Limekiln State Campground

- Campsite Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420

For residents across New York State, the Adirondack Park represents the ultimate opportunity for an accessible wilderness escape. Tucked near the charming towns of Old Forge and Inlet, Limekiln State Campground offers a classic, welcoming, and nature-rich camping experience managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). This campground is a beloved destination, balancing the rugged beauty of the Adirondack Forest Preserve with the essential comforts that make a family trip enjoyable.

The positive feedback from local campers underscores the quality of this retreat: "Great location, beautiful lake," and an "Incredible place to lay on the beach, kayak around the lake and enjoy the nature!!" While maintaining the rustic charm of an older state facility, Limekiln is well-cared for, offering hot showers, friendly staff, and a deep connection to the outdoors. It provides a perfect home base for exploring the region's hiking trails, watersports, and nearby attractions.

Introduction / Overview

Limekiln State Campground is a sprawling facility featuring 271 tent and trailer sites, making it one of the larger and more popular DEC campgrounds in the southwestern Adirondacks. Established in 1963, it holds a rich history and a classic feel, situated on the shores of Limekiln Lake, a sizable body of water that permits both non-motorized and motorized boating. The sites are known for being spacious, shaded, and well-wooded, providing a sense of privacy essential for a relaxing getaway.

The campground caters to a diverse group of New York campers, from tent-pitching purists to RV enthusiasts, though it maintains its rustic DEC roots by generally offering no utility hookups. Its location is highly desirable, offering immediate access to lake activities while being only a short drive from the shopping, dining, and family amusements found in nearby Old Forge and Inlet. It is consistently praised for its stunning lake views, friendly atmosphere, and being a safe environment where the caretaker and fellow campers often prove to be very helpful and kind.

Location and Accessibility

Limekiln State Campground is positioned deep within the Adirondack Park, yet remains highly accessible for New York residents driving up from the lower regions of the state. It is located just outside the resort community of Old Forge, offering easy access to town amenities.

Address: Campsite Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

The campground is situated in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest, just a short drive from Route 28, a major Adirondack thoroughfare. For those navigating by GPS, the site is technically located just outside of Inlet.

• Proximity to Towns: The campground is central to the recreational activities of the region, with the Village of Inlet a quick drive away for quick supplies, and the larger town of Old Forge approximately 10–15 minutes away, providing access to restaurants, golf, and amusements like the Enchanted Forest Water Safari.
• Site Access for Larger Equipment: Campers should be aware that while the campground accommodates large RVs and trailers (up to 40 feet in some areas), the internal roads are noted by previous visitors as being narrow and tight. Those with bigger campers will find their choice of usable sites limited and should research site size carefully when reserving.
• Cell Service: Connectivity can be limited, which is often a desirable feature for a wilderness retreat, but worth noting for planning. Reviews suggest that ATT has reception, but other major carriers may not have service.
• Accessibility: The facility is noted to have mobility-impaired accessible features and sites, though visitors should confirm specific details when making reservations.

Services Offered

Despite its older, rustic feel, Limekiln State Campground provides a robust set of services to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Facilities: The campground features flush toilets and hot showers. Note that there is primarily one shower facility, which, while older, is well-maintained and provides hot water.
• Sanitary Services: A trailer dump station and a recycling center are available on-site.
• Camp Essentials: Firewood and ice are available for sale at the facility's gatehouse.
• Site Provisioning: Every one of the 271 tent and trailer sites is furnished with a picnic table and a fireplace/fire ring.
• Watercraft Rentals: Canoe and rowboat rentals are available directly at the campground, providing an easy way to explore Limekiln Lake.
• Group and Day Use: Picnic areas with tables and fireplaces are available, along with a pavilion rental option for larger groups or gatherings.

Features / Highlights

Limekiln State Campground offers unique features that showcase the best of the Adirondacks and ensure a memorable visit for campers.

• Limekiln Lake Access: The main feature is the beautiful lake itself. It is open to motorboats, rowboats, and canoes, offering diverse water recreational opportunities, including a boat launch.
• Bear Safety Measures: The campground is in an area with frequent bear activity. For the safety of campers and wildlife, every single campsite is equipped with a bear box (food locker), a critical feature that all New York campers must utilize for food storage.
• Swimming and Beach: A sandy beach and designated swimming area are available on the lake. Visitors should note, as mentioned in reviews, that swimming is typically unsupervised by lifeguards at this type of DEC facility, requiring swimmers to exercise caution.
• On-site Hiking: A nature trail, the Old Dam Nature Trail, is a 1.6-mile loop starting near site #87, providing an easy hike directly from the campground. The site is also surrounded by the 66,000+ acre Moose River Plains Wild Forest, offering miles of additional hiking opportunities.
• Fishing: The lake is a popular fishing spot, home to a wide variety of fish, including yellow perch, bullhead, bluegill, and splake.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome at the campground, provided owners show a valid rabies vaccination document. However, pets are not permitted on the beach or in the main picnic area.

Contact Information

For reservations and specific inquiries about site availability, especially for large camping units, visitors should use the primary contact number and check the New York State Parks reservation system.

Address: Campsite Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

Phone: (315) 357-4401

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Limekiln State Campground is an institution for New York State campers and offers the perfect blend of Adirondack beauty and family-friendly infrastructure. For New Yorkers looking to escape the urban and suburban bustle, this campground is a reliable, familiar choice. It offers more than just a campsite—it’s a traditional summer experience. The scenic lake, the hot showers, the helpful staff, and the non-negotiable bear boxes demonstrate a facility that is committed to providing a safe and memorable outdoor experience. While the roads may be tight for the largest RVs, this only adds to the secluded, wooded feel of the sites, giving every visitor a genuine wilderness vibe. Its proximity to both wilderness trails and the entertainment options of Old Forge and Inlet makes it the ideal base camp for a diverse range of family vacations, ensuring every New Yorker can find their own way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Limekiln State Campground

Campsite Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA