How much does camping cost at Meacham Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Meacham Lake Campground range from $20-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Meacham Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Meacham Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Meacham Lake Campground?

Meacham Lake Campground is open From July 1 through Labor Day.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Meacham Lake Campground?

Yes, Meacham Lake Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Meacham Lake Campground have?

Meacham Lake Campground has 223 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Meacham Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Meacham Lake Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Meacham Lake Campground?

Meacham Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Meacham Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Meacham Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Meacham Lake Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Meacham Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Meacham Lake Campground: Fires must be built only in provided fireplaces. Chain saws and cutting down trees are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.47

102 reviews

119 State Camp Road, Duane, New York, 12953, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping New York Swimming Camping New York Summer Camping New York +3 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,568 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Status: Open through...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on New York State Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,568 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Status: Open through...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on New York State Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Meacham Lake Campground

$20.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the type of site. Premium sites, waterfront sites, and group sites may incur higher charges.

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Premium Site Fee$35.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00

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5184835116

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Campground Map

119 State Camp Road, Duane, New York, 12953, United States

Meacham Lake Campground

119 State Camp Road, Duane, New York, 12953, United States

Nearby places

Duane (0 miles), Paul Smiths (approximately 9.5 miles), Malone (approximately 40 miles), Tupper Lake (approximately 40 miles)

Nearby supplies

Approximately 30 minutes away from grocery stores/fuel stations, located either north or south of the campground. Basic supplies such as firewood and ice are sold at the campground entrance.

Driving directionsFrom the Northway (I-87), northbound: Take Exit 30, Route 9 North to Route 73 North (to Lake Placid). Take Route 86 through Lake Placid and Saranac Lake to Paul Smiths; turn right on Route 30 North and drive approximately 9.5 miles to the park. From the Northway (I-87), southbound: Take Exit 38, Route 374 West to Route 3. Turn right on Franklin County Road 30 to Route 86; turn right to go to Paul Smiths. Turn right on Route 30 North and drive approximately 9.5 miles to the park. From Tupper Lake: Take Route 30 North approximately 40 miles.

Accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures due to snow and adverse weather may affect usability in winter months.

Weather at Meacham Lake Campground

Current alert: No official alerts provided but user reviews mention issues with noisy campers and generator disturbances.

Best Time to Camp at Meacham Lake Campground

Summer delivers the best conditions: mid-70s to mid-80s during the day, dropping to the 40s and 50s at night. Swimming, paddling, and hiking peak during these months when the full campground and lake are accessible. Autumn brings vivid foliage displays through the surrounding hardwoods. Winter closes most operations due to heavy snow and freezing temperatures, though the landscape transforms into snow-covered terrain for those who venture in.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open Jul 1–Labor Day; peak activities, warm days and highest user satisfaction in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: From July 1 through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Status: Open through Sun Oct 11 2026 Season Dates Season Schedule Park Season Start End Core Fri May 15 2026 Tue Jun 30 2026 Peak Wed Jul 01 2026 Sun Sep 06 2026 Non Peak Mon Sep 07 2026 Sun Oct 11 2026 Core Fri May 14 2027 Wed Jun 30 2027

About Meacham Lake Campground

Meacham Lake Campground sits at 1,568 feet elevation as the only development on a 1,203-acre lake in the northern Adirondacks. With 223 sites spread across east and west sections, it offers access to swimming, paddling, and Wild Forest trails. Sites range from $20-$35 per night with no electric hookups.

Meacham Lake Campground primarily offers standard tent and RV camping sites, with some group sites available. No electric hookups are provided, and the campground is described as rustic and serene.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the best conditions: mid-70s to mid-80s during the day, dropping to the 40s and 50s at night. Swimming, paddling, and hiking peak during these months when the full campground and lake are accessible. Autumn brings vivid foliage displays through the surrounding hardwoods. Winter closes most operations due to heavy snow and freezing temperatures, though the landscape transforms into snow-covered terrain for those who venture in.

ElevationFrom your campsite at Meacham Lake, gaze up at the majestic peaks of the northern Adirondacks rising like ancient sentinels around the water. The campground's position offers stunning vantage points of these mountain giants, creating a natural amphitheater that frames unforgettable sunrises and sunsets over the rugged landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies shoreline along Meacham Lake's 1,203 undeveloped acres, surrounded by Wild Forest state lands of towering pines and hardwoods. Hidden coves and quiet beaches dot the shoreline. Loons call across the water at dawn and dusk. The lake's clarity draws swimmers and paddlers, while the protected forest backdrop creates a sense of true remoteness. Mountain vistas appear through the trees, and the single-development status means you won't see houses or docks across the water.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the northern Adirondacks at Meacham Lake, where ancient mountains and vast Wild Forest lands create a landscape virtually unchanged since the last ice age. As the sole development on this massive alpine lake, the campground serves as your gateway to exploring one of New York's last great wildernesses, where geological wonders and pristine ecosystems converge in spectacular fashion.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of the Adirondack mountains and the undeveloped Meacham Lake available from premium and waterfront campsites.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available; accommodations are limited to campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesFrom late June to Labor Day, the campground offers organized activities such as nature hikes, crafts, and live entertainment.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

From 2:00 PM until 9:00 PM.

