Dispersed camping options surround Caroga Lake in the southern Adirondack region, with sites scattered throughout nearby forest lands. Elevations range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet, contributing to cooler evening temperatures even in summer months. Most primitive sites require campers bring their own water and pack out all trash.
What to do
Water activities at Cedar Lake: Access the reservoir through several primitive campsites around Cedar River Entrance Camping. Matthew D. mentions, "Beautiful surroundings. There is a small landing to launch kayaks or canoes. A dam with some additional sites on the other side."
Mountain biking access: Ushers Road State Forest offers direct trail connections from camping areas. According to The L., "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
Fishing opportunities: North Lake Reservoir provides shoreline fishing access from multiple sites around the 32-site camping area. J B. notes, "Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean."
What campers like
Quick registration process: E16 Canal Lock simplifies arrival procedures. Mona M. reports, "Upon arrival, campers must scan the QR code at the entrance and complete a brief survey. RVs and travel trailers are not permitted."
Lake views from sites: North Lake Reservoir impresses visitors with its waterfront camping options. Ashlee C. shares, "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake."
Privacy between campsites: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off offers separation from neighboring campers. Taylor A. confirms, "The site has its own private road. You can hear cars from the site but the cars can't see you-loved this!"
What you should know
Vehicle limitations: Several sites restrict vehicle types due to narrow access roads. At Cod Pond, Josie W. advises, "Site was big enough to pull our mid-size SUV down and unfold rooftop-tent, but we did have to back out in the morning; not enough room to turn around."
Navigation challenges: Forest roads can confuse first-time visitors to tent camping areas near Caroga Lake. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, J B. cautions, "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Distance from supplies: Most remote sites require advance planning for provisions. When visiting Cedar River Entrance Camping, Matthew D. notes, "Town is about 20-30 minutes away. Several trails nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Basic facilities: Stony Creek Family Campground provides family-friendly amenities not found at most dispersed sites. Elizabeth P. states, "It's a nice family ran campground. We love it here and plan to come back!"
Terrain assessment: Tent platforms at most sites require careful selection. At Cod Pond, Taylor A. warns, "Ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc."
Insect considerations: Lakeside sites experience increased mosquito activity throughout summer. According to Taylor A., "There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night. The bugs were terrible."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for vehicles: Murphy Lake Leanto area requires specific planning for those with vehicles. Tony F. explains, "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. And you have to earn it on foot, bike or other. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks."
Forest road conditions: Access roads to tent camping areas around Caroga Lake deteriorate after rain. At North Lake Reservoir, campers report the terrain "transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
Electrical considerations: Most dispersed sites lack hookups, requiring self-contained power solutions. At Cedar River Entrance Camping, expect only basic amenities such as "picnic table, fire ring and several outhouses nearby" according to Matthew D.
