Dispersed camping around Cranberry Lake, New York offers remote forest sites within the 81,000-acre Cranberry Lake Wild Forest. This northwestern Adirondack region sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with dense evergreen forests surrounding the 7,000-acre lake. Summer temperatures range from 50-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms requiring waterproof gear even during dry spells.
What to do
Paddle island campsites: Saranac Lake Islands provides boat-in camping on secluded islands. "We camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row. The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place! The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated," notes Joanna H. at Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve Campground.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings offer optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of loons, toads and fish" reports Angela from Saranac Lake Islands. Many campers spot beaver activity at dusk around ponds, with tracks from deer and occasionally moose visible on muddy trails after rain.
Mountain hiking: Access High Peaks trails directly from some campgrounds. At Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," notes Hannah O. Many trails connect tent camping areas to summit routes with elevation gains of 1,000-3,000 feet.
What campers like
Island solitude: Remote tent camping at Cranberry Lake offers exceptional privacy. "Pretty much had an entire island to ourselves and got to enjoy the beautiful saranac lake," reports Erin T. about her experience at Saranac Lake Islands. Island sites often have no visible neighbors.
Swimming access: Natural swimming areas provide relief from summer heat. At Tioga Point Campground, "The campsites are private and you can enjoy the beach with crystal clear water. Fishing is great," according to Lee W. Most lakeside camping areas have gradual entry points for wading.
Rock formations: Distinctive glacial boulders create natural features at many sites. "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out," reports Mary B. about Seventh Lake Primitive Camping. "Look for a HUGE rock and there will be a sign that reads camp here."
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at all tent camping sites near Cranberry Lake. Food canisters are essential equipment. "My husband family has been going there since the 60s... watch out for the neighborly bears," warns Lee W. about Tioga Point Campground.
Access challenges: Many prime camping spots require boat transportation. "We kayaked all of our gear out to the island. It was a few days before 4th of July so it was a very busy time to be in 4th lake making the lake very choppy," cautions Sarah B. from Alger Island Adirondack Preserve.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing even in summer. "We braved the 12° nights and pitched a tent," shares Laura Nicole A. about Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake. Nights can drop below 45°F even in July.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow entry points work best for families with young children. "We jumped from the rocks and swam and played games," shares Molly G. about her family experience at Saranac Lake Islands. Sites with gradual shorelines offer safer swimming.
Toilet considerations: Facilities vary widely across tent camping areas. "Outhouse was a little rough around the edges, but doable," notes Angela about Saranac Lake Islands. Many primitive sites have no facilities, requiring portable toilet solutions for families.
Multiple-site planning: For larger family groups, adjacent sites may be necessary. At Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites, "Site #4 is very large and could be occupied by a large group and multiple vehicles," explains Dylan J., making it suitable for family reunions.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Few tent camping areas near Cranberry Lake accommodate RVs. "Site #1 is near the entrance and near the road. It is the only site that would be accessible for larger rigs such as an RV," notes Dylan J. about Jones Pond NYSDEC Primitive Campsites. Most sites require tents or small vans.
Rough access roads: Unpaved routes challenge larger vehicles. "The two track access road is rough and all dirt," warns Dylan J. regarding Jones Pond. Most forest roads lack maintenance and develop deep ruts after rain.
Alternative accommodations: Consider cabin options when RV access is limited. At Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates Inc, "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available," explains Elizabeth B., providing alternatives to traditional tent camping near Cranberry Lake.
