Lake Harris

- 291 Campsite Rd, Newcomb, NY 12852

For generations of New Yorkers, the call of the Adirondacks represents the ultimate escape into pristine wilderness, and no spot embodies this spirit better than the Lake Harris Campground in Newcomb. Operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this well-maintained campground provides the perfect basecamp for exploring the vast, natural beauty of the Central Adirondacks. It is an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect from the frantic pace of city and suburban life and reconnect with the quiet majesty of upstate New York.

The campground is nestled on the northern shore of the scenic 275-acre Lake Harris, a beautiful body of water fed by the mighty Hudson River near its beginning. It offers a classic Adirondack experience, where campsites are sheltered among large hardwood trees, providing privacy and a stunning display of color throughout the season, especially in the fall. Visitors consistently praise the location for its beautiful setting, the cleanliness of its facilities—particularly the well-maintained restrooms and hot showers—and its close proximity to some of the region's most rewarding outdoor activities. Whether you are a dedicated hiker, an avid angler, or simply looking for a relaxing shoreline picnic, Lake Harris Campground delivers an authentic, high-quality New York State camping experience.

Lake Harris Campground is situated deep within the Adirondack Park, yet it remains relatively accessible for a significant portion of New York State residents looking for a wilderness getaway. It is located in the charming town of Newcomb, a community rich in history and outdoor opportunity.

The official address for the facility is:

291 Campsite Rd, Newcomb, NY 12852, USA

Accessibility from major New York population centers involves traveling north on the Northway (I-87), typically utilizing Exit 29 and following Route 28N to Newcomb. While the location ensures a peaceful, remote atmosphere—the closest area with reliable cell reception may be about twenty minutes away—the convenience of a well-maintained DEC facility is a major draw. The campground is strategically placed near the Adirondack Park Visitors Interpretive Center and the Santanoni Preserve Historic Site, positioning New York adventurers right at the heart of key regional attractions. Furthermore, the local area in Newcomb offers additional community events, such as the annual Teddy Roosevelt Days festivities, providing campers with a great opportunity to experience local culture alongside their outdoor recreation.

Lake Harris Campground operates as a full-service, in-season DEC facility designed to maximize camper comfort while preserving the natural environment.

• 89 Tent and Trailer Sites: The facility offers a mix of private, wooded campsites, including 57 highly-sought-after shoreline sites. Sites can accommodate various equipment, ranging from tents to RVs up to 40 feet in length.
• Modern Comfort Stations: Campers benefit from amenities not always found in deep wilderness settings, including flush toilets and hot showers, which are consistently noted by visitors for being very well maintained.
• RV Services: A dedicated trailer dump station and a recycling center are available to accommodate self-contained hard-wheeled camping units.
• Watercraft Rentals: For easy access to the lake, the campground offers both rowboat and canoe rentals directly on-site, perfect for spontaneous paddling trips.
• Boat Launch Facilities: A small, informal boat launch is provided within the campground, suitable for small trailered boats. Additionally, a larger, town-owned launch is conveniently located across the lake for bigger powerboats.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase within the facility, ensuring campers can safely enjoy evening campfires without relying on outside sources.
• Interpretive Programs: During peak season, the campground hosts "Junior Naturalist" interpretive programs for children aged five to thirteen, turning the outdoors into an educational classroom with activities, games, and patches to be earned.
• Day Use Area: The campground maintains a separate day use area, which includes a picnic area for visitors not staying overnight.

The true value of Lake Harris Campground lies in its stunning natural features and the wealth of recreational opportunities accessible directly from the site.

• Prime Boating and Paddling: Lake Harris is open to motorboats, canoes, and rowboats, providing 275 acres of water to explore. Campers can even paddle down the mighty Hudson River from the lake, enjoying scenic views along the shallow, rocky river sections.
• Exceptional Hiking Access: The campground serves as a major hub for hikers. Trails lead directly to the historic Camp Santanoni Preserve, an architectural gem. Nearby, adventurers can tackle the popular hikes to the summits of Goodnow Mountain and Vanderwhacker Mountain, both featuring restored fire towers with breathtaking views of the High Peaks Wilderness Area.
• Abundant Fishing: The lake is a premier fishing spot in the region, home to diverse species including walleye, northern pike, small and large mouth bass, and yellow perch, making it a favorite for New York anglers.
• Proximity to History: The camp is close to several historically significant sites, including the Historic Tahawus Tract (a ghost town), a monument commemorating Teddy Roosevelt's famous midnight ride, and the world-class Adirondack Museum at Blue Mountain Lake.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Customer reviews consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the well-maintained nature of the entire site, ensuring a relaxing and worry-free stay for all campers.

For reservations, current operating information, or to inquire about the New York State DEC rules and regulations for the facility, please use the following contact details:

Address: 291 Campsite Rd, Newcomb, NY 12852, USA

Phone: (518) 582-2503

Lake Harris Campground is perfectly suited for New York residents looking for an authentic, accessible, and high-quality Adirondack experience. For families, the combination of a beautiful lake, organized recreational activities, and the fun, educational Junior Naturalist programs makes it an ideal spot for a memorable summer vacation. For outdoor enthusiasts from across the Empire State, the location is unbeatable, offering direct access to significant hiking trails, including routes to fire tower summits and the Santanoni Preserve, as well as premier fishing and paddling opportunities right from your campsite. The comfort of having well-maintained facilities, including hot showers and flush toilets in a remote wilderness setting, removes many of the obstacles that can deter first-time campers. This DEC campground allows New Yorkers to easily and affordably tap into the natural heritage of the Adirondacks, ensuring a high level of maintenance and reliability. Lake Harris is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an annual tradition waiting to happen, providing a clean, beautiful, and activity-rich environment that truly defines the spirit of New York State’s great outdoors.

Lake Harris

291 Campsite Rd, Newcomb, NY 12852, USA