Boondocking in The Adirondacks

One of my goals for exploring the Adirondacks was simple.

Find great boondocking spots and spend a few days enjoying the wilderness.

Using New York State DEC maps, I researched primitive campsites near trout streams and fishing opportunities. I always try to have multiple backup plans because boondocking is rarely predictable.

Our search took us along Route 28, also known as the Adirondack Trail Scenic Byway.

The drive alone is worth the trip.

The road winds through forests, past lakes, and across mountain valleys. Every few miles there seemed to be another scenic overlook, trailhead, or body of water worth exploring.

One of the highlights came near Exit 26 on Interstate 87.

Stone Bridge Ice Cream might be one of the best ice cream stops we've discovered during our travels. The family-owned shop offers more than 90 homemade soft-serve flavors.

I ordered blueberry crumble. It featured blueberry soft serve mixed with crumble topping and served in a waffle cone.

It was excellent.

Just down the road sits Natural Stone Bridge and Caves. The attraction features the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern United States along with waterfalls, hiking trails, and impressive rock formations.

After our stop, we continued toward Perkins Clearing.

Over the course of several hours, I explored numerous primitive campsites connected by dirt roads. Some were occupied. Others were too small. Eventually I found a large clearing near wetlands and a small stream.

It was exactly what I had been looking for.

The site offered privacy, fishing opportunities, and enough open sky for Starlink. The surrounding wetlands filled with frogs each evening, creating a soundtrack that lasted well into the night.

After several days of driving and sightseeing, it felt good to slow down.

The following morning, I tried fishing the nearby stream. Unfortunately, the fish weren't interested.

The weather wasn't cooperating either.

Temperatures stayed cool. Rain moved into the forecast. Windy conditions made outdoor activities less enjoyable than I had hoped.

Rather than spend several wet days in a primitive campsite, I decided to relocate to Lewey Lake State Campground.

The campground sits along a chain of interconnected waterways that includes Lewey Lake and Indian Lake. Waterfront campsites were in high demand, but after exploring the campground I found a site with enough open sky for Starlink and settled in.

One important tip for anyone traveling with dogs in New York State Parks: bring proof of rabies vaccination. Campgrounds require documentation during check-in. I keep photos of Kona's records on my phone, which makes the process quick and easy.

After checking in, I asked whether Kona could swim at the beach.

The weather was cool and the beach was empty.

The answer was yes.

Watching Kona race into the water reminded me why we travel this way. The destinations are wonderful, but sharing these adventures with her is what makes the journey special.

The Adirondacks delivered everything I had hoped for. Historic sites, scenic drives, remote campsites, mountain views, and unexpected discoveries filled every day.

And this was only the beginning of our summer journey.