George A Donaldson & Sons Inc, Saranac Lake, NY

Introduction / Overview

George A. Donaldson & Sons Inc., widely known simply as Donaldson's Campground, is a long-standing, family-owned institution nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, perfectly positioned to serve as your basecamp for exploring the stunning Saranac Lake region of New York. Unlike many of the more primitive camping options in the area, Donaldson's offers the convenience and comfort of an established campground, making it a highly popular destination for families, RV enthusiasts, and repeat visitors from across New York State.

Located on the tranquil shores of the magnificent Upper Saranac Lake, the campground has cultivated a warm, welcoming atmosphere that gives it a palpable “you'll want to come back every year vibe,” as noted by loyal patrons. It’s an ideal place for New Yorkers seeking an outdoor experience that balances incredible natural beauty and access to the wilderness with the essential modern conveniences that make extended stays comfortable. The entire operation is built around ease of access to the area's prized natural features, especially the water. The campground is complemented by the convenience of an on-site 'Trading Post' that acts as both a supply hub and a popular local deli, ensuring campers have everything they need without having to leave the immediate area.

Donaldson's Campground has become synonymous with relaxed, traditional Adirondack camping, offering a community atmosphere that is both friendly and geared toward enjoying the water-centric recreation that defines this corner of the park. From the excellent boat launch to the beautiful beach and the proximity to the most beautiful lake in the Adirondacks, this location is a genuine New York treasure.

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Location and Accessibility

The George A. Donaldson & Sons Inc. Campground is situated on the waterfront of Upper Saranac Lake, with its general location given as Upper Saranac Lk, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, USA. While the official address is on Upper Saranac Lake, the entrance and main hub, the Trading Post, are located just off State Route 30, making it accessible by car from major New York routes leading into the Adirondack Park.

The drive to the campground proper, however, is a notable feature of the experience. Customer reviews indicate that the specific road leading down to the actual campsites can be "a little rough and long." This is a common characteristic of private Adirondack access roads and means visitors, especially those driving large RVs or pulling trailers, should proceed slowly and with caution. Yet, as visitors report, the long, rough road is a minor inconvenience that "opens up to a beautiful camp" upon arrival, serving to heighten the sense of having reached a private, secluded retreat on the lake.

The location is strategically excellent for paddlers and boaters, as it offers a private launch point directly onto Upper Saranac Lake. Furthermore, its proximity to other regional attractions, such as the famous Fish Creek Pond State Campground area and the wider Saranac Lakes Wild Forest, makes it a convenient central point for exploring the Tri-Lakes region of Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Lake Placid.

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Services Offered

Donaldson's Campground, operating alongside its essential Trading Post, provides a comprehensive set of services designed for maximum guest comfort, particularly for those with RVs or in need of resupply:

Full Hookup Sites: The campground offers sites with electrical (60 sites) and sewage (60 sites) hookups, providing the necessary infrastructure for comfortable RV camping.
The Trading Post: A significant on-site convenience, serving as a fully stocked grocery store that includes essential camping supplies and gas.
Fresh Deli and Food Service: The Trading Post features a deli counter offering fresh, made-to-order foods like subs (Italian, turkey, hot subs), fresh donuts, and pizza, along with Green Mountain Coffee.
Boat Launch: A private boat launch is available on the property, providing campers with exclusive and convenient access to Upper Saranac Lake.
Dump Station: Available on-site to accommodate RVs and self-contained units.
Family-Friendly Environment: The campground maintains a community-focused atmosphere, catering to families who return annually.
Reservations and Booking: While they maintain a low-key, family-run operation, they can be reached by phone for pricing, directions, and to inquire about making a reservation.

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Features / Highlights

The main draw of Donaldson's Campground is the combination of its premium location on one of the Adirondacks' most beautiful lakes and the convenience of its private facilities:

Upper Saranac Lake Access: The campground boasts direct, private access to Upper Saranac Lake, celebrated by many as the "most beautiful lake in the Adirondacks" for its scenic views and expansive, clean waters.
Private Beach: A dedicated beach area offers the "best view" on the lake and a perfect, protected spot for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Incredible Paddling: The location provides immediate access to miles of interconnected waterways, making it a prime spot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle-board exploration in the Saranac Lake chain.
The Essential Trading Post: The on-site store is a major convenience, eliminating the need for daily trips into town. It's a reliable source for everything from daily groceries to delicious, fresh meals like subs and pizza, offering a high-quality food service not typically found at a traditional campground.
Strong Community Vibe: The campground is known for its high number of repeat visitors who have been "coming here for over 10 years," fostering a friendly, welcoming, and safe atmosphere for New York families.
Proximity to Fish Creek Pond: Situated very close to the well-known Fish Creek Pond area, campers have the advantage of being near a major regional hub for outdoor activities while enjoying the privacy of a separate, full-service private facility.

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Contact Information

As a private, family-owned establishment, the best way for New York residents to inquire about reservations, availability, or specific amenities is to contact the office directly by phone, as they are not known for extensive online presence:

Address: Upper Saranac Lk, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, USA
Phone: (518) 891-4070
Mobile Phone: +1 518-891-4070

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Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For New York locals, George A. Donaldson & Sons Inc. Campground—or simply Donaldson’s—is the ideal destination for a traditional, comfortable, and deeply satisfying Adirondack vacation. It offers the perfect middle ground between the primitive, rustic DEC campsites and the high-end private resorts. New Yorkers who own an RV or prefer the security of full hookups will find a well-maintained, welcoming home base here, all while being situated on one of the region's most magnificent bodies of water. The loyalty of its clientele—many of whom have been returning for over a decade—speaks volumes about the quality of the experience and the friendly, family-run atmosphere that welcomes repeat business.

Crucially, the on-site Trading Post acts as a vital amenity for local convenience, allowing families to spend less time driving for supplies and more time relaxing on the private beach, paddling the Saranac chain, or simply enjoying the unparalleled lake views. This combination of robust RV services, a stellar waterfront location on Upper Saranac Lake, and a cherished community feel makes Donaldson's Campground a highly recommended and reliable choice for a quintessential Adirondack getaway for New York residents.