Camping cabins near Indian Lake, New York offer unique lodging options in the central Adirondacks at elevations ranging from 1,650 to 1,800 feet. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with winter lows frequently dropping below zero and summer highs reaching the 80s. Most cabin rentals in this region require advance booking, especially during peak fall foliage season from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Kayaking on interconnected waterways: Fish Creek Pond Campground provides exceptional water access with shallow entry points perfect for launching kayaks and canoes. "So many of the ponds connect that you could paddle for days and not get bored. We always go for a spot that has easy, shallow access to the lake, some are steeper to maneuver," notes Cyndi B. about Fish Creek Pond Campground.
Winter snowmobiling: Old Forge Camping Resort remains open year-round with heated cabin options specifically catering to winter sports enthusiasts. "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," reports Carrie H. about Old Forge Camping Resort.
Hiking with trail access: Many campsites serve as gateways to Adirondack trails. "Behind the 100-Acre section are trails that lead to Whiteface Mountain so you don't have to get in the car to start a hike," explains Nancy W. at Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday.
What campers like
Lakefront sites with water access: Many visitors prioritize waterfront cabins and sites. "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, good to have water shoes but not essential," shares Oleńka S. at Fish Creek Pond.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Basic amenities matter significantly to cabin campers. "There are clean bath houses everywhere and one shower building on the west side of Square Pond. I was surprised by the number of bathrooms, you'll never be far from one while camping here," notes another reviewer at Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake.
River tubing opportunities: Water recreation beyond lakes is popular. "They rent tubes; they have a heated pool, a couple different playgrounds and an arcade for those rainy days," explains Jake H. about Medcalf Acres Riverfront Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal variations affect booking: Availability changes dramatically with seasons. "We stayed at site #68 on the water. Beautiful views and morning sun. There is a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline. Each site has a fireplace and table. Some water sites have a steeper path to the water. Cell service is iffy," advises Lauren S. about Rogers Rock Campground.
Wildlife precautions required: Bears are common in the region. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," warns Becky M. at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Not all campgrounds offer the same level of facilities. "They only have one bathroom with showers; and the rest are porta-potties," notes Jake H. about Medcalf Acres, while other properties offer full shower houses and flush toilets.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and organized activities: Some properties offer structured recreation for children. "There are SO MANY activities in this area. Archery was awesome!" explains Kimberly S. at Lake George Escape Campground.
Consider beach quality for swimming: Sandy beaches with shallow entries work best for young children. "This is a beautiful place to camp. The water is an amber/gold color and the beaches are sand. They have a boat launch for kayaks which came in handy during my stay," shares Dinah V. about Golden Beach Campground.
Check cabin size requirements: Space constraints vary significantly between properties. "The tent we stayed in was gorgeous! We fit 5 of us comfortably. Linens, blankets and pillows were provided," explains Christina M. about glamping options at Lake George Escape.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for leveling: Not all cabins or RV sites are created equal. "Campsites are unremarkable but not in bad way. Very generic DEC campground, facilities are clean and well maintained. Nice swimming area, smallish day use area," explains Robert L. about Moffitt Beach Campground.
Check cabin winterization: Winter cabin campers should verify heating systems. "The staff will help you with snow removal and we have even had Valentine Weekend with chocolates and Champagne delivered to our cabin," notes a reviewer at Old Forge Camping Resort.
Verify hookup availability: Cabin campers often bring RVs. "We have a rather large rig (36 ft fifth wheel plus the truck) & while fish creek is notoriously a tent only/small rig campground we fit perfectly & our site has cell service! 10/10! Site 106!" shares Bella S. about Fish Creek Pond.
