The Adirondack region surrounding Eagle Bay sits at elevations between 1,700-2,100 feet, creating cooler camping conditions than surrounding lowlands. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer nights typically cool to the 50s even after warm days. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from May through October with limited or no winter accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer direct trail access without needing to drive. At Little Sandpoint Campground, campers can access Echo Cliffs Trail directly from the grounds. "Hike to Echo Cliffs right from the campground," notes Kyle M., highlighting the convenience of on-site hiking options.
Water recreation: The interconnected lakes and rivers provide extensive paddling opportunities. Cranberry Lake Campground features waterfront sites with boat access. One visitor reported: "We spent one night and it was super quiet and dark 8pm until we woke up. I hammocked right next to the water of Cranberry Lake."
Winter activities: While most campgrounds close for winter, some facilities remain available for cold-weather recreation. At Old Forge Camping Resort, winter visitors find specialized accommodations. "Close to skiing. 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," explains Carrie H.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Bears are frequently spotted at certain campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. As Becky M. notes about Old Forge Camping Resort: "Sites are close together and beware of the bear. We had one or two in and around our camp site almost every nite. Heed the warnings and lock car doors and don't leave coolers or grills out."
Swimming options: Natural water access varies between campgrounds, from rocky shores to sandy beaches. Lewey Lake Campground offers both lake frontage and a designated swimming area. "The beach is wonderful for kids but many sites have fantastic water access," explains Laura S.
Quiet camping: Many campgrounds maintain peaceful atmospheres despite their popularity. At Cranberry Lake, a camper observed: "This campground reminded us of summer camp on the lake, as it seemed frozen in time." Another visitor appreciated how "it was super quiet and dark 8pm until we woke up."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book quickly, often requiring reservations months in advance. At Little Sandpoint, most lakefront sites fill first. "We stayed two nights during the week. There were plenty of available sites to choose from and it was a really easy place to show up to and find a spot to settle quick," noted Erica R., who visited mid-week when availability improves.
Site variations: Campground layouts vary significantly with different privacy levels. Thornbush Acres RV Park features open sites without playground facilities. According to Debbie W.: "Camp is quite more for Adults, no playgrounds or things for kids to do. Full hook ups and pull thru sites. Not very private you are close to your neighbors."
Seasonal limitations: Most facilities operate under restricted schedules. Fort Drum Recreation Area runs from "1st May to 31st October" while Thornbush Acres opens "Mid-May thru Mid-Oct." Water systems are typically winterized by mid-October, with reduced or no services afterward.
Tips for camping with families
River recreation: Shallow river access points provide safe water play for children. At HTR Adirondacks, Karen P. described her experience with teenagers: "The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water..rain or shine that's what they did."
Playground facilities: Campground play areas vary significantly in quality and availability. HTR Adirondacks features "a nice play area for the kids" according to justina P., while Thornbush Acres has been noted as having "no playgrounds or things for kids to do."
Bathroom cleanliness: Facilities range from modern to basic across different campgrounds. Cranberry Lake offers "showers with hot water, which is timed and high pressure," notes Jacob D., while other campgrounds maintain more basic facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many rv parks near Eagle Bay, New York have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. At Spruce Creek Campground, a camper noted "sites are large" but some require careful positioning due to the terrain.
Road conditions: Campground access roads vary in quality and width. Paul G. noted that Thornbush Acres RV Park offers "basic sites with amenities. Very roomy and spacious," making it easier for larger rigs to navigate than some other facilities.
Off-season camping: Several Eagle Bay rv parks offer extended seasons for those prepared for cooler conditions. Debbie W. found Thornbush Acres "great for day trips around the area" during shoulder seasons when crowds diminish but before full winter closure.
