Spend Summer Outside in Hamilton County

Make this summer one to remember in the expansive, unspoiled wilderness of Hamilton County, N.Y., your gateway to the great outdoors.

If your idea of the perfect summer retreat includes hiking to waterfalls, peacefully paddling along scenic coastlines and visiting charming small towns to dine, shop and stay, you’ve found your next road trip destination.

So, what are you waiting for? Big adventure awaits in the Adirondacks.

Camping

Sometimes the best way to get out in nature is to go on a camping trip. Hamilton County is full of campgrounds that support tent and RV camping alike.

Lake Eaton Campground in Long Lake offers a beach and a variety of hiking trails, Lake Durant Campground in Blue Mountain Lake has access to the Northville-Placid Trail and the picturesque Blue Mountain, and Sacandaga Campground in Hope is within hiking distance of several waterfalls.

Eighth Lake Campground and Indian Lake Islands Campground (only accessible by boat) are both perfect for fishing, boating and paddling.

Small Towns

The small towns of Hamilton County have just as much to offer as the great outdoors. Check out the Speculator Farmers Market, the antique wooden boats at the Blue Mountain Lake Boat Livery, the Inlet Golf Club and the iconic Hoss’s Country Corner store in Long Lake.

Culture

In true Adirondacks fashion, it’s not hard to find cultural offerings amidst the trees.

Learn about the art and history of the area at Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. Cruise and dine on the W.W. Durant, a replica steamboat that sails across Raquette Lake. You can even step back into architectural history at Great Camps Sagamore and Santanoni.

Hiking Challenges

If you’re looking for hiking challenges, you’ve come to the right place. On the waterfall challenge, you’re tasked with finding as many of the area’s waterfalls as you can. Each waterfall is worth a certain amount of points, and if you hike enough, you can earn a special waterfall patch. Similarly, the fire tower challenge tasks you with hiking to the area’s historic fire towers to earn a fire tower patch.

Hamilton County is filled with hiking trails for all skill levels and destinations, from ponds to birding hot spots and more. Just remember to leave no trace behind so the trails can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Have you ever gone camping or hiking in the Adirondacks? Let us know in the comments below.