Nicks Lake Campground

- 278 Bisby Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420

For New Yorkers seeking the ideal blend of deep woods serenity and modern camping convenience, Nicks Lake Campground stands out as an Adirondack gem. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this beautiful facility in Old Forge offers an experience that feels both remote and perfectly equipped for a comfortable family vacation. The reviews speak for themselves, describing the location as "Adirondack Perfection" and praising the spacious, private sites and the "gorgeous—calm, scenic" lake.

The key to Nicks Lake’s peaceful environment is its namesake body of water. The 205-acre lake is closed to motorized boats, ensuring the only sounds you hear are the gentle dip of a paddle, the call of a loon, and the crackle of your campfire. This dedication to tranquility, combined with impeccably maintained grounds and excellent amenities, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to truly disconnect and relax in the beauty of the Empire State’s wilderness.

Introduction / Overview

Nicks Lake Campground is a mid-sized DEC facility nestled within the Black River Wild Forest, just outside the popular hamlet of Old Forge. It offers a total of 112 tent and trailer campsites set in a dense, picturesque wooded setting right on the shore of Nicks Lake. The campground is well-known for successfully balancing a secluded, nature-focused atmosphere with excellent, user-friendly facilities.

Unlike many Adirondack campgrounds, Nicks Lake provides numerous recreational and convenience features that appeal to all ages and camping styles, from families seeking a safe beach to outdoor athletes looking for challenging mountain bike routes. The private feel of the campsites—noted by a customer who appreciated the "plenty of space between the camping lots"—allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding forest without feeling crowded. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base camp for exploring not only the immediate area but also the vibrant attractions of the nearby Old Forge community.

Location and Accessibility

Nicks Lake Campground is perfectly situated to offer quick access to town amenities while maintaining a quiet forest setting.

Address: 278 Bisby Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

• Driving Access: The campground is easily accessible by car, located just a short drive from Route 28 in Old Forge. This convenient road access is critical for campers with trailers or large amounts of gear.
• Proximity to Old Forge: A quick drive brings visitors right into the heart of Old Forge, providing essential access to supermarkets, specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment, including the Enchanted Forest Water Safari. This convenience is a highlight for many visitors, as one review mentioned, it’s "just a quick hop into Old Forge for supplies or a meal."
• Connection to Wild Forest: The location directly abuts the Black River Wild Forest, offering immediate access to a vast network of trails and wilderness areas for those looking to venture beyond the campground perimeter.
• Nearby Attractions: The campground is positioned near major regional points of interest, including the historic Adirondack Scenic Railroad and the popular McCauley Mountain, which is a local hub for both winter skiing and summer mountain biking.

Services Offered

Nicks Lake is known for providing comfortable facilities that enhance the rustic camping experience.

• Campsites: 112 designated sites, accommodating both tents and trailers. Sites are typically large, wooded, and private, with some waterfront options available.
• Sanitation and Comfort: Modern amenities include flush toilets and, notably, hot showers. The restrooms are often praised by visitors for being "impressively clean and well-maintained."
• Site Utilities: All sites are equipped with a picnic table and a fireplace/fire ring for cooking and campfires.
• Trailer Facilities: A trailer dump station is available for RV and travel trailer users. Some sites may offer partial hookups.
• Water and Waste: Potable water access is available throughout the campground, and a recycling center is provided to promote environmental responsibility.
• Recreation Equipment: Canoe, kayak, and boat rentals are available right at the campground, making it easy for non-owners to enjoy the lake.
• Day-Use Area: A large picnic area with a rental pavilion, tables, and fireplaces is available for day visitors and group gatherings.

Features / Highlights

The features of Nicks Lake are centered around its tranquil water and extensive trail system.

• Motor-Free Lake: Nicks Lake is a 205-acre, shallow lake where motorized boats are strictly prohibited. This creates a uniquely peaceful atmosphere, perfect for quiet paddling, swimming, and fishing.
• Sand Beach and Swimming Area: The campground boasts a lovely sand beach and a designated swimming area, often supervised by lifeguards during posted hours, complete with a bathhouse for changing.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The facility serves as a primary trailhead for the Black River Wild Forest. A popular 4.5-mile Nicks Lake Loop trail circles the lake, offering scenic views and connecting to over twenty miles of additional multi-use trails, including the Nelson Lake Loop and Remsen Falls trails. The area is a recognized hub for mountain biking enthusiasts.
• Family Recreation: Beyond the lake, the campground offers a playground, a ball field, volleyball net, basketball, and often runs a Junior Naturalist Program for children.
• Fishing: The quiet waters of Nicks Lake are known for excellent fishing, particularly for bass and brown trout.
• Nature Trail: A self-guided nature trail with educational stations provides an easy, informative walk for all ages, perfect for viewing local wildlife like loons and white-tailed deer.

Contact Information

For reservations, seasonal operating dates, and specific inquiries, you can contact the campground directly:

Address: 278 Bisby Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA

Phone: (315) 369-3314

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of New York State, Nicks Lake Campground represents the best of the Adirondacks without sacrificing comfort or accessibility. It provides an ideal weekend escape or extended vacation for families, paddlers, and trail enthusiasts. The motor-free lake is a tremendous draw, guaranteeing a rare and restorative quietude that is hard to find on larger, busier bodies of water. Furthermore, its location allows for a seamless transition between wilderness adventure—with miles of adjacent biking and hiking trails connecting directly to the campground—and the convenience of the bustling, fun-filled community of Old Forge. The combination of clean, modern facilities like hot showers, private, spacious sites, and access to truly wild, beautiful scenery ensures that Nicks Lake remains a cherished and frequently revisited "magical destination" for New Yorkers year after year.

Nicks Lake Campground

278 Bisby Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420, USA