Still can't BP yet, can anyone suggest a decent Campground?

[bearmagnet]

Hi y'all. I'm coming off a long/serious illness. I was hoping my first trip out would be backpacking in the 'Dacks. But my body will not be ready anytime soon so I'm looking for a decent DEC campground. Looking for swimming and decent trails nearby. I've spent many a summers at Rollins but want to try something else out. I spent one night at Meecham (sp?) Lake and really enjoyed it but am unsure of the surrounding area.

Also are there any campgrounds that might not be very "popular"?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Boreal Chickadee]

Lake Harris-quiet and beautiful, many sites on the water

[lumberzac]

Putnum Pond comes to mind. It's located near Ticondaroga, NY and borders the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. If you feel up to some short hikes, Grizzle Ocean & Clear Ponds are fairly close by. Treadway Mountain is also close by and has great views. The climb up is fairly easy as well.

[AdRegion]

Taylor Pond is pretty quiet if you're not there on the weekend in the middle of summer. You've got a trail around the lake, Catamount Mt, Silver Lake Mt, Silver Lake Bog Nature Trail all nearby.

[Fitz]

Paradox Lake is a primo spot. Beautiful lake. Approx 60 campsites. Hike Peaked Hill across the lake. Access to Pharoh Wilderness area right across rte 74. Very close to Putnam Pond, per Lumberzac's post, but this is a good sized lake (no marina) with more campsites on the lake. There's a small island close to the campground that is great to swim off of and then soak up rays on the rocks. Usually quiet. Treadway is a nice hike with open views and no people (from Putnam pond).

[Justin]

Lake Durant campground. Lots of lake front sites and part of the NPT to Stephens and Cascade ponds.