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Adirondack/Paradox Lake
Overview
Paradox Lake Campground offers a quintessential Adirondack experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the woods. Situated on the shores of the unique Paradox Lake—named for the natural phenomenon where water appears to flow backward during spring runoff—this facility provides a secluded escape. Managed by the state, the park emphasizes natural beauty and a quiet atmosphere. Visitors here find a reprieve from commercialized resorts, trading luxury for the rustling of pines and the calling of loons on the water.
Location & Surroundings
Located just off Route 74 in Paradox, NY, the campground serves as a gateway to the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area. The surrounding landscape is defined by rugged mountains and dense forests characteristic of the northern Adirondack Park. The park’s position on the lake narrows provides campers with easy access to both the eastern and western basins, offering diverse shoreline scenery and deep, clear waters perfect for afternoon exploration or early morning photography.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic facility featuring 58 wooded campsites designed to blend into the environment. While the park does not offer electric or water hookups, it provides essential comforts including hot showers, flush toilets, and a convenient dumping station for RVers. The park features a sandy beach for swimming, a picnic area with charcoal grills, and a boat launch suitable for smaller vessels. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available on-site for those who want to get out on the water without hauling their own gear.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can tackle the challenging hike up Pharaoh Mountain for panoramic views of the high peaks region. Anglers frequent the lake for landlocked salmon and lake trout, while the calm narrows are perfect for flatwater paddling. A short drive east leads to the historic Fort Ticonderoga, while the nearby town of Schroon Lake offers local dining and summer theater performances. The area is a prime destination for birdwatching and wildlife spotting throughout the season.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is perfect for self-contained RVers and van lifers who prioritize a deep connection with nature over modern resort amenities. It appeals to families seeking a traditional camping experience and paddlers looking for direct water access. If you enjoy quiet evenings by a campfire and the simplicity of dry camping within a scenic mountain wilderness, this park is an excellent fit for your Adirondack travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Papaya Purple
Amazing and so peaceful at the lake!
Henry Swartz
We love this campground very much and have always enjoyed it but this time the bathrooms were not cleaned especially the showers. No toilet paper for a day and a half even though they were there each day. Complained about a noisy camper that could be heard six sites away. Told they couldn’t ask them to turn it down as it was before 10pm. It went on and off all day long. Other campers spoke to them with little change and we did not want it to be confrontational. The male cut off the female worker and said they were just having fun and they weren’t the fun police. Other than that it was a great time. With that we would definitely come back.
Stephanie Adams
Great campground with a awesome day use area. Best deal on renting paddle boards and kayaks in the area
Zack Hintz
I do a lot of icefishing up in the Adirondacks so it was very nice to go up and camp during the summer! Paradox Lake Campground was a great spot for a romantic getaway with my girlfriend. We enjoyed our time on the lake, as well as our peaceful campsite, which was close but not too close to the bathrooms. Site was equipped with a fire pit and grill to cook over the fire if you want to. Our site was also nice and flat which made tent camping very comfortable. We brought our dog up and it was nice for her as well. We fell asleep to the sound of Loon calls and were able to see them out on the lake. We used the on- site boat launch which was very convenient, although the dock seemed to be a bit underwater. Not sure if the water rises or falls at all though, but I'd prepare to take your shoes off if launching a vessel of any size. There was ample parking for my boat and trailer both at our campsite and the launch parking lot which was very nice. Only complaint is that their season isn't longer! Would love to camp up there in the fall!
Nicole
Unfortunately we were affected by storms this weekend, but unpredictable mother nature aside, this is a fantastic campground with large sites and a beautiful pond to fish and boat in! 10 minutes from Schroon Lake gives you the opportunity to swim at the beach and visit some cute local shops, as well!