Chapel Pond Campsites

- Keene, NY 12943

Introduction / Overview: Rustic Camping at the Gateway to the High Peaks

For New York residents seeking an authentic, no-frills wilderness experience, the Chapel Pond Campsites in Keene, NY, offer a perfectly situated basecamp in the heart of the Adirondack Park's High Peaks region. This is not a state-run campground with modern amenities; rather, it is a collection of designated, primitive camping spots managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) within the Dix Mountain Wilderness.

Located right off scenic Route 73, these campsites are primarily geared toward the serious outdoor enthusiast—especially hikers tackling the Dix Mountain Tract and, most famously, the numerous rock climbers drawn to the iconic Chapel Pond Slab and surrounding cliffs. The setting is stunning, tucked into a narrow valley with towering cliffs and lush mountain slopes rising dramatically from the pond's edge. It provides a unique opportunity for New Yorkers to experience the Adirondack wilderness with the convenience of roadside access. It is vital to note that these are first-come, first-served campsites, reflecting their wilder, more spontaneous nature.

Primitive camping here requires a high degree of self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, which is part of its charm. The experience is about waking up next to nature, utilizing the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks, and appreciating the simplicity of a well-maintained, yet basic, campsite.

Location and Accessibility

Chapel Pond Campsites boast one of the most desirable, yet easily accessible, locations in the Adirondack High Peaks.

Address: Keene, NY 12943, USA

The campsites are situated on the north end of Chapel Pond, directly off State Route 73. For New Yorkers driving in, the location is approximately six miles from Interstate 87 (the Northway) Exit 30, making it a relatively straightforward drive from points south in New York State. It is also only about 20-30 minutes from the bustling village of Lake Placid and within close proximity to the communities of Keene and Keene Valley, where food and essential supplies can be easily obtained.

Access to the main group of sites near the pond is via a short, seasonal access road just north of the Chapel Pond Parking Area. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for navigating some sections of the trail/access road, which can be rocky and rugged, as noted by local users. The area is highly visible from the road, making it an excellent rendezvous point, but the individual sites are nestled into the woods, offering a degree of privacy. Due to the area's popularity, especially during peak hiking and climbing seasons, visitors should be prepared for potential road noise and limited parking availability, underscoring the value of arriving early.

Services Offered

As a primitive camping location on state land within the Dix Mountain Wilderness, Chapel Pond Campsites offer limited services. This is a deliberate part of the wilderness experience, requiring campers to be prepared and self-reliant. Services are generally restricted to the maintenance of the basic site infrastructure:

• Designated Primitive Campsites: Marked with yellow "Camp Here" disks, ensuring camping is restricted to established, hardened sites to protect the surrounding environment.
• Fire Pit Management: Fires are permitted in existing fire pits, provided only dead and down wood is used, in accordance with DEC fire safety regulations for the Dix Mountain Wilderness.
• Seasonal Road Maintenance: The short access road leading to the north end campsites is seasonally maintained, though high clearance is often beneficial for navigating the rugged terrain.
• Waste Disposal Guidance: Though not all sites have a vault toilet, the DEC provides guidance and encourages the use of pit privies where provided, and requires the proper burying of human waste at least 150 feet from water and campsites where no privy is available.
• Bear Canister Regulation: Campers must adhere to the New York State DEC regulation requiring the use of bear-resistant canisters for all overnight food, garbage, and toiletries in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness between April 1st and November 30th to protect both humans and wildlife.

Features / Highlights

The primary appeal of Chapel Pond Campsites lies in its stunning natural features and direct access to renowned Adirondack activities:

• Iconic Rock Climbing Access: The campsites are considered the primary basecamp for climbers accessing the Chapel Pond Slab and the nearby Beer Walls. This proximity allows climbers to wake up and be on some of the region's classic routes—from traditional to bouldering—in minutes.
• Scenic Waterfront Location: The pond itself is a beautiful, clear water body, perfect for a refreshing swim after a long day of hiking or climbing, or for a leisurely paddle, offering unique views of the surrounding cliffs.
• Gateway to High Peaks Hiking: The sites are strategically located near major trailheads in the Dix Mountain Tract, providing easy access to High Peaks like Dix Mountain and Giant Mountain, making them a perfect staging point for peak baggers.
• First-Come, First-Served Affordability: As free, primitive sites on state land, they offer one of the most budget-friendly ways for New York residents to stay overnight in the popular High Peaks region, with no fee charged for a stay of three days or less.
• True Primitive Experience: The lack of formal amenities ensures an authentic, rugged Adirondack experience that encourages a deep connection with nature and the practice of "Leave No Trace" ethics.
• Natural Seclusion: While close to Route 73, the individual sites are often well-maintained and spaced out, allowing for a quiet, private overnight stay, as highlighted by local campers who appreciate the sense of seclusion.

Contact Information

Chapel Pond Campsites are managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) as part of the Dix Mountain Tract. While there is no dedicated office at the campsites, the DEC Region 5 office serves as the central contact for information regarding state land rules, conditions, and enforcement.

Address (General Area): Keene, NY 12943, USA (Sites located off Route 73 near Chapel Pond Parking Area).

General Information: NYS DEC Region 5 Ray Brook Office

Phone (General Information): 518-897-1200 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM)

Emergency Contact (Search, Rescue, Wildfire, Enforcement): Call 911 or 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for New York Locals

Chapel Pond Campsites are perfectly suited for New York State residents who possess an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for the Adirondack wilderness. For local hikers, climbers, and backpackers, it provides an invaluable and incredibly convenient staging area that cuts down on drive time to prime recreational spots. The free, primitive nature of the camping spots is a major draw, offering an affordable alternative to commercial campgrounds, making the High Peaks more accessible to all budgets.

Most importantly, camping at Chapel Pond means stepping into one of the most dramatically scenic corners of New York—a place where world-class rock climbing slabs meet tranquil waters and the raw, unadulterated beauty of the Dix Mountain Wilderness. It’s an ideal location for New Yorkers to unplug, engage in high-intensity outdoor activity, and foster a connection with the state’s natural heritage, all while adhering to the respectful standards of primitive camping. If you seek a quiet retreat where the focus is strictly on nature and adventure, Chapel Pond Campsites is an essential stop on your Adirondack itinerary.

Chapel Pond Campsites

Keene, NY 12943, USA