Bear Slide

For those seeking an authentic backcountry experience in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Bear Slide in Lake Luzerne, New York, offers a rare combination of natural wonder and quiet solitude. Known primarily for its unique "natural waterslide" on Buttermilk Brook, this destination has grown from a local secret into a cherished spot for campers who prefer the sounds of rustling leaves and flowing water over the hum of a traditional RV park. Managed as part of the Lake George Wild Forest, Bear Slide provides a rugged, primitive atmosphere that allows New York residents to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the wild beauty of the North Country.

The campground is characterized by its "dispersed" or primitive style. Unlike more commercialized campsites, Bear Slide emphasizes a "Leave No Trace" philosophy, catering to seasoned hikers and families who enjoy a more hands-on approach to the outdoors. Whether you are pitching a tent at a designated site or exploring the more remote backwoods areas, the sense of privacy is a major draw. It is a place where the forest floor is often your only carpet, and the nearby brook provides the soundtrack for your stay, making it a quintessential New York camping destination for those who value nature in its most untouched form.

Location and accessibility are important considerations for anyone planning a trip to Bear Slide. The campground is located at 1368 River Rd, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846, USA. To reach this secluded spot, travelers typically take the Northway (I-87) to Exit 21, following Route 9N toward Lake Luzerne before turning onto the seasonal River Road. It is important to note that the final stretch involves traveling over rocky and unpaved terrain; while many vehicles can make the trip with care, a vehicle with decent clearance is often recommended for the best experience. The road is typically closed during the winter and early spring months to protect the forest environment.

Despite its remote feel, the campground is surprisingly accessible for day-trippers and those with young children. The trailhead for the famous Bear Slide is located just a short walk from the parking area. The trail itself is an easy, 0.8-mile roundtrip hike with minimal elevation gain, making it manageable for little ones and casual walkers. For guests with mobility needs, the area provides wheelchair-accessible parking and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, though the nature of the forest trails remains largely dirt and rock-based. It is a location that feels a world away from the busy streets of Albany or Glens Falls, yet remains within a convenient driving distance for a weekend retreat.

The services offered at Bear Slide reflect its primitive status. You won't find hookups for electricity or water here; instead, the focus is on providing the bare essentials for a wilderness stay. The management, overseen by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), ensures that the fundamental needs for safety and environmental protection are met while maintaining the area’s rugged character.

• Designated primitive tent sites marked with yellow "Camp Here" markers for organized stays.
• Basic public restroom facilities located at the entrance area for camper convenience.
• Professional oversight by local Forest Rangers who patrol the Lake George Wild Forest area.
• Maintenance of the Bear Slide foot trail to ensure a safe and clear path to the waterfalls.
• On-site parking areas designed to accommodate both day hikers and overnight campers.
• Information kiosks providing maps and safety guidelines for the surrounding wild forest.
• Seasonal road maintenance to ensure River Road is passable during the peak summer and autumn months.

The features and highlights of Bear Slide are what truly set it apart from other New York campgrounds. The centerpiece is, of course, the namesake "Bear Slide"—a 50-foot natural waterslide created by Buttermilk Brook as it cascades over smooth, ancient rock formations. This natural attraction provides endless entertainment for children and adults alike, especially during the warm summer months when the shallow pools at the base of the falls are perfect for wading.

• The Bear Slide natural waterslide, a geological wonder perfect for sliding (with plastic trays) and wading.
• Secluded and private campsites that offer a "backwoods" feel without requiring miles of hiking.
• A playground area and family-friendly amenities that make it an excellent choice for introducing kids to camping.
• Excellent hiking opportunities with trails that lead further into the Lake George Wild Forest.
• Abundant wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of local birds, deer, and small forest mammals.
• Exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the remote location and lack of local light pollution.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs on leashes, making it a great spot for the whole family.
• Picnic tables strategically placed near the water for scenic lunches and afternoon snacks.

If you are planning a visit, it is always a good idea to check in with the regional office for the latest updates on trail conditions and camping regulations. Because the area is so remote, cell service is virtually non-existent, so having a physical map and clear directions is essential before you head out.

Address: 1368 River Rd, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846, USA

Phone: (518) 623-1200

Mobile Phone: +1 518-623-1200

What is worth choosing about Bear Slide is the opportunity for a truly restorative experience that doesn't cost a fortune. For many New York locals, the simplicity of the park is its greatest asset. It is worth choosing if you want to teach your children the joys of "real" camping—building a fire (where permitted), exploring the woods, and finding adventure in a natural waterslide rather than a theme park. The proximity to Lake Luzerne and Lake George means you can enjoy the solitude of Bear Slide at night and take a short drive to enjoy shopping, dining, or a rodeo during the day.

Furthermore, the privacy offered at Bear Slide is a significant upgrade from many of the more crowded state campgrounds. Even the designated sites are spaced out to give you a sense of owning your own piece of the forest for the weekend. For hikers and photography enthusiasts, the easy access to Buttermilk Falls and the surrounding trails provides a wealth of natural beauty to capture. If you are looking for a place that is close enough to be convenient but remote enough to feel like a true escape, Bear Slide stands as one of the best-kept secrets in the Lake Luzerne region.