Cabin camping options near Cranberry Lake extend beyond the main campground. Located in the western Adirondacks at 1,558 feet elevation, the region experiences cooler temperatures even in summer months, with nighttime lows often dropping into the 40s F. Winter cabin availability varies significantly by property, with snow accumulation typically reaching 100+ inches annually.
What to do
Kayaking in quiet coves: At Fish Creek Pond Campground, the connected ponds create extensive paddling opportunities. "The water is super shallow all along the shoreline. It's perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water. The bottom is sandy with some rocks, good to have water shoes but not essential," notes one visitor.
Hiking to viewpoints: Multiple trail access points connect to larger Adirondack systems. "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!" advises a Cranberry Lake visitor.
Winter recreation: Several properties maintain cabins through snow season. At Old Forge Camping Resort, "Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available."
Swimming in clear waters: The region's lakes provide refreshing summer swimming. "A quiet campground just outside of Lake Placid," notes one visitor about wilderness cabins, while another mentions "This is a clean, well maintained campground. It was a little crowded but surprisingly quiet for the number of people."
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Unlike the waterfront sites at Cranberry Lake proper, some nearby options offer more seclusion. "Despite it being busy, it's still a fun place to camp and spend time on the water. Most of the campsites are fairly flat and spacious, and the water is great for swimming and watersports," reports a visitor at Golden Beach Campground.
Clean facilities: Across properties, bathroom quality varies significantly. "The bathrooms are kept tidy, the shower house is classic and clean, and there is an extensive recycling facility (yay for NY and ADK!). There is also a sand volleyball court and basketball hoop."
Well-maintained grounds: Consistent upkeep makes certain properties stand out. "My site was level and dry, as were the surrounding sites. There's not much brush on the sites and there are lots of old, tall trees, so I had tons of places to put up our dogs tie out, my hammock, and the clothes line."
Family traditions: Many cabin users return annually. "With around 300 campsites that surround the water, this remains one of the busiest campgrounds in the Adirondack Park. My families including my own have been camping there for several decades, so it becomes a fun family tradition and trip to look forward to each year."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall foliage transforms the region. "We try to make an annual trip here in late September, after the throngs of summer crowds have left. If you enjoy leaf-peeping, I recommend the last week of September when the colors and the mountains are just gorgeous!"
Insects are prevalent: Spring and summer bring mosquitoes. "The mosquitoes are terrible on the trails this time of year, so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts! We'll need to come back in the winter and do some snowshoeing on these trails, so we can enjoy them mosquito free."
Limited amenities: Services diminish further from towns. A camper at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake notes: "There are two wash houses with showering and bathroom amenities that are cleaned weekly. Multiple water fill stations sprinkled throughout the campground area."
Reservation requirements: Advanced planning is essential. "We did our usual reservation-less 'pull up and see what they have open' style of camping, but during the main season, this place is busy! You'll definitely need to plan ahead and make reservations if you plan to be here during the crazy season."
Tips for camping with families
Biking opportunities: Several properties feature interior roads safe for children. "Lots of kids biking and a nice trail behind the sites to walk or run. There was a coffee vendor that came through in the morning, which was kind of fun."
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow entry points benefit younger visitors. "Every site has water access, and the water is super shallow all along the shoreline. It's perfect for dogs, kids, and hanging out in the water. The bottom is sandy with some rocks."
Playground facilities: Draper's Acres and similar properties include play areas. "Nice field, swings and small playground for kids. Close to hiking and Lake Placid!" reports a visitor.
Activities for various ages: Multiple options keep different age groups engaged. "We spent two nights here with our dogs over Labor Day weekend. The site is well maintained, the bathrooms are clean, and we had plenty of privacy from our neighbors. The main trailheads were a 2-minute walk from camp."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most rustic cabins lack utilities. "My site was large enough for two double tents, a hammock, and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The office sells firewood."
Road conditions: Access roads to many properties require caution. "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires," warns one visitor to Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA.
Site selection importance: Research specific cabins before booking. "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites. The campground is clean and well kept."
Power limitations: Even sites with hookups may have restrictions. "Tent camped here several times in past few summers. Good location for major trailheads and near by lake placid keene. Tent sites are not very big. Although we comfortably fit with one vehicle."
