Best Campgrounds near Cranberry Lake, NY

Cranberry Lake in New York's Adirondack Park has good camping options for anyone wanting to enjoy nature without crowds. The Cranberry Lake Recreation Area has roomy campsites right by the water, which is great if you like fishing or paddling. National Forest sites around the lake offer more basic camping among the trees if you want more quiet and space to yourself. The state park has clean facilities and trails where you can see local plants and animals. Most campgrounds can be reached on normal roads, though you might need a truck or SUV for some spots. If you need to grab supplies, the City Park Campground sits close to town. County Park Campground has lots of shady spots that help when it gets hot in summer. Weather can change quickly in the Adirondacks, so bring layers and rain gear. Many people like camping here in spring and fall when it's not too hot and the trees look amazing. You can camp in winter too, but you'll need serious cold-weather gear. Always pack out what you pack in to keep the area nice. Cranberry Lake works well for both short trips and longer stays, with plenty to do in the surrounding woods. Check ahead about reservations and permits since rules vary between campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Cranberry Lake, New York (89)

    1. Cranberry Lake - DEC

    20 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (315) 848-2315

    "Cranberry Lake is located in the northwestern part of Adirondack Park. There are quite a few campgrounds here but most of them are geared toward touristy attractions that will draw in more people."

    "I hammocked right next to the water of Cranberry Lake. It has showers with hot water, which is timed and high pressure. Checkout was at 10am"

    2. Birch’s Lakeside Campground and Marina

    5 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 848-4500

    $25 - $65 / night

    "This was the perfect spot located on Cranberry lake -They have everything you need at their lakeside store, including boat and kayak rentals!"

    "Birch's Lakeside Campground has all the amenities needed to enjoy a stay in upstate New York, a general store, laundry & propane on site keep everything you need right there! "

    3. Fish Creek Pond Campground

    33 Reviews
    Tupper Lake, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-4560

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Most of the campsites at Fish Creek Pond are along the waterfront, offering easy access to the pond. Some campers even build temporary docks that they leave behind for subsequent campers."

    "Bike path, kayak rentals, close to Lake Placid Olympic center, Wild Center in Tupper Lake"

    4. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    2 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    3 miles
    Website

    "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. "

    "amazing lake for kayaking and boating.

    sites not crowded together."

    5. Rollins Pond Campground

    20 Reviews
    Tupper Lake, NY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-3239

    $20 / night

    "As it isn't too far of a drive for us, it quickly became our go-to campgrounds for quite a while due to the mostly flat campground and who doesn't love hearing the slow trickle of water splashing close"

    "It was generally quiet Memorial Day weekend, and we were able to snag a lakeside site with plenty of trees and space for our tent, SUV, and more."

    6. Lake Eaton Campground

    14 Reviews
    Long Lake, NY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 624-2641

    $20 / night

    "This time we camped along the back edge, near RT 30. There had been some bear sightings recently so i was excited. Shady spot uphill from the car. no road noise really given the proximity."

    "This campground is right on a lake where the sunrises are spectacular! Canoe and kayak rentals are available. The water is great for swimming & the beach is nice too."

    7. Carry Falls Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Childwold, NY
    12 miles

    $16 / night

    "Small and quiet campground, just about 20 miles from the Village of Tupper Lake, along the Raquette River.  "

    8. Higley Flow State Park — Higley Flow

    6 Reviews
    South Colton, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 262-2880

    $17 - $30 / night

    "Out of all of the places that I have been in New York this is by far one of my favorite places to go"

    "We usually head for the Adirondack lakes further down the road but it's still in the foot hills, close to our home and very pretty especially at sunset."

    9. Stillwater Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 785-2239

    "Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there"

    "It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite. The drive up campsite had an outhouse though so that was nice"

    10. Forked Lake Campground

    9 Reviews
    Long Lake, NY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 624-6646

    "There was a bear den close to our site that was pretty cool."

    "we came here for a night and stayed at the camp 76 by the lake. it was beautiful. definitely top 5 best campgrounds we have ever been to. they had a picnic bench and an outhouse in good condition. great"

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Recent Reviews near Cranberry Lake, NY

399 Reviews of 89 Cranberry Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Cranberry Lake

Camping near Cranberry Lake, New York, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful lakes, hiking trails, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campers love to paddle around the lakes. One reviewer at Fish Creek Pond Campground said, "We enjoy kayaking, and there is plenty of access for that here. So many of the ponds connect that you could paddle for days and not get bored."
  • Fishing: The lakes are great for fishing. A visitor at Cranberry Lake - DEC mentioned, "Beautiful state campground in the heart of the Adirondacks. Well maintained, peaceful with wonderful fishing."
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby. A camper at Lake Eaton Campground shared, "Several good hikes in the area including a 4 mi around the lake."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. One happy camper at Saranac Lake Islands said, "This lake is so peaceful and the remote islands that are only accessible by boat make this spot really special."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Golden Beach Campground noted, "Everything is clean here and it’s a convenient drive to the nearest store."
  • Wildlife: Campers enjoy the wildlife around. A family at Rollins Pond Adirondack Preserve mentioned, "We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane."

What you should know:

  • Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially in late spring. A visitor at Old Forge Camping Resort warned, "Pretty buggy during the last week of May."
  • Site Selection: Choosing the right site is important. A camper at Golden Beach Campground advised, "The further back from the lake, the more of a camping-in-the-deep-woods vibe."
  • Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A reviewer at Nicks Lake DEC said, "Make sure you book far enough in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for sites that offer privacy and space. A family at Limekiln Lake Campground enjoyed, "The sites were far enough apart where you still felt some privacy."
  • Activities for Kids: Find campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. A visitor at Nicks Lake DEC mentioned, "It has a great little swimming area and close access to a lot of activities for the kids."
  • Pack for Weather Changes: Be ready for changing weather. A camper at Rollins Pond cautioned, "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."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Old Forge Camping Resort said, "This is a VERY tight campground so 4 of us had to circle back around the entire campground."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. A visitor at Fish Creek Pond Campground appreciated, "The bathrooms are well kept, but very basic."
  • Plan for No Hookups: Many sites don’t have electric hookups. A camper at Cranberry Lake - DEC noted, "There is no sewer hookups at any of the sites, but there is a three-lane dump station for your convenience if you are in an RV."

Camping near Cranberry Lake, New York, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, connect with family, and make lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cranberry Lake, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cranberry Lake, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Cranberry Lake, NY and 16 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cranberry Lake, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cranberry Lake, NY is Cranberry Lake - DEC with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cranberry Lake, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Cranberry Lake, NY.

What parks are near Cranberry Lake, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Cranberry Lake, NY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.