While the campground is well-equipped, other amenities (like restaurants or gear shops) require a drive.
Things to Consider:
Equipment:
- Bring your own paddleboard or rent from nearby outfitters in Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake.
- Consider a personal flotation device (PFD) for safety.
Timing:
- Visit in early morning or late evening for the most tranquil experience and to avoid motorboat traffic.
- Check the weather forecast, as thunderstorms can roll in unexpectedly.
Skill Level:
- Beginners will appreciate the calm waters, but ensure you’re comfortable steering and balancing in case of mild wind or currents or boat wake.
Respect for Nature:
- Avoid disturbing wildlife, especially nesting loons.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the area pristine.
Permits and Fees:
- If staying overnight at the campground, make reservations in advance as it’s a popular spot.
Seasonal Changes:
- The experience will vary with the season: fall brings stunning foliage, while summer is best for warm-weather paddling.
Camping
Fish Creek Pond Campground, located in Adirondack Park, New York, offers both primitive and car-camping sites, many with direct access to the pond. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit with a grate. There are no electric hookups so you will need to bring a generator if you use electricity. The campground has flush toilets, cold-water showers, and pit toilets in remote areas. A shared shower house located at the nearby Rollins Pond Campground provides tepid showers for campers. Drinking water stations are available throughout the campground.
A boat launch allows access for canoes, kayaks, and motorboats. The campground also features a small beach for swimming and offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Trash disposal and recycling facilities are onsite. Pets must be kept on a leash, and firewood is available for purchase.
For the truly adventurous, a few sites in the campground open in April when there is still snow on the ground. They literally snow plow some sites. Plus, there is an abundance of firewood piled everywhere from the winter clean-up efforts taking place! (Bring a splitting axe).
Campground Details:
Season: early May through Columbus Day
Total number of campsites: 352
Reservable sites: 323
Non-reservable sites: 29
ADA sites: 2
Reservation booking window: 9 months
How difficult is it to get a camping reservation (1=easy, 10=impossible): 8
Fees:
Vehicle use fees
· Day use (peak): $7
Campsite fees
· Camping fee: $22 per night
· Out-of-state surcharge: $5 per night
Things to Check Out Nearby Fish Creek Pond
Adirondack Museum (Lake Placid):
- Located about 20 miles from Fish Creek Pond, this museum offers exhibits on the history, culture, and environment of the Adirondacks, including outdoor activities and Adirondack craftsmanship.
Saranac Lake Village:
- The charming village offers a variety of attractions, including historic sites, shopping, dining, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area and enjoy local culture.
High Falls Gorge (Wilmington):
About a 30-minute drive from Fish Creek Pond, this scenic site features beautiful waterfalls, a suspension bridge, and a walking trail that takes you close to the falls.
Lake Placid Olympic Sites:
- Lake Placid, located around 15 miles from Fish Creek Pond, is home to many Olympic sites from the 1932 and 1980 Winter Games. Tour the Olympic Jumping Complex, the Lake Placid Olympic Center, and the speed skating oval.
The Wild Center (Tupper Lake):
- A natural history museum and wildlife center, about 40 minutes from Fish Creek Pond, offering exhibits on the wildlife and ecosystems of the Adirondacks, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and paddling.
Saranac Lake Chain of Lakes:
- Explore the interconnected lakes near Fish Creek Pond, perfect for boating, fishing, and paddling. This scenic chain provides opportunities for leisurely boat tours and nature exploration.
Mount Marcy:
- The highest peak in New York State, located in the Adirondacks, offers challenging hikes and stunning views for those interested in hiking.
Avalanche Lake:
- A beautiful, remote lake located in the High Peaks Wilderness Area, accessible via a hike from the Adirondack Loj. It’s a popular spot for hiking, photography, and nature walks.
The Adirondack Wildlife Refuge (Rainbow Lake):
- This wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center is located about 20 minutes from Fish Creek Pond and offers guided tours to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
John Brown Farm State Historic Site (Lake Placid):
- Visit the home and burial site of abolitionist John Brown, located just outside Lake Placid. The site offers insight into the life and legacy of this important historical figure.
You just read a chapter from the book:
“Paddle, Camp, Repeat: 10 Campgrounds for Paddleboarding in the Northeast”
Read other chapters from the book:
Cedar Point State Park, Clayton NY
Cumberland Bay State Park, Plattsburgh NY
Grand Isle State Park, Grand Isle VT
Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg NH
Macomb Reservation State Park, Schuyler Falls NY
Moreau Lake State Park, Gansevoort NY
Parc national de la Yamaska, Saint-Paul-de-Vence QC
Parc national du Mont-Orford, Orford QC
Umbagog Lake State Park, Errol NH
