Lake Placid / Whiteface Mtn. KOA Holiday Blog
Last Chance to Camp - Book your Adirondacks Getaway!
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
We now have 2 Check-in Locations:
Mountainside Reservations and Camp Store: 5591 NY- 86.
Riverside RV Sites and Motel Reservations: 5636 NY-86, Wilmington, NY 12997
From the South: Interstate 87, Exit 30. Left on Route 73. Right on Route 9N towards the town of Jay. Left on Route 86. Left at the stop sign. From the North: Interstate 87, Exit 34. Route 9N towards the town of Jay. Right on Route 86. Left at the stop sign.
Riverside and Motel check in is just 0.2 miles northeast on NY-86 across from the A&W Family Restaurant.
When autumn arrives in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid transforms into a breathtaking canvas of fiery reds, golden yellows, brilliant oranges, and deep greens. The crisp mountain air, sparkling lakes, winding roads, and charming small-town atmosphere make Lake Placid one of the most memorable destinations for a fall getaway in the Northeast.
Whether you're planning a weekend of leaf peeping, a scenic road trip, an outdoor adventure, or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the changing seasons, fall in Lake Placid has something for everyone.
And with Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday as your home base, it's easy to experience the beauty of the Adirondacks while enjoying the comforts of camping.
When to Visit for Peak Fall Colors
The Adirondack fall foliage season typically begins in late September, with colors progressing through the region as temperatures change and the season moves along.
In the Lake Placid area, early to mid-October is often an especially beautiful time to visit, when the surrounding mountains and forests can be filled with vibrant autumn color. Because foliage timing depends on weather, temperature, elevation, and other seasonal conditions, the exact peak can vary from year to year.
That changing landscape is part of the fun. One weekend you may find pockets of yellow and orange beginning to appear, while the next brings a spectacular display across the mountains.
If you're planning a fall getaway, consider staying several nights so you have plenty of time to explore different elevations and scenic areas.
The Best Places to See Fall Foliage Around Lake Placid
One of the best things about fall in the Adirondacks is that you don't have to go far to find beautiful scenery. From lakeside walks to mountain overlooks, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the changing leaves.
Mirror Lake
Located in the heart of Lake Placid, Mirror Lake is an easy place to enjoy fall color.
Take a leisurely walk around the lake and admire the Adirondack scenery reflected in the water. The surrounding trees create a beautiful frame for the lake, particularly on calm autumn mornings.
Bring your camera and take your time exploring. A walk around Mirror Lake is also a great way to experience the village of Lake Placid, with shops, restaurants, and cafés nearby.
Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway
For spectacular views from a higher elevation, head toward Whiteface Mountain.
The Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway provides access to some incredible Adirondack scenery and panoramic views. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up, giving you a different perspective on the colorful mountains below.
A scenic drive up Whiteface is a wonderful addition to a fall itinerary, especially for visitors who want to experience the Adirondacks without committing to a long hike.
Be sure to check seasonal operating schedules before planning your visit.
High Falls Gorge
Combine fall foliage with rushing water at High Falls Gorge.
The natural attraction features waterfalls, river views, bridges, and walkways through a beautiful Adirondack setting. During the fall, the colorful foliage creates an impressive backdrop for the gorge and its waterfalls.
It's a great option for photographers and anyone looking to experience several different types of Adirondack scenery in one outing.
Take a Scenic Fall Drive
Sometimes the best way to experience fall foliage is simply to get in the car and explore.
The Adirondacks are filled with scenic roads that wind through forests, around lakes, and over mountain passes. Keep your plans flexible and allow extra time for scenic overlooks, roadside stops, and unexpected views.
Some of the best fall memories can come from taking the scenic route rather than rushing from one destination to the next.
For a truly memorable road trip, explore the roads surrounding Lake Placid, Wilmington, Keene, and the High Peaks region. Every change in elevation can bring a different view of the autumn landscape.
Get Outside and Enjoy the Season
Fall in Lake Placid isn't just about looking at the leaves. It's also a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors.
Hiking
Cooler temperatures make autumn an excellent season for hiking. From shorter walks to more challenging mountain adventures, there are trails for a variety of experience levels.
Choose a hike that matches your ability and check trail conditions before heading out. Remember that weather can change quickly in the mountains, particularly at higher elevations.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Enjoy the fall colors from the water by heading out on a lake or pond.
Paddling gives you a completely different perspective on the Adirondack landscape. On a calm autumn day, colorful trees reflected on the water can create an incredible scene.
Fishing
Fall can also be a great time to enjoy fishing in the Adirondacks. Pack your gear, find a quiet spot, and spend a peaceful morning or afternoon surrounded by mountain scenery.
Photography
If you enjoy photography, fall provides endless opportunities.
Capture reflections on Mirror Lake, colorful mountain slopes, winding roads, waterfalls, wildlife, and the changing light of autumn. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful times to photograph the Adirondacks.
And don't forget to take a few photos simply for yourself—not every great moment needs to be posted.
Plan a Fall Weekend Getaway
You don't need a week-long vacation to experience the beauty of Lake Placid in autumn.
A long weekend can give you plenty of time to combine scenic drives, outdoor activities, foliage viewing, and time in town.
Day 1: Arrive at Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday and settle into your campsite or cabin. Spend the afternoon exploring Lake Placid and Mirror Lake.
Day 2: Take a scenic drive toward Whiteface Mountain and enjoy the mountain views. Continue exploring the surrounding area before returning to camp for a relaxing evening.
Day 3: Spend the morning hiking, paddling, visiting High Falls Gorge, or exploring another scenic destination. Finish your trip with a meal in Lake Placid before heading home.
Make Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday Your Home Base
A fall getaway is even better when you have a comfortable place to return to at the end of the day.
At Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday, you can experience the beauty of autumn while enjoying the outdoor camping experience you love.
Choose the accommodations that work best for your trip, including:
Wake up surrounded by Adirondack scenery, spend the day exploring, and return to camp in the evening to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
It's the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and a comfortable home base.
Come Chase the Colors in Lake Placid
Make your plans for a fall getaway and experience the spectacular scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm of the Adirondacks.
Stay at Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday and wake up in the heart of your fall adventure.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
