Cabin camping near Croghan, New York offers visitors access to the western edge of the Adirondack Park, situated at approximately 1,500 feet above sea level in Lewis County. The region experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit, making season selection crucial for cabin campers. Winter snowfall averages over 150 inches annually, creating ideal conditions for cold-weather recreation while making weatherproof accommodations particularly valuable.
What to do
Kayaking on waterways: The St. Lawrence River provides excellent paddling opportunities at Swan Bay Resort, where waterfront cabins put you steps from launching. "The park has 2 swimming pools, a tiki bar, a food truck, and nice communal hang-out areas. There's a marina with pontoon boat rentals," notes visitor Matt S.
Winter sports accessibility: Winter cabin stays accommodate snowmobilers and cold-weather enthusiasts at Old Forge Camping Resort with special seasonal services. A visitor explains: "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. The staff will help you with snow removal."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bears and deer frequent several camping areas, offering wildlife viewing from the safety of cabins. Becky M. reports from her cabin stay: "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure." Another camper noted deer that "are incredibly friendly and will walk right up to you."
What campers like
Outdoor recreation variety: The mix of water-based and land activities creates flexibility for cabin campers at Cranberry Lake Campground. Christopher describes his family's experience: "So far this has been the best campground we have experienced in NY. Cranberry Lake is massive and absolutely gorgeous. The hike up and around Bear Mountain was a good workout and fun experience for our whole family (littlest is 6)."
Evening darkness levels: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions from cabin porches or common areas. One camper at Swan Bay Resort noted, "Quite dark at night, but that was a bonus as we were able to see the Milky Way!" Another visitor at Cranberry Lake Campground reported it was "super quiet and dark 8pm until we woke up."
Year-round availability options: Some cabin rentals operate throughout winter, allowing access to seasonal activities and landscapes. Carrie H. details winter accommodation benefits: "Call them and plan a winter weekend with no worries," while noting special touches like "Valentine Weekend with chocolates and Champagne delivered to our cabin."
What you should know
Utility limitations: Cabin utilities vary significantly between locations, from primitive to deluxe. At Cedar Creek Cabin, Jason describes the setup: "They currently have 4 sites and a cabin, 30 amp electric, water to fill your tank, and a dump station. But like I said the best part is the riding and close to several local bar/restaurants that have good food and good folks."
Wildlife precautions: Bears frequently visit camping areas, requiring specific food storage protocols for cabin campers. "Beware of the bear. We had one or two in and around our camp site almost every night. Heed the warnings and lock car doors and don't leave coolers or grills out," cautions one Old Forge visitor.
Reservation windows: Peak season cabins require booking far in advance, especially waterfront locations. Carlyne F. advises: "Make sure you book far enough in advance. We typically book 1 year prior for the cottages."
Tips for camping with families
Youth program access: Cabin camping options at Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates include structured youth activities and facilities. Elizabeth B. describes: "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available, as well as day use access to the beach and high ropes course."
Playground facilities: Several cabin locations offer play areas suitable for children of various ages. "The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore," reports Nancy W. about one facility, while another campground offers "a volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards."
Beach access considerations: Water access varies greatly between cabin locations, affecting family swimming options. "Bathrooms were a short walk down the road and mostly clean. Will certainly be back!" noted Erin B. about her family's waterfront cabin experience at Wellesley Island State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Larger vehicles face navigation difficulties at some cabin campgrounds. One RVer warned: "The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns. Wide enough for travel trailers and 5th wheels but not a large class A."
Additional sleeping gear: Cabin beds may not accommodate all party members. "This campground does not have grills at the primitive tent sites. So bring your own or buy a rack for $20 at the camp store," advises Charyssa G., highlighting the need to prepare for cabin limitations.
Seasonal traffic patterns: Weekday versus weekend experiences differ dramatically in noise and crowding levels. Nancy notes: "We loved this park during the slow season and during the week when there were not kids running around and adults playing loud music and drinking constantly."
