Cranberry Lake camping offers wilderness experiences in the northwestern Adirondacks at 1,560 feet elevation. The region features over 50,000 acres of forest preserve land with more than 40 miles of shoreline around the third-largest lake in the Adirondack Park. Camping options include designated backcountry sites, established campgrounds, and dispersed camping areas, most available from mid-May through mid-October when temperatures range from 45-80°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access the 50-mile Cranberry Lake 50 loop trail from several camping areas. "We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking. While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campground itself, they are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" notes a reviewer at Cranberry Lake Campground.
Water activities: Rent boats or bring your own to explore the extensive waterways. A camper at Birch's Lakeside Campground and Marina shares: "They have everything you need at their lakeside store, including boat and kayak rentals! The lake was beautiful, the campground was quiet and we had the best view of the stars at night (we were there during a meteor shower)."
Wildlife viewing: Look for common Adirondack species like beavers, deer, and various birds. At Cranberry Lake Campground, one visitor mentioned: "During night one we got up to run to the bathroom and did see a coyote checking out the perimeter of camp looking for food, and probably trying to figure out what new animals were nearby (our dogs), but overall we had no issues with animals approaching us."
Star gazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution. According to a reviewer at Birch's Lakeside Campground: "Star gazing is FANTASTIC!" The clear mountain air creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing, especially during new moon phases.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct lake access. "The campground reminded us of summer camp on the lake, as it seemed frozen in time. Each site has a picnic table and open grill and all sites are non-electric. We stayed in site #45, right on the edge of the lake, with great kayak access," reports a camper at Cranberry Lake Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campgrounds maintain good standards. A visitor at Fish Creek Pond Campground (about 30 miles from Cranberry Lake) noted: "This is a clean, well maintained campground. It was a little crowded but surprisingly quiet for the number of people. Lots of kids biking and a nice trail behind the sites to walk or run."
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation. At Rollins Pond Campground, a visitor observed: "It's been years since I've stayed at Rollins pond, mostly because of the long drive. (I live 5 hours away) but this year we decided we needed to revisit. We had a waterfront site and we're absolutely delighted to be able to sit on the beach and watch the sunset, kayak at our leisure, and swim."
Quiet atmosphere: The remote location ensures peaceful camping. As one camper at Birch's Lakeside Campground explained: "This was the perfect spot located on Cranberry lake. You can tell the campers truly love this place and had nothing but great things to say about the owners."
What you should know
Limited services: Prepare for minimal amenities. "The Village of Cranberry Lake has some supplies, but not much except the very basics at the general store," explains one camper.
Weather variability: Be ready for significant temperature fluctuations. A camper at Lake Eaton Campground advised: "I would caution going prior to June unless you are prepared for varying weather. I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow."
Insects: Expect mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. One visitor at Cranberry Lake noted: "Be sure to follow the rule of keeping all food in your car overnight otherwise you'll end up with a campsite visitor."
Water levels: Lake levels can change. "Since this river has many dams and is used for hydro power the water level can go up and down 2-3 feet from one day to the next. It didnt affect our kayaking fun, swimming or fishing and was intriguing," shares a camper from a nearby lake.
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Look for sites with shallow water entry. A visitor at Cranberry Lake Campground wrote: "Campground/lake views are breathtaking! Beach front area is great for families! Sites are fairly secluded!"
Hiking options: Choose family-friendly trails. "The hike up and around Bear Mountain was a good workout and fun experience for our whole family (littlest is 6). We cannot wait to get back there and camp again!" shares a camper from Cranberry Lake Campground.
Recreational activities: Take advantage of amenities for children. At Higley Flow State Park Campground, a visitor noted: "Whether it's playing in the water or in the playground this place is awesome to bring your children. The showers and restrooms were kept very clean and The Pavilions were wonderful places to have a family picnic."
Wildlife learning opportunities: Use animal sightings as educational moments. "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family," reports a camper at a nearby reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research RV-specific sites beforehand. A camper at Rollins Pond explained: "This campground is beautiful, and most of the sites are lakefront. Some sites are more spacious than others, but with the lake views, you can't complain. No hookups, so a bit trickier for rv's, but being right on the water makes it worth it."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain. One RVer noted: "Sites are varied as to size and desirability, not all are level for trailers and rv's, so do some research ahead of time to find the spot that is perfect for you."
Dump stations: Plan for limited hookup options. "Brand new sewer dump area for folks who need it," mentions a reviewer at Cranberry Lake Campground.
Generator rules: Check regulations before arrival. Most campgrounds in the area have specific generator hours or prohibit them entirely in certain sections.
