Limekiln State Campground

For those of us living in the hustle and bustle of New York, finding a true escape into the wilderness is a seasonal necessity. Tucked away in the scenic Adirondack Mountains, Limekiln State Campground offers a quintessential New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) camping experience. Located near the charming town of Old Forge, this destination serves as a perfect sanctuary for families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts looking to swap city sounds for the rustle of leaves and the gentle lap of lake water. Whether you are a seasoned outdoorsman or a family looking for your first camping trip, Limekiln provides a rugged yet accessible environment to reconnect with the natural beauty of our state.

Limekiln State Campground is situated on the shores of the stunning Limekiln Lake, a 450-acre body of water that remains the heart of the facility. The campground is well-regarded for its traditional atmosphere, offering a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up visiting state parks. While it maintains an older, rustic charm, the grounds are meticulously cared for by dedicated staff, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and safe. The surrounding forest is dense and vibrant, providing plenty of shade and a sense of privacy that can be hard to find at more modern, commercialized campsites.

Accessibility is a key priority at Limekiln State Campground, making it an inclusive destination for all New Yorkers. The facility ensures that the beauty of the Adirondacks is available to everyone, regardless of physical mobility. Visitors will find thoughtfully designed infrastructure to accommodate various needs, allowing the whole family to enjoy the great outdoors together. From the moment you pull off Campsite Road, the layout of the park is designed to be navigable, though the natural terrain maintains its authentic mountain character.

Located in Old Forge, the campground is easily accessible for those traveling from across the state. It is a manageable drive for a long weekend getaway or a more extended summer vacation. The proximity to the town of Old Forge means that while you are immersed in nature, you are never too far from local conveniences, shops, and additional Adirondack attractions. This balance of remote wilderness feel and local accessibility makes it one of the most popular choices for regional travelers.

• Tent site rentals for traditional camping experiences.
• Dedicated hiking areas with trails suitable for various skill levels.
• Comprehensive picnic facilities for day-use visitors and campers.
• Public restroom facilities located conveniently throughout the grounds.
• Public shower buildings featuring hot water for guest comfort.
• Running water access points for cooking and cleaning.
• On-site parking for easy vehicle access to campsites and day-use areas.
• Safety-focused storage solutions, including bear boxes provided at each site.
• Waste management services to keep the natural environment pristine.

The highlights of Limekiln State Campground revolve around its stunning natural features and family-oriented environment. The lake itself is the primary draw, offering incredible opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and laying on the beach. Because the lake does not have lifeguards, it offers a more tranquil and self-directed experience for swimmers and paddlers. The lack of heavy motorized traffic on the water further enhances the peace and quiet that visitors have come to expect from this specific location.

Wildlife encounters are a genuine part of the experience here. Being deep in the Adirondacks, visitors frequently see various bird species and, notably, black bears. The campground is proactive about safety, requiring all guests to utilize the provided bear boxes for food storage. This creates a unique educational opportunity for children to learn about wildlife conservation and responsible camping practices. Furthermore, the pet-friendly policy allows you to bring your furry friends along, provided you have the necessary documentation, ensuring no member of the family is left behind.

• Beautiful lakeside views and direct water access for recreation.
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and designated parking areas.
• Kid-friendly hiking trails that are perfect for younger explorers.
• Dog-friendly environment (valid rabies certificate required).
• Kayaking and canoeing opportunities on the serene Limekiln Lake.
• Reliable ATT cell reception for those who need to stay connected.
• Scenic picnic areas located on the hill overlooking the beach.
• Professional on-site caretakers known for being friendly and helpful.
• Authentic Adirondack forest setting with dense tree cover.

If you are planning your visit or need to inquire about site availability, you can reach the campground directly. It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during the peak summer months, to confirm site dimensions if you are bringing a larger camping trailer, as some of the interior roads can be narrow and tight for oversized vehicles.

Address: Campsite Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

Phone: (315) 357-4401

Mobile Phone: +1 315-357-4401

What makes Limekiln State Campground worth choosing over other regional options is its perfect blend of "old school" camping and essential modern amenities. While many newer campgrounds feel like parking lots, Limekiln retains the deep-woods feel that New Yorkers crave when they head upstate. The inclusion of hot showers and running water ensures that you don't have to sacrifice basic hygiene for a wilderness experience. It is a place where you can truly unplug—especially since many cellular carriers other than ATT have limited service here—allowing for a genuine break from the digital world.

The community atmosphere is another reason to choose this site. Frequent visitors often comment on the friendliness of fellow campers and the helpful nature of the staff. It is a place where neighbors look out for one another, sharing tips on the best hiking spots or help with a stubborn tent pole. For families with children, the "kid-friendly" nature of the hikes and the safety of the well-marked trails make it a top-tier choice for introducing the next generation to the joys of the New York State park system.

Finally, the value of the location cannot be overstated. Being in the Old Forge region gives you a central hub for all things Adirondack. Whether you spend your entire trip within the campground boundaries enjoying the beach and the bear sightings, or use it as a base camp to explore the wider Fulton Chain of Lakes, Limekiln provides a high-quality, authentic, and affordable outdoor experience. It represents the best of New York’s natural heritage, preserved for us to enjoy every season.