Limekiln State Campground

Limekiln Lake Campground is a premier outdoor destination located in the central Adirondack Mountains, offering an authentic wilderness experience for New York residents and visitors alike. Nestled on the shores of the 450-acre Limekiln Lake, this facility provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The campground is well-known for its lush, wooded environment and its ability to accommodate a variety of camping styles, from traditional tenting to modern recreational vehicles. With its high elevation and deep forest cover, Limekiln Lake offers a cool and refreshing climate, making it one of the most sought-after spots in the Hamilton County region during the summer months.

The campground is managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and is celebrated for its cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and spacious sites. Families often choose Limekiln Lake for its balance of seclusion and activity; the sites are generally private, separated by natural foliage that gives campers a true sense of being in the wild. Despite its rustic feel, the park maintains a high standard of facility care, ensuring that restrooms and shower buildings are kept in top condition. Whether you are waking up to the sound of loons calling across the water or gathering around a campfire under a star-studded sky, Limekiln Lake provides a classic Adirondack backdrop that keeps generations of families returning year after year.

Location and accessibility are key components of the appeal at Limekiln Lake. Situated on Limekiln Lake Road in Inlet, NY 13360, the campground is easily reachable for those traveling from the Capital Region, Syracuse, or the Mohawk Valley. From downtown Inlet, the park is a quick drive—roughly two miles—down Limekiln Lake Road. This proximity to the town of Inlet allows campers to easily venture out for local dining, grocery shopping, or to explore the charming gift shops that define the area. For those traveling with larger equipment, the park’s main entrance is designed for easy navigation, and on-site parking is plentiful for both campers and day-use visitors.

Commitment to accessibility is evident throughout the grounds. Limekiln Lake Campground features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, along with accessible restroom and shower facilities. The park management has taken strides to ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks, providing designated accessible campsites and paved roadway sections that are suitable for walking or wheeling. While the natural terrain is hilly and forested, the central activity areas, including the beach and the picnic pavilion, are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone can participate in the lakeside fun.

• 271 diverse campsites including waterfront, wooded, and RV-friendly sites.
• Full-service RV camping support with a convenient on-site trailer dump station.
• Boat rentals featuring canoes, kayaks, and rowboats for exploring the lake.
• A large, sandy swimming beach with seasonal lifeguard supervision.
• Picnic area equipped with tables, fire rings, and a rentable pavilion for groups.
• Modern sanitation facilities including flush toilets and hot showers.
• Interpretive nature trails and self-guided hiking paths directly on the property.
• Junior Naturalist Program designed to engage children in environmental education.
• Recycling center and firewood sales to promote sustainable camping practices.

The highlights of Limekiln Lake Campground center on its incredible variety of outdoor activities. For hikers, the Old Dam Nature Trail is a 1.6-mile loop that starts right behind campsite #87, offering an easy stroll through cedar and hemlock forests. More adventurous hikers can use the campground as a base to explore the neighboring 66,000-acre Moose River Plains Wild Forest. Water enthusiasts will find the lake perfect for fishing, with species such as yellow perch, bullhead, and splake—a unique cross between lake and brook trout—teeming in the depths. The campground also features a playground for children and a small boat launch for those bringing their own motorized or non-motorized craft.

• Spectacular wildlife viewing, including frequent sightings of deer, loons, and the occasional black bear.
• Direct access to the Moose River Plains for extensive back-country hiking and exploration.
• Kid-friendly environment with a dedicated playground and organized youth programs.
• Pristine lake water that is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and sunset paddling.
• Excellent stargazing opportunities due to the remote location and lack of light pollution.
• Pet-friendly policy allowing leashed dogs to join the family on their camping adventure.
• On-site security and professional staff who offer safety tips and local lore.
• Quiet hours and a respectful community atmosphere that ensures a restful stay.

For those planning a visit to this Adirondack gem, the campground is open seasonally from mid-May through October. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the New York State DEC reservation system. Due to the park's popularity, waterfront sites often book up months in advance. It is important to note that cell phone reception is limited within the park, providing a true "off-the-grid" experience, though emergency services are always reachable via the registration booth.

Limekiln Lake Campground
Address: Limekiln Lake Rd, Inlet, NY 13360, USA
Phone: (315) 357-4401
Mobile Phone: +1 315-357-4401

Limekiln Lake Campground is worth choosing because it offers the quintessential Adirondack experience with a level of professionalism and care that is unmatched in the region. For local New Yorkers, it represents an affordable and high-quality vacation that balances relaxation with adventure. The park’s unique geography—situated just high enough to escape the humidity of the valleys—ensures a comfortable climate for outdoor living. Furthermore, the presence of food lockers and expert staff makes it a safe place for those new to camping in "bear country," providing the education and tools needed to co-exist with the local wildlife.

What truly sets Limekiln Lake apart is its versatility. Whether you are looking for a rigorous weekend of hiking and mountain biking or a slow-paced week of reading on a sandy beach, this campground caters to your specific needs. The ability to rent a canoe and spend an afternoon exploring the hidden coves of the lake, followed by a picnic under the pavilion, makes for a complete and satisfying itinerary. By choosing Limekiln Lake, you are not just booking a campsite; you are securing a spot in a vibrant, well-run community that honors the traditions of New York’s great outdoors. It is an investment in quality time, natural beauty, and the lasting memories that only a trip to the Adirondacks can provide.

Would you like me to look into the specific dates for the Junior Naturalist programs or provide more details on the hiking difficulty of the nearby Rocky Mountain trail?