Check-out

10:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limited to 6 individuals per campsite and 2 tents or 1 unit of hard-wheeled camping equipment and 1 tent.

Groups

Group sites accommodate up to 12 people and are designed for larger gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are divided into multiple loops numbered 001 through 223. The west section has tent platforms and more spacing between sites. Maximum RV lengths vary from 0 to 40 feet depending on the specific site. The east side sits closer to bathhouses and the beach.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through official state campground websites and by phone. Specific URLs or apps not provided.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available, but availability is limited during peak seasons. First-come, first-serve policies apply.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must occur before midnight on the first night of the reservation to avoid loss of all fees. Specific refund policy details not provided.

AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, but one member of the camping party must be mobility-impaired to book these sites.

Site SizeCampsites accommodate a range of equipment with maximum lengths varying from 0 to 40 feet across different sites.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by location. The west side is noted for being quieter and more secluded, while the east side is more accessible and closer to facilities.

Total Campsites223 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose East Side sites for proximity to shower and flush bathroom facilities. West Side offers quieter camping with tent platforms ideal for wet seasons.

Best CampsitesEast Side waterfront sites offer the best lake views and easier access to facilities. West Side sites provide quieter, more secluded camping with tent platforms. Reviews consistently recommend the west section if you're prioritizing solitude over convenience.

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Amenities available

Meacham Lake Campground provides a wide range of amenities to cater to campers, including hot showers, flush toilets, a dump station, firewood and ice sales, a playground, and a spacious picnic area. The campground also has an amphitheater, basketball court, boat rentals, and a well-maintained beach. A recycling center is available for waste disposal but requires adherence to strict guidelines such as the use of clear plastic bags. User reviews highlight some concerns, such as outdated and poorly maintained facilities in certain areas, but overall, many describe the campground as clean and functional.

Showers

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, and organized programs in the summer. The beach and picnic areas are popular spots for families.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and blackflies are common during summer months. Some sites may be boggy in wet seasons. Wildlife encounters with loons and other animals possible.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers available as part of the amenities, essential for camping in bear country.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires must be built only in provided fireplaces. Chain saws and cutting down trees are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are From 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesHospital within 10 miles (specific location details unavailable). Emergency services also reachable at Paul Smiths College (approximately 9.5 miles south). Additional ranger station contact available.

Trash & RecyclingGarbage must be taken to a central recycling area at designated times. Clear plastic bags are required.

Water FeaturesLocated directly on Meacham Lake with access to swimming, fishing, and boating.

Camp HostHosts available to assist campers, and one mentioned as very responsive to complaints in user reviews. Contact information not specified.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

102 reviews

Recommended

Meacham Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is widely praised for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and friendly staff. However, some users have reported issues with noise during quiet hours, outdated facilities, and biting flies.

Review Summaries

Based on 102 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praised the scenic views, clean lake, and friendly staff. One user noted, 'The cleanest bathrooms and facilities for a campground I have ever seen.'

Based on 102 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include noise issues during quiet hours, poor maintenance of some facilities, biting flies, and the lack of cell service.

Based on 102 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Sites near 184-187 on the west side are darker and more secluded. - The east side is closer to facilities and popular with families.

Based on 102 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray, a generator (as there are no electric hookups), and adhere to the recycling requirements. Consider the west side for a quieter experience.

Based on 102 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with many activities and good weather. However, flies can be an issue during warmer months.

Based on 102 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Meacham Lake Campground was awesome! What made it extra special was the service we received from Bruce Lepage and his team.' - 'The RV side of the lake is SO noisy, it made tent camping...

Based on 102 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites are available, but some users expressed concern over the lack of well-maintained pathways.

Based on 102 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed with proof of vaccination. Users appreciated the pet-friendly policy but reminded others to keep dogs on leashes.

Based on 102 reviews

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Go if

Paddlers, swimmers, and anyone fishing a clean Adirondack lake will find this hard to beat. West-side sites 184-187 are darker, more spaced out, and away from the family beach traffic. At $20-$35 with boat rentals on-site, the value holds up.

Skip if

No cell service at all, and the nearest signal is a 20-minute drive to Paul Smiths. If that breaks a trip for you, plan accordingly. Biting flies and mosquitoes are real in summer, and quiet hours enforcement is inconsistent enough that noisy neighbors are a legitimate risk.

Nearby Campgrounds

1339 County Route 60, ONCHIOTA, New York, 12989, United States

Buck Pond Campground sits on 114 sites between Lake Kushaqua and Buck Pond in the Adirondacks, about 15 miles from Lake Placid. Sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 40 feet, with nightly rates at $20. Reservations are recommended for waterfront spots, which fill quickly during fall foliage season.