The Best Adirondack Airbnbs for Lakeside Escapes, Cozy Cabins, and Mountain Adventures

These upstate stays prove everything is better among the trees.AirbnbThe Adirondacks offer one of the Northeast’s most extraordinary escapes into nature. Spanning six million acres in upstate New York, the Adirondack Park is the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. As a New Yorker hailing from the mountains, I grew up exploring its forested peaks and hidden swimming holes.I still head to the North Country several times a year—with four incredibly distinct seasons, its allure never wanes. Rental homes in the region cater to every month and intention, from remote cabins with wood-barreled saunas to lakeside cottages and sprawling mountaintop estates. Choosing where to stay comes down to the experience you’re after: a quiet hideaway deep in the woods, a summer trip against crystal-clear waters, or an adventure base near some of the East’s most dramatic peaks? Whatever your ideal balance of luxury and rustic charm, there’s an Airbnb here to match it. Read on for the best vacation rentals in the Adirondacks for the perfect nature-filled stay.We've selected these listings based on Superhost and Guest Favorite status, ratings, amenities, location, decor, editor stays, and previous guest reviews.Our top picksMore editor-recommended AirbnbsFrequently asked questionsOur top picks:Best for waterfront access: Lakeside home with a private beachBest for cozy forest vibes: Compact cabin in the forestBest for an après-ski abode: Spacious ski lodge with views of the slopeBest for a classic cabin escape: Rustic log cabin with a separate studio and lean-to shedHistoric boathouse on Fourth LakeNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Private waterfront, two boat slips, firepit, lean-to shed, kayaks, canoe, fishing equipmentTrade your alarm clock for the gentle rhythm of water lapping beneath this private overwater haven. This 1916 boathouse on Fourth Lake promises upstate tranquility with seamless access to adventure, courtesy of on-site kayaks, a canoe, and a boat slip. The century-old home feels anything but stale, with crisp white walls and black trimmings in the open-concept kitchen and dining room. It’s tucked away in Old Forge, an ideal location for paddling and swimming through the picturesque waterways of the Adirondacks.Location: Old ForgeThings to do nearby: Shops and restaurants in downtown Old Forge, downtown Inlet, Moose River, hiking trailsRustic log cabin with a separate studio and lean-to shedNumber of guests: 10Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathsWhy we love it: Cedar sauna, barrel hot tub, swimming hole, pet-friendly, clawfoot tubs, indoor and outdoor fireplacesThis storybook log cabin is awash in retro-alpine decor grounded by custom woodwork, creating a homey, nostalgic take on classic Adirondack style. Guests have access to two additional buildings: a studio cabin complete with its own bathroom, and a traditional lean-to shed insulated for winter use. Although Whiteface Mountain—an Olympic alpine skiing location—is just a short, scenic drive away, there’s plenty of temptation to keep you lingering on the property, from the cedar sauna to the barrel hot tub.Location: Upper JayThings to do nearby: Whiteface Mountain Ski Area, downtown Keene, hiking trails, Hungry Trout Restaurant, Ice Jam Inn & RestaurantLakeside home with a private beachNumber of guests: 13Bed and bath: 6 bedrooms, 2 bathsWhy we love it: Private beach, private dock, kayaks, canoe, sun deckLake George is one of the finest spots in the Adirondacks thanks to the crystal-clear waters and soaring peaks. This six-bedroom estate places guests right up against its shimmering shores. With two kayaks, a canoe, and a private dock to accommodate boat rentals, you’ll have all the gear you need to explore the lake’s turquoise coves and secluded islands. The six bedrooms sleep up to 13 across one king bed, two queens, two doubles, and three singles. Downtown Lake George’s delightfully kitschy mini golf courses, sweet shops, and hearty restaurants are just a short walk away.Location: Lake GeorgeThings to do nearby: Shops, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Lake George; Fort William Henry Museum; Lake George Steamboat CompanyFour-story mountaintop mansionNumber of guests: 16Bed and bath: 8 bedrooms, 7 bathsWhy we love it: Heated floors, pet-friendly, access to resort amenities, panoramic mountaintop viewsFor a grand celebration or a relaxing getaway with 15 of your closest friends, this 12,000-square-foot mountaintop home can’t be beat. It sits on the summit of a former ski area, with more windows than walls for taking in panoramic Adirondack views. Luxurious touches like a retro-chic bathtub, heated floors, and an elevator raise this home far beyond your typical alpine abode. Guests also have access to amenities at the greater NewVida resort at the base of the mountain, including a restaurant, bar, gym, and spa.Location: WilmingtonThings to do nearby: Whiteface Mountain Ski Area, downtown Lake Placid, High Falls GorgeCompact cabin in the forestNumber of guests: 6Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Finnish sauna, private brook, dedicated workspace, loft net, EV chargerForest bathers will find their perfect home base in this modern hideaway. The cabin’s minimalist decor and compact build let Keene’s quiet woods set the atmosphere. Lounge in the lofted hammock space, or step even further into the wilderness beside a lake-fed stream. A separate sauna house can be used for dry or steam heat, perfect for winding down after a day spent roaming the area’s many trails on bikes, skis, snowshoes, or foot.Location: KeeneThings to do nearby: Restaurants and shops in Keene, Cascade Lake, High Peaks trailheadsSporty home in Lake PlacidNumber of guests: 14Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 7 bathsWhy we love it: Tennis court, pickleball court, pool, hot tub, private pond, in-home theater, gymIn-home activities are endless at this five-bedroom house near Lake Placid, one of the most charming and historic towns in the Adirondacks. A tennis court, pickleball court, gym, ping-pong table, hot tub, and pool (complete with a waterslide!) leave little reason to venture off the property, though Main Street Lake Placid’s many restaurants and shops will surely beckon. The interior design overflows with natural textures, from tree-trunk bed frames to stone fireplaces, and up to 14 can comfortably sleep across