149 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Caroga Lake, New York provides a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas within the southern Adirondack region. Caroga Lake Campground, located directly on State Highway 29A, offers tent and RV sites with hookups, while DevilDoc Campsites provides more rustic camping experiences with tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options. The surrounding area features several mixed-use campgrounds including Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground and Royal Mountain Campsites, both offering cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping. Most developed campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically from May through September or October.
Access to camping areas varies significantly with the seasons, as many campgrounds close during winter months due to harsh Adirondack weather conditions. Caroga Lake Campground operates from May 19 to September 30, while nearby Royal Mountain Campsites runs from May 12 to October 9. Most established sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity. The region experiences typical northeastern seasonal patterns with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, so advance planning is recommended. According to one visitor at Caroga Lake Campground, "Our site was bordered by a small stream so expect mosquitoes and the occasional visit from wildlife. We had raccoons at our site each night, so kept food in the car."
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Caroga Lake area. Northampton Beach Campground, situated on the Great Sacandaga Lake about 15 miles east of Caroga Lake, receives consistently high ratings for its lakeside sites and swimming areas. A camper noted it as "one of my favorite campgrounds" with "many campsites with lakeside access." Several campgrounds in the area feature fire pits, picnic tables, and varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service. DevilDoc Campsites has been described by visitors as offering a more immersive natural experience with pond-side camping and private sites spread across wooded property. The mix of state-operated and privately-owned campgrounds provides options ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV camping and cabin rentals, accommodating different camping preferences and budgets.
"My buddy and I were looking for a campsite for a quick overnight stay before a bike trip around the Adirondacks, and this spot was a perfect fit."
"He and his buddy, Rick, live on acres and acres of forested property, with my favorite campsites located at a seemingly magical pond surrounded by beautiful pine and birch trees."
from $15 - $25 / night
Check Availability"This site also is bordered by a small stream so expect mosquitoes and the occasional visit from wildlife (we had raccoons at our site each night, so kept food in the car)."
"It is also conveniently situated for a variety of nearby hikes."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Along with staying at this peaceful wooded campground, one can “mine” Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals adjacent to the campground via a bridge over the stream. I enjoyed a site next to the stream."
"A fine campground with it's own Herkimer Diamond Mine walking distance (or you can drive up your vehicle) to the mining area. A fairly small, nicely wooded campground."
"MANY campsites with lakeside access, although do pay attention to the time of year as the water level can drop considerably over the summer. large swimming area and great fishing."
"Lots of bike riding and walking. Couple nice general stores that are reasonably priced AND a miniature golf place right outside of the entrance."
from $22 - $40 / night
Check Availability"The ice cream shop at the entrance was a huge bonus. We both ordered a small and it was near enough to consider a full meal! A very pleasant stay!"
"Plenty to see nearby or just stay in. Truly loved camping here and will go back if the option ever presents itself again."
"The land is next to a river. They keep it mowed and it went on for a while. The dogs enjoyed the walk!"
"Upon arrival my husband told the owner that we had never set up before and he came and walked us through the whole process. He also gave us tips on equipment to get etc."
from $25 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area."
"It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."
"This campground has a variety of offering including tent sites and RV, great swimming locations at many of the sites and there is a public beach with life-guards on duty a stones throw away!"
"Old growth abounds, surrounded by Maple, Oak, and massive White Pine making for an understory mostly clear of vegetation. Making for a secluded feel, but not claustrophobic."
"The campsites are secluded, and the surrounding areas are beautiful."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"A train track is close by so it can be kind of noisy."
"Only drawback is steady stream of trains going by around the clock. I didn’t mind by my wife didn’t sleep well."
TravelerThis is a quick and easy pull off that is large enough to accommodate most vehicles. Only con which wasn’t that big of an issue was that you are close to the road, so any vehicles going by which wasn’t many you would hear. Besides that you are in dark and quiet state forest. I would recommend this to someone for a quick overnight stay rather than an extended stay.
TravelerThis area has two drive-up camping spots each with a picnic table and fire pit. One site is on the lake side of the small road which had very few other drivers. This lakeside spot has small paths to access the shore and decent shade. The other site, about a quarter mile down the road, is tucked into the woods and feels more private. It has a more open view of the lake and paths across the road to access the water. This site is a little muddier in rainy weather and gets more sun.
Some road noise from the highway here but amazing view of the stars at night!
These sites have no running water or bathrooms, however there is both a gas station and port-a-potty about two miles east, though both sites have some woods access that give you privacy (though any waste should be packed out as this area is surrounded by water).
Suprisingly good AT&T coverage, between one and three bars. Sometimes slow but eventually loads.
There is also a boat trailer parking/unloading area between the two sites.
The old route 28 & 30 road is very gravely and uneven - drive slow!
ScoutSpaces were easy in/out. Mature trees between sites. Pool, office, pickleball, k9kamp, bathrooms were all nice.
LegendHad an overnight stay here and it was really peaceful. The reservoir had been drained but it was still lovely to look out across the property. You definitely can’t beat $30 for an electric site! Restrooms were a bit dated but clean. Staff was very friendly. Our site was spacious and next to a short walking trail through the trees.
LegendWhat an amazing find! This was a perfect location for the first 2 days of our vacation. Steve and Michelle were incredibly accommodating and wonderful hosts! We truly enjoyed our stay and will definitely return!
ScoutAlways have a good time, staff is always friendly. Ive been coming here since i was a kid my grandparents always had a seasonal here.
ScoutThis is a very pleasant campground just a couple of miles off the interstate. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Full hookups at most sites. Many amenities available. A very quiet setting to rest and repose. Highly recommended!
