Paradox Lake Campground
00 review897 Rt. 74, Paradox, New York, 12858, United States
Paradox Lake Campground
$6.00 - $6.00 / 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
Day use fee is $6 per vehicle, as indicated by user reviews for the day-use area.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Dark Bay, Paradox Lake Campground offers an enchanting escape into the heart of the Adirondacks. Wake up to the gentle lapping of lake waters and spend your days exploring pristine wilderness from this well-appointed basecamp. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with natural beauty here, where hot showers, flush toilets, and convenient recycling facilities ensure a comfortable stay. Rent a canoe or boat directly from the campground to explore the shimmering waters, or simply relax at your tent site surrounded by towering trees. While the intimate, winding roads create a cozy atmosphere perfect for tent camping, larger RVs may find the narrow passages challenging to navigate.
Paradox Lake Campground offers a variety of campsite types, including options for tents and RVs. Group sites are not specifically mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with easy access to two of America's most significant Revolutionary War sites. The mighty Fort Ticonderoga, once called the 'Key to the Continent,' stands as a testament to colonial ambition and military strategy. Nearby Crown Point Historic Site reveals layers of French, British, and American history through its preserved ruins and interpretive exhibits. These storied landmarks offer fascinating day trips where you can walk in the footsteps of soldiers and settlers who shaped our nation's destiny.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Adirondacks at Paradox Lake. Summer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for paddling across glassy waters and hiking forest trails dappled with golden light. As autumn approaches, the surrounding hardwoods burst into a spectacular display of crimson and gold. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where snow blankets the frozen lake and creates a hushed, magical atmosphere. Each season offers its own unique adventures and breathtaking beauty.
ElevationInformation not available
Natural Features and SceneryParadox Lake Campground sits at the gateway to extraordinary natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters of Paradox Lake stretch before you, reflecting the rolling hardwood hills that embrace the shoreline in shades of green and gold. Just beyond, the untamed Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area beckons adventurers with its network of pristine ponds, hidden waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails through ancient forests. This stunning tapestry of water and woodland creates endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and soul-stirring moments of natural wonder.
Geological RegionDiscover camping in the heart of the legendary Adirondack region, where ancient mountains have been sculpted by time into gentle, rolling hills cloaked in magnificent hardwood forests. This unique geological wonderland features countless lakes and ponds carved by glaciers, creating a water-rich paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding wilderness areas preserve millions of acres of this extraordinary landscape, offering visitors a chance to experience one of the East Coast's last great wild places, where the bedrock tells stories millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground mentions having handicap access and accessible sites.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate up to 6 people and 2 tents or 1 unit of hard-wheeled camping equipment and 1 tent. Site lengths vary, with some allowing up to 40 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are noted to be semi-private and well-spaced. "Nice sites, semi-private," mentioned a user. Another stated, "Sites are well spread out."
Total Campsites58 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the lake or those with lake views for improved scenery and accessibility to water activities.
Best CampsitesSites with trails directly to the lake were highly praised in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
Check-out
10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 cumulative nights permitted between July 1 and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 6 individuals per campsite.
Groups
No specific information on group sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are semi-private and spread out, offering quiet weekdays as noted in reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally; specific dates not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReserveAmerica website.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome user reviews indicated availability issues with walk-in sites, especially during peak season. Management policies may favor reservations over walk-ins.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be booked through Reserve America before 3 PM for same-day reservations. Walk-in policies are unclear based on user reviews.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Paradox Lake Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its range of recreational activities. Boating, fishing, and hiking are particularly popular. The trails provide access to ponds and summits with rewarding views.
Hiking
The campground offers superb hiking opportunities, with trails leading to Crane, Oxshoe, Crab, Putnam, and Horseshoe Ponds, as well as Pharaoh Lake and Pharaoh Mountain. "The view from the summit of Pharaoh Mountain is worth the climb!" according to the official description.Fishing
Fishing at Paradox Lake is popular, with one user noting, "Great camping, awesome fishing."Swimming
Swimming is allowed at supervised beach areas during designated hours when lifeguards are on duty. However, beaches are closed if lifeguards are unavailable.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, kayaking, and powerboating. Canoes and rowboats are available for rent. "Kayaking on the lake is awesome," mentioned a reviewer. "A little island to explore and hiking trail to a summit right off the water" added another.Beach activities
Beaches are available for swimming and sunbathing, though one review mentioned the lack of a lifeguard.Winter Activities
No information about winter activities is provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available. "Fantastic place! Boat launch, beach (no lifeguard), great campsites," shared one reviewer.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be built in designated fireplaces using dead and down wood only.
- Quiet hours are From 10:00 PM until 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks have been mentioned in user reviews as a hazard. Narrow roads may pose a challenge for RVs.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Within 10 miles: hospital, ranger station, and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingThe campground has a central recycling area for refuse disposal. Garbage must be taken to a central area at designated times for processing, and clear plastic bags are required.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Paradox Lake. Boating, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities.
Common complaintsManagement policies regarding walk-ins have been criticized. Some reviews mentioned rude behavior from certain staff members.
HostHosts are noted as polite and accommodating in some reviews, though specific names like 'Linda' were mentioned.
Campground Map
897 Rt. 74, Paradox, New York, 12858, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-87, take Exit 28, then Rte 74 east approximately 4 miles to Paradox Lake.
The campground is accessible via Route 74, which is a paved road. There are no seasonal closures mentioned, but it is noted in user reviews that roads within the campground are narrow and may not be suitable for RVs.Nearby places
Ticonderoga (7 miles), Crown Point (10 miles), Schroon Lake (10 miles), Lake George (40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: convenience stores, shopping, restaurants, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Paradox Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users describe Paradox Lake Campground as a quiet, clean, and well-maintained facility. The lake is a highlight for activities like kayaking and boating. Some concerns included occasional rude staff behavior and unclean bathrooms.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praised the friendly staff, clean facilities, spacious campsites, and good fishing and boating opportunities. "Staff were very helpful and friendly," and "the lake was exactly what we were...
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Common Concerns
Complaints focused on rude caretakers, unavailability of reservations despite empty campsites, and partially cleaned bathrooms. "Bathrooms were only ever partially cleaned and quite small," and...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing proof of rabies vaccination for pets, avoiding peak times for better privacy, and preparing for ticks. "If you’re lucky, there are some waterfront spots as well," one user...
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Seasonal Insights
During summer, the campground is described as peaceful with few mosquitoes. "Quiet during the week," and "very peaceful and quiet," were noted during peak season. However, some noise from Route 74...
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Camper Quotes
"Amazing campground, clean and quiet," "Showers were always warm but small stalls and still a bit dirty," "Sites are well spread out," and "Kayaking on the lake is awesome," are some direct user...
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Site-Specific Reviews
One user mentioned having the perfect site with their own trail to the lake, while another noted, "Fireplaces were a little narrow but well built." Specific site numbers are not cited.
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are available and must be occupied by at least one mobility-impaired individual. "Handicap access" was noted as an amenity.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with proof of a valid rabies vaccination. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and cannot be left unattended. "Dog barks now and then but very peaceful" was a pet-related...
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Last updated August 10, 2025