the five bedrooms, including a bunk room for kids.Location: Lake PlacidThings to do nearby: Whiteface Mountain Ski Area, downtown Lake Placid, hiking trailsSecluded cabin for wildlife spottingNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Kayaks, canoe, pet-friendly, hammock, binocularsWhether curled up in front of the stone fireplace or stretched out on the hammock, you’ll be treated to views of Piseco Lake’s vibrant wilderness at this cozy retreat. A written guide to the area’s many hiking trails will greet you upon arrival, along with a spotting scope and binoculars for wildlife watching. Guests also have access to a canoe and four kayaks for paddling the placid waters, though mornings will surely be spent sipping from steamy mugs on the Adirondack chairs. A queen bedroom and a double bedroom make it ideal for families or two couples.Location: PisecoThings to do nearby: The Oxbow Inn restaurant, hiking trails, fishing, paddle sportsSpacious ski lodge with views of the slopeNumber of guests: 12Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathsWhy we love it: Wraparound porch, fenced-in yard, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, pet-friendlyGore Mountain is the largest ski area among New York State’s 50-plus resorts. This classic Adirondack home offers both proximity to the winter-sport wonderland and views of the slopes from a sweeping wall of glass windows. A stone fireplace soars to the great room’s vaulted, honey-toned wood ceilings. Outside on 10 private acres of land, a large wraparound porch and fenced-in yard offer space for summertime lounging between hikes and scenic cycling trips.Location: North CreekThings to do nearby: Gore Mountain ski resort, Revolution Rail, rafting, Lake Minerva BeachRomantic lakeside cottageNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 2 bathsWhy we love it: Hot tub, indoor and outdoor fireplace, kayaks, pet-friendlyPerched on a hillside in the southwestern gateway town of Remsen, this romantic cottage stands out against evergreen verdure and quietly fits into the snow-covered landscape come winter. The patio’s hot tub and fire table make the outdoors inviting year-round, while clear skies reveal an endless canopy of stars. Inside, crisp white interiors and a plush king-size bed create a light and calming sanctuary for resting and recharging.Location: RemsenThings to do nearby: Hiking, Woods Valley Ski Area, Herkimer Diamond Mines, snowmobilingConvenient home on a quiet lakeNumber of guests: 8Bed and bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathsWhy we love it: Pedal boat, paddleboard, floaties, wraparound deck, reading nookJust three-and-a-half-hours from New York City, this four-bedroom retreat in the southeastern Adirondacks is one of the easiest places to reach by car from the Big Apple. The spacious lakeside sanctuary feels remote while offering easy access to the region’s abundance of family-friendly activities, including rafting tours and an amusement park. In the backyard, vibrant green grass gives way to a sandy beach before meeting the lake’s calm waters. With four bedrooms (two kings, a queen, and a room with two singles), it’s the perfect landing pad for a family or multigenerational get-together.Location: Lake LuzerneThings to do nearby: Rafting, snowmobiling, Saratoga Springs Race Track, Great Escape Theme ParkBright country cabin in Saranac LakeNumber of guests: 12Bed and bath: 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathsWhy we love it: Wraparound deck, hot tub, sauna, firepit, children’s playroomSet against a stretch of uninterrupted forest, this bright five-bedroom home (three kings, a queen, and a room with a queen and two singles) pairs the serenity of seclusion with easy access to beloved Adirondack adventures. Bright knotty pine interiors give the home a sunny feel. Come nightfall, the opportunity to stargaze around the firepit is not to be missed. Despite the profound privacy, the home is only a 10-minute drive from Saranac Lake, a village where wilderness heritage meets an artistic spirit.Location: Saranac LakeThings to do nearby: Golf courses, Adirondack Lakes & Trails Outfitter, snowmobiling, Cascade Cross Country Ski CenterFAQ:Where are the best places to stay in the Adirondacks?Spanning six million acres, the Adirondacks have no shortage of places to stay. Travelers coming from New York City or elsewhere south of the park may prefer the shorter haul to locations along its southern edge, like nostalgic Lake George in the southeast or quiet Piseco in the southwest. Venturing further north, however, brings easier access to the High Peaks Wilderness, where many of the Adirondacks’ most coveted hiking trails, paddling routes, and ski slopes await. Places like Keene, Lake Placid, and Saranac Lake make great home bases for hiking, skiing, and cycling.It’s also worth considering how close you’d like to be to a town. While there are no large cities in the Adirondacks, villages like Lake Placid and Lake George become lively during the high seasons, while others remain quiet year-round. If you’re looking for true solitude, choose a home tucked away from the main streets—and expect cell service to be unreliable in the park’s most remote corners.When is the best time to visit the Adirondacks?The best time to visit the Adirondacks depends entirely on what you want to do there. Summer is the peak season for jumping into swimming holes, feasting on “Michigans”—a North Country favorite featuring steamed hot dogs smothered in meat sauce—and soft serve, and canoeing the glass-surfaced waters of mountain lakes. For temperate hikes, fiery mountain vistas, and post-summit stops at farm stands, fall is the best time to head to the North Country. Winter, of course, belongs to the skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and snowmobilers, who explore the region’s endless snow-coated trails and shimmering peaks—but ‘tis also the season to sink into steaming hot tubs at secluded log cabins. Spring is another great choice for hikers and bikers looking for more moderate temperatures, plus birders and rafters in search of the fiercest whitewater waves.Lydia Price is a Brooklyn-based travel writer, editor, and producer. She has over a decade of experience as a multi-platform journalist, including as the host of an Emmy-nominated special. Still an Adirondack girl at heart, she focuses on outdoor, wellness, and wildlife experiences. Her work can also be found in ... 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