GuideGot a super site almost level with the water. Went for a swim. Oddly, the lake has no plant life, but a sand bottom. Lots of ducks. Many people enjoying the shallow warm water on kayaks and such. Most sites level. The bathrooms did not offer hot water, or any way to dry your hands .They were clean, and enough to go around. The showers on the other hand were quite distant. A 5 minute walk . But clean, and plentiful. I guess better that than dirty and close by? No hiking trails is a letdown, but here its all about the lake.
RangerShadey lakeside campground with large sites, mine has easy lake access.
Dispersed camping near Caroga Lake, New York occurs primarily in the Adirondack Forest Preserve lands surrounding the lake area, with limited official dispersed sites but several unofficial camping spots along forest roads. The southern Adirondack region sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Most dispersed campers utilize the areas off Route 29A and County Highway 112 where roadside pull-offs accommodate tent camping.
Fishing opportunities: The Caroga Lake area offers excellent fishing in both East and West Caroga Lakes, with many campgrounds providing direct water access. At Little Sandpoint Campground, visitors can rent kayaks for water exploration. "They rent out kayaks for $20 for 24 hours which in my opinion is a total steal," notes one visitor.
Hiking to viewpoints: Several trails accessible directly from camping areas provide rewarding views with minimal driving. One camper at Little Sandpoint mentioned, "The short but steep trail to Echo Cliffs within walking distance was my favorite part because it was so close and you could see Piseco Lake below."
Diamond mining: Located about 20 miles from Caroga Lake, Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground offers a unique activity where campers can search for Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals. A visitor shared, "Along with staying at this peaceful wooded campground, one can 'mine' Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals adjacent to the campground via a bridge over the stream."
Waterfront access: Many campsites in the region provide direct lakefront access for swimming and launching personal watercraft. At Northampton Beach Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to Great Sacandaga Lake. One reviewer noted, "Drive your boat up to your campsite," highlighting the convenience for boaters.
Privacy between sites: Unlike crowded commercial campgrounds, several camping areas in the Caroga Lake region offer well-spaced sites. At DevilDoc Campsites, a visitor explained, "The campsites themselves are huge - this isn't a state park site where you're smushed on top of your neighbor."
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution in the Adirondack region creates ideal conditions for stargazing. A DevilDoc Campsites visitor mentioned, "You'll fall asleep to the sounds of bull frogs, oh and the star gazing is pretty darn nice as well!"
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the Caroga Lake area have limited seasons, typically closing between mid-September and mid-October. Royal Mountain Campsites operates from May 12 to October 9, representative of the typical camping season in the region.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife activity, particularly at night. Campers should store food securely. A reviewer at DevilDoc Campsites cautioned, "We had tons of privacy as it is well clear of the host's home and neighbors. There's quite a bit of clutter and discarded stuff as we arrived a few days after a bonfire party."
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can change significantly throughout the season, affecting waterfront sites. A Northampton Beach visitor observed, "MANY campsites with lakeside access, although do pay attention to the time of year as the water level can drop considerably over the summer."
Swimming areas: Beaches with designated swimming areas provide safer options for families with children. Northampton Beach Campground receives consistently positive feedback for its swimming facilities. A visitor commented, "Nice sites at this campground. A lot of water sites that are very spacious with a beautiful view."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment to keep children entertained. Spruce Creek Campground offers "a small playground available, the creek which both boys swam/waded in and our older son went fishing."
Ice cream proximity: Royal Mountain Campsites features an ice cream shop that doubles as the campground office. A family noted, "The 'office' is an ice cream shop off the side of the road that all the locals apparently love based on lines and what we tasted!"
Electric hookup availability: While many campgrounds advertise electric hookups, amperage can vary significantly between sites. At Royal Mountain Campsites, an RVer reported, "Website stated sites were 30Amp so very happy to have found 50Amp upon arrival!"
Assistance with setup: First-time RVers may find campgrounds with helpful staff particularly valuable. At Spruce Creek Campground, one visitor shared, "Upon arrival my husband told the owner that we had never set up before and he came and walked us through the whole process. He also gave us tips on equipment to get etc."
Road conditions: Some campground access roads present challenges for larger RVs. A Spruce Creek camper warned, "Not good for larger rigs, largest site was too short for mine. Pot holes in the campground road are so bad that it caused damage to my trailer."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve a campsite at Caroga Lake in New York?
To reserve a campsite at Caroga Lake in New York, visit the New York State Parks reservation system at reserveamerica.com or call 1-800-456-CAMP. Reservations typically open 9 months in advance, and it's recommended to book early, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Similar to Eighth Lake Campground and Delta Lake State Park Campground, you can choose sites based on size, proximity to water, and whether you need electric hookups. A non-refundable reservation fee applies in addition to the nightly camping fee.
What amenities are available at Caroga Lake Campground?
Caroga Lake Campground offers amenities similar to other Adirondack state campgrounds. You can expect bathroom facilities, showers, and a dump station. For water activities, there's likely boat access and swimming areas. Most Adirondack campgrounds like Pine Lake Campground and RV Park near Caroga Lake provide water access, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. For more extensive amenities, Lake George RV Park about an hour away offers premium facilities including full hookups, WiFi, and recreational activities, though at a higher price point than state campgrounds.
What do reviews say about Caroga Lake Campground?
Reviews of Adirondack campgrounds near Caroga Lake are generally positive. Visitors to Golden Beach Campground praise the beautiful sunsets and flexible site layouts, which would be similar to what you might experience at Caroga Lake. Lake Durant Campground receives compliments for its early fall colors and peaceful atmosphere. Campers appreciate the affordability of state park campgrounds compared to private options. Many reviewers note that Adirondack campgrounds offer a good balance of natural surroundings while still being accessible to nearby towns for supplies and activities.
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