Adirondack Loop - Help Needed

[mike_khad1]

I am planning a loaded trip CCW around the Adirondack State Park using ACA maps. The trip is supposed to start May 8, 2009 and I'm finding that the State Parks I'm planning on using do not open until after the Memorial Day Weekend. Short of rescheduling my vacation, does anyone have any suggestions. Can I camp where I planned on camping even though the park is closed? Are there alternate places to camp other than those listed on ACA maps? Should I just do it anyway and hope the local police will let me use municipal parks, etc?

Mike

[JayH]

You'll probably find that the DEC Campgrounds are closed for the most part in early may, except for maybe the most popular ones but there are some private campgrounds running around the area that may be open, or may not be.  You would almost have to call them to find out or website them, or maybe somebody is more local to the ADKs than I am.    of course, there are hotels and a couple of hostels but I'm assuming that is not your concern.   

If you are aware of the trails, if you find state land and not a private inholding inside the "blue line" which is the park boundary, you can camp 150ft away from water, road, trail, etc... which means if you are utilizing a hammock or a really small bivy, it might be possible to just backcountry camp. Just don't expect the amenities of a shower, etc. other than the stream, in which you should absolutely practice backcountry camping etiquette and Leave No Trace.   

However, you may also contact the local police and see if they wouldn't mind accomodating you with parks and such..  or perhaps look up Warmshowers or org. like that...   

Jay

[jimbo]

Mike....May is peak black fly season in the Adk's. Nasty stuff. As posted earlier most NYS/DEC camps are not open that early.  "Google" private RV/campgrounds along your route and you should find some RV parks open, but you are a month early and may need to guerilla camp. NYS  Parks and DEC Campgrounds are fairly well regulated and I doubt you will find many who would bend the rules to let you slip past the closed gates knowingly. Other than the bug issue what a great time to see the Park bud out.

[mike_khad1]

Thanks Jay and Jimbo,

I rescheduled my trip for the latter part of June - warmer, no black flies, and no worries about a place to stay.

Thanks for your help.

[JayH]

... no black flies...

Well... wouldn't exactly say "no"   it varies every year peak blackfly season... I would still bring the bugnet and stuff..

Jay

[kiarmuid]

FYI: DEC campgrounds are popular,especially on weekends.  Some are very, very popular.  Do some homework as to what maybe filled or near filled.