Fox Lair Campsites

For New Yorkers seeking an authentic, unfiltered encounter with the Adirondack wilderness, Fox Lair Campsites in Johnsburg offers a departure from the manicured lawns of commercial RV parks. This location is part of the legendary "Foxlair" estate history, a once-grand private fiefdom that has since been reclaimed by the New York State Forest Preserve. Today, it serves as a collection of dispersed, primitive campsites that appeal to the "true" camper—those who value solitude, starry skies, and the sound of the wind through the conifers over modern amenities. Located in the town of Johnsburg near the hamlet of Bakers Mills, these sites provide a raw and rugged home base for exploring one of the most beautiful corridors in the North Country.

The name "Fox Lair" carries a rich local legacy. In the early 20th century, it was the site of an opulent French Chateau-style mansion owned by perfume tycoon Richard Hudnut. While the "Big House" and its elaborate gardens were removed by the state in the 1970s to return the land to its wild state, the area remains a hauntingly beautiful place to pitch a tent. From the perspective of a local user, Fox Lair represents the spirit of the "forever wild" Adirondacks. It is a place where you can find elevated sites on grassy hilltops that offer panoramic mountain views, or secluded spots tucked away near the East Branch of the Sacandaga River. It is a destination specifically sought out by star-gazers and backcountry hikers who want to be as close to nature as possible.

Location and accessibility are unique at Fox Lair. The campsites are located along a stretch of New York State Route 8 in Johnsburg, NY 12843. This is a primary east-west artery through the southern Adirondacks, making the area accessible for those driving up from the Albany or Glens Falls regions. Unlike a traditional campground with a central gate, these are dispersed roadside sites marked by yellow "Camp Here" discs. While the drive-in nature of these spots makes them convenient for those with standard passenger vehicles, the sites themselves often require a bit of a keen eye to spot from the highway. Visitors typically park in designated pull-offs and may have a short walk to reach their specific fire ring. The terrain varies; some sites are level and grassy, while others are situated on small hills that provide a sense of detachment from the road.

The services offered at Fox Lair Campsites are minimal by design, emphasizing a primitive and self-sufficient camping experience. This is not a facility with electrical hookups, camp stores, or paved pads. Instead, it provides the fundamental structure required for legal camping within the New York State Forest Preserve. Because these are dispersed sites, campers must be prepared to follow "Leave No Trace" principles strictly. There is no central management office on-site, though New York State Forest Rangers regularly patrol the area to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations. For those who enjoy the challenge of "dry camping" or "boondocking," Fox Lair offers the perfect environment to test your skills and enjoy the Adirondack landscape without the distractions of modern technology.

• Designated primitive tent sites marked with official New York State "Camp Here" yellow discs.
• Basic fire rings provided at most established sites to facilitate safe campfires.
• Access to a shared pit toilet (outhouse) in certain concentrated areas of the Fox Lair tract.
• Proximity to the East Branch of the Sacandaga River for non-potable water access (must be filtered or treated).
• Information on local trailheads and wilderness regulations often available at nearby DEC kiosks.
• Convenient roadside parking pull-offs that accommodate standard vehicles and small camper vans.
• Seasonal access for hunting and fishing, regulated by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation guidelines.

The features and highlights of Fox Lair are centered on its unparalleled access to the Siamese Ponds Wilderness and the historical intrigue of the surrounding land. One of the most significant highlights is the hilltop site, which is widely regarded by locals as one of the best spots in the county for astronomical viewing due to the lack of light pollution. Furthermore, the proximity to the Eleventh Mountain trailhead allows hikers to embark on ambitious day-trips or multi-day backpacking loops through the heart of the wilderness area. For those interested in local history, exploring the wooded remnants of the former Hudnut estate—where stone foundations and overgrown staircases still hide among the trees—adds a layer of discovery to every stay.

• Prime "Star Gazer" sites located on elevated grassy hills with unobstructed views of the night sky.
• Direct access to the East Branch of the Sacandaga River, perfect for fishing or wading during the summer months.
• Immediate proximity to the Siamese Ponds Wilderness trailhead, offering over 11 miles of hiking to secluded interior ponds.
• Historical site exploration, allowing visitors to find the ruins of the original "Great Camp Foxlair."
• A pet-friendly environment where dogs can enjoy the woods alongside their owners (leash laws apply).
• Abundant wildlife, with frequent sightings of deer, owls, and the occasional black bear or moose.
• Secluded site spacing that offers significantly more privacy than a traditional commercial campground.

Because Fox Lair consists of dispersed sites on state land, there is no formal reservation system or front desk. Campers are encouraged to arrive early, especially on summer weekends, to claim a spot. If you require specific information about current conditions, fire bans, or trail closures, it is recommended to contact the regional Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) office that oversees the Johnsburg and Bakers Mills area.

Address: Johnsburg, NY 12843, USA (Sites are primarily located along State Route 8, near the intersection with Edwards Hill Road).

Phone: For information on state-managed dispersed sites, contact the DEC Region 5 Office: (518) 897-1200.

What is worth choosing about Fox Lair Campsites is the freedom and peace it provides for those who truly love the Adirondack forest. It is worth choosing because it represents a "no-frills" connection to the land that is becoming harder to find. For a New Yorker looking to escape the crowded tourist hubs of Lake George or Old Forge, Fox Lair offers a quiet alternative where the main attraction is the environment itself. Choosing a site here means choosing to wake up to the sound of the river and the scent of wild balsam, with the entire Siamese Ponds Wilderness as your backyard. It is an ideal choice for the adventurous solo traveler, the dedicated hiker, or the family looking to teach their children the value of primitive living and respect for the natural world. In a state full of high-end resorts, Fox Lair remains a testament to the rugged, untamed beauty of the North Country.