Bald Mountain Colony, Old Forge, NY

Introduction / Overview

Bald Mountain Colony is a distinctive private community in the heart of the Central Adirondacks, specifically catering to individuals and families looking for a permanent seasonal retreat rather than transient, short-term camping. Located just outside the bustling tourist hub of Old Forge, this property functions primarily as a seasonal RV park and cottage colony, offering a more stable, close-knit environment for summer residents. It is designed for those who want a long-term base to fully immerse themselves in the Adirondack lifestyle, year after year. The focus here is on community, the convenience of a dedicated seasonal spot, and having easy access to some of the region's most celebrated outdoor and family attractions.

Unlike traditional public campgrounds which typically limit stays to a maximum of 14 nights, Bald Mountain Colony provides a true 'home away from home' feel. The property features a mix of RV sites and charming seasonal residences, ensuring a comfortable and reliable getaway throughout the summer season. The setting is one of average-width gravel streets, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic with most homes featuring lap siding and peaked roofs. The entire atmosphere is geared toward creating a friendly, tight-knit community for the summer months—a place where people know their neighbors and enjoy a shared seasonal escape.

It is important for prospective residents to understand that, as a privately owned and operated seasonal community, the rules and regulations are set by the ownership and are typically more comprehensive than those of a state-run DEC campground. This structure is intended to maintain the integrity and aesthetic of the colony, though it is a point of frequent discussion among the tenants, as highlighted in some public feedback. Due to the long-term nature of residency, potential leasers are always advised to thoroughly review all community rules, particularly those pertaining to property modifications and sales, to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable stay.

Location and Accessibility

Bald Mountain Colony boasts an excellent location in Herkimer County, placing residents within minutes of key attractions while still offering a secluded atmosphere.

Address: 165 Tuttle Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

Proximity to Old Forge: The colony is situated very close to the center of Old Forge, which serves as the "Adirondack Base Camp" for the western region of the park. This means easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, unique shops, and other essential services.
Tuttle Road Access: The property is located off Tuttle Road, a quiet but accessible thoroughfare just off the main Route 28 artery, ensuring smooth travel to and from the community.
Bald Mountain Access: Crucially, the colony is named after the famous Bald Mountain (officially Rondaxe Mountain) hike, which is one of the most popular and rewarding climbs in the region. The proximity allows residents quick access to this trailhead, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes from its historic fire tower.
Regional Connectivity: Its central location in the Adirondacks makes it a convenient drive for New York residents from Upstate, Central New York, and the downstate metropolitan areas seeking a reliable summer residence.

Services Offered

As a seasonal colony, the site focuses on providing long-term residential amenities and community features rather than typical overnight campsite services.

Seasonal Sites: The colony contains 55 total spaces, predominantly dedicated to seasonal use for RVs, park models, and cottages, providing stability for residents who return year after year.
Parking: Off-street parking is provided for residents, a key convenience in a popular Adirondack tourist area.
Community Clubhouse: A welcoming clubhouse serves as the social hub for the community, facilitating gatherings and fostering the close-knit atmosphere often praised by long-time residents.
Utilities: Standard utility hookups for RVs and cottages are available, though specifics (like electric capacity) should be confirmed directly with management.
Pets: The community welcomes pets, subject to approval and adherence to established pet rules and policies.
Recreational Facilities: Recreational facilities are available on-site, providing organized outlets for family fun within the community.

Features / Highlights

The primary appeal of Bald Mountain Colony is its community structure and direct access to the most iconic local landmarks, making it a highly desirable location for seasonal Adirondack living.

Seasonal Stability and Community: The greatest highlight is the close-knit, friendly community of seasonal residents. As one satisfied resident noted, it is a "Great friendly and close knit community. Wonderful place to spend the summer." This environment is perfect for families and individuals who value routine and shared experiences with neighbors over quick, isolated visits.
Bald Mountain Hike Access: The famous Bald Mountain (Rondaxe Mountain) fire tower hike is located nearby, providing a quick, family-friendly outing. The 1.8 to 2.0-mile round trip hike offers some of the most spectacular, high-reward, low-effort views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes in the entire Adirondack Park.
Gateway to Local Attractions: The location puts residents at the doorstep of Old Forge's famous attractions, including the Enchanted Forest Water Safari water park, Calypso's Cove Family Fun Park, the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, and numerous shops and dining options.
Four-Season Adventure Base: While the colony is primarily seasonal, its location is perfect for accessing year-round Adirondack activities. It is well-situated for winter sports enthusiasts seeking access to the region’s renowned snowmobile trail system, which connects the greater Old Forge area.
No Age Restrictions: The community is welcoming to all ages, making it an excellent multi-generational choice for families looking for a recurring summer vacation spot.

Contact Information

To inquire about seasonal leases, community rules, or availability, interested New York residents should contact the colony directly.

Address: 165 Tuttle Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

Phone: (315) 369-3454

Mobile Phone: +1 315-369-3454

Prospective tenants should be prepared to discuss the specific terms of seasonal residency, including rules regarding site maintenance, property sales, and the use of community amenities.

Conclusion: Why this place is Suitable for Locals

Bald Mountain Colony offers a unique, specialized niche for New York State locals who love the Adirondacks but prefer a stable, seasonal residential setup over transient camping. For many, a seasonal spot is the ultimate solution, providing a dedicated vacation home that is always ready to go without the hassle of packing up every weekend or dealing with public campground reservation systems. It’s an investment in recurring summer joy, allowing families to build lasting traditions in a place they can truly call their "Adirondack home."

The suitability for locals is found in its dual identity: it is a peaceful, community-focused sanctuary with friendly neighbors, yet it is instantly connected to the massive recreational infrastructure of Old Forge and the wilderness. You can spend the morning hiking the famously scenic Bald Mountain, the afternoon at a local water park, and the evening having a barbecue with your long-time seasonal neighbors. This balance of community, convenience, and direct access to the region's best natural and family attractions solidifies Bald Mountain Colony's value as a premier, long-term summer escape for New York residents. However, as with any seasonal community, prospective residents must conduct thorough due diligence and understand that the private ownership structure requires adherence to the colony's specific rules, which are in place to preserve the order and look of this beloved Adirondack retreat.