Meadowbrook Campground

- 1174 NY-86, Ray Brook, NY 12977

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents seeking an accessible and strategically located base camp for exploring the magnificent Adirondack Park, the search often leads to Meadowbrook Campground. Operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this public campground is positioned in the heart of the stunning High Peaks region, offering a classic, wooded camping experience. Meadowbrook provides an ideal starting point for a wide array of outdoor recreation, from challenging mountain hikes to leisurely day trips to nearby villages.

Established in 1933, Meadowbrook Campground has been a long-standing favorite for those looking to connect with nature without committing to deep-wilderness isolation. The facility is a practical choice for both tent and trailer campers, featuring 62 campsites nestled among tall pines that offer a good level of privacy and shade. While it is known for being a relatively no-frills location, it offers the essential amenities needed for a comfortable stay while remaining one of the more affordably priced options in the immediate area. It serves as a true gateway to the Olympic Village of Lake Placid and the vibrant community of Saranac Lake, making it a highly convenient spot for local New Yorkers to launch their Adirondack adventures.

Location and Accessibility

Meadowbrook Campground boasts a premium location right on the Sara-Placid Road (NY State Route 86) in Ray Brook, NY. This positioning is one of its greatest assets, placing it almost equidistant—a mere four to five miles—between the bustling center of Lake Placid and the charming village of Saranac Lake. This proximity makes running errands, grabbing a meal, or visiting area attractions incredibly easy. Campers often appreciate being just a short, five-minute drive from the required supplies they may have forgotten, as well as the variety of restaurants and shopping options in the nearby villages.

Its precise address is:

1174 NY-86, Ray Brook, NY 12977, USA

Accessibility is straightforward, as the campground is situated directly off a major state road. While this convenient access means a shorter trip from New York's metropolitan areas and easy navigation for RVs, trailers, and campervans, it is important for prospective campers to note that some campsites, particularly those near the road, may experience noticeable traffic noise. The camp area itself features compacted dirt roads that lead to the two separate campsite loops, the day-use areas, and the dump station, all designed for drive-in access. Nearby parking is available for extra vehicles, subject to additional fees, ensuring a relatively smooth arrival and setup process.

Services Offered

Meadowbrook Campground focuses on providing functional, essential amenities to support a traditional camping experience. While the sites are unpowered (no electric hookups), the campground ensures campers have access to clean, vital facilities. The services are designed to accommodate a comfortable stay in a rustic environment. It's important to be prepared for dry camping, which is typical for many state-operated facilities in the region.

The core services provided include:

• Trailer Dump Station: Available for RV and trailer owners to manage waste disposal.
• Water Fill-Up Station: Providing potable water for drinking and cooking needs.
• Restrooms with Flush Toilets: Offering modern conveniences in the wilderness setting.
• Hot Showers: A highly valued amenity for refreshing after a long day of hiking.
• Recycling Center/Station: A central area for campers to drop off garbage and sort recyclables, supporting the DEC's environmental policy.
• Picnic Area and Pavilions: Day-use areas and covered pavilions available for gatherings, picnics, or simply relaxing outside the campsite.
• Firewood Sales: Although availability can sometimes be inconsistent, the campground typically offers firewood for sale (campers are advised not to bring wood from outside the region to prevent the spread of invasive species).
• ADA-Accessible Amenities: Certain features, including some restrooms and at least one campsite, are designed to be wheelchair accessible.
• Office and Staff Assistance: On-site office for check-in and information, though operating hours may vary, especially in the late season.

Features / Highlights

What makes Meadowbrook Campground a standout choice is its strategic position coupled with specific on-site and nearby features that enhance the Adirondack experience. The main highlights are heavily focused on its outdoor access and proximity to cultural and historical sites, making it much more than just a place to sleep.

Key features and highlights include:

• Premier Location between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake: The campground acts as an inexpensive, central hub for exploring two of the region's most popular destinations, including the Olympic venues, restaurants, and shopping.
• Direct Trail Access: A significant highlight is the direct access to the Scarface Mountain trailhead located within the campground property. This offers campers an immediate, strenuous, and rewarding rocky hike with excellent views from the summit, perfect for those with good health and fitness.
• Proximity to Major Hiking: Beyond Scarface, the campground is an excellent starting point for exploring other regional trails, including those for Haystack Mountain and McKenzie Mountain, as well as being only a 15-mile drive from the spectacular Whiteface Mountain Memorial Highway.
• Variety of Site Types: The campground offers a mix of sites suitable for small tents, larger tents, and hard-wheeled equipment like RVs and trailers (up to a certain length), accommodating a diverse range of camping styles.
• Individual Campsite Features: Each of the 62 campsites comes standard with a picnic table and an open fire grill/fire pit, providing the essentials for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Campers can bring up to two dogs per site, provided they have current rabies vaccinations, making it a great option for New Yorkers who travel with their four-legged friends.
• Abundant Nearby Activities: Activities such as biking, fishing (on nearby lakes and rivers like Oseetah Lake and McKenzie Pond), nature viewing, bird watching (with various species of birds of prey and owls), and golfing are all readily available within a short drive.

Contact Information

For reservations, specific inquiries, or to verify seasonal operation dates, potential campers should use the official contact details for Meadowbrook Campground.

Address:

1174 NY-86, Ray Brook, NY 12977, USA

Phone:

(518) 891-4351

Mobile Phone:

+1 518-891-4351

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Meadowbrook Campground is perfectly suited for local New Yorkers and regional visitors for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it offers one of the most cost-effective lodging options in the high-demand Lake Placid/Saranac Lake area. For locals, this affordability makes repeat visits to the Adirondacks a reality, offering tremendous value compared to the higher rates of nearby hotels and private resorts. Its strategic location on NY-86 means minimal travel time from the campsite to the main regional attractions, including the Olympic sites, Lake Placid’s downtown area, and the unique shops and restaurants of Saranac Lake. This convenience is a major advantage for those on weekend trips or those who wish to spend more time exploring and less time driving.

Furthermore, Meadowbrook provides immediate immersion into the legendary Adirondack wilderness with the Scarface Mountain trailhead starting directly from the grounds. It allows New Yorkers to quickly transition from city or suburban life to an authentic state park camping experience. While the convenience of being near a major road and the amenities of the DEC campground are a huge draw, prospective campers should be mindful of the potential for noise and ensure they adhere to the strictly enforced quiet hours of 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. This campsite is an excellent choice for fitness-focused locals, families who want an affordable, amenity-rich base camp, and anyone prioritizing location and direct access to some of the best outdoor activities the Empire State has to offer.

Meadowbrook Campground

1174 NY-86, Ray Brook, NY 12977, USA