International Paper John Dillon Park

What to expect

John Dillon Park is a wilderness experience like no other. Offering accessible camping, fishing, and 3.5 miles of accessible trails to explore. Half an hour south of Tupper Lake, and 10 minutes north of Long Lake. The park is open from 9 am – 6 pm. The gate will be closed during off hours.

When you arrive you will pass by a beautiful gate with a woodland scene. Drive down the 2 mile dirt and gravel road. It’s important to go slow, watch for other vehicles and wildlife, and take it all in. You are now truly in the forest.

At the end of the 2 mile road, will be the Welcome Center. Whether you’re there for the day, or overnight for camping, it is important to check in at the Welcome Center. 

Those who are there for overnight camping should make a reservation 24 hours prior. The Welcome Center has running bathrooms available, maps and other JDP and regional information available. There are carts available to borrow to help transport your gear to the site. If you are not able to bring your gear to your lean-to due to functional differences, please request assistance with the staff.  If you have a medical device that requires electricity, please request a battery on your reservation and mark on the Registration form at check in.

There are 9 lean-tos, each with their own distinct character, and 1 tent-site. One lean-to is accessible by car, it is the only stand alone lean-to. The rest are set up side-by-side with a shared outhouse, including our backcountry sites that are 2.5 miles away on Handsome Pond. Arranged to provide privacy, yet still big enough for a larger group to be together. Each  lean-to will sleep about four people comfortably. 

Each lean-to site has wheelchair accessible ramp into the lean-to, an accessible picnic table, and ADA certified accessible fire ring with a swing away grill. Firewood including kindling, is provided (please be mindful and only use what is needed and avoid excessive burning). Each site has an outhouse with an accessible toilet and railing to help ease transfers. We have bear proof storage boxes for food and trash. The staff will handle trash removal.

There is a canoe/kayak dock, where you can drop your own boat in the water. There is also a pontoon boat that can be booked for a tour of Grampus Lake. The reservation site can be used to book a boat ride, you can stop in at the Welcome Center. Grampus Lake is 1 mile long and a boat ride usually last about 30-45 minutes. There’s also a fishing dock that you can bring your own poles and catch fish. The viewing platform overlooks the lake and offers a perfect place to see arguably the most beautiful sunsets in the Adirondacks.

If stargazing is your thing, our viewing platforms and docks provide a clear view of the stars without any light pollution whatsoever.