Campsites near Lake Pleasant, New York sit at elevations between 1,700-2,000 feet, contributing to overnight temperatures that can dip into the 40s even during summer months. The region receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forest conditions throughout the camping season. Cell service remains inconsistent across most campground locations outside established towns, with T-Mobile coverage particularly limited.
What to do
Kayaking from your site: Many waterfront locations at Lewey Lake Campground allow campers to launch directly from their sites. As one visitor mentioned, "There are several sites right on the lake and you can pull your canoe or kayak right up to your site." Multiple bodies of water connect, providing full-day paddling options.
Rock hopping along streams: The Sacandaga River flows through Sacandaga Campground, creating opportunities for stream exploration. "The river flows right through the middle, giving a nice ambiance with the rush of the water. It also gives opportunities to rock hop up and downstream, a dip to cool off, or float downstream," notes one visitor who appreciated the natural water features.
Mountain biking nearby: Local forests offer extensive trail networks for cyclists. "The PeckHill state forest is close by for mountain biking. You can park at the trailhead on CR 101, or at Stump City brewing, to ride the trails," reports a visitor to DevilDoc Campsites, pointing to specific access points for riders.
What campers like
Private island camping: Indian Lake Islands Campground provides rare boat-in opportunities for complete seclusion. One camper shared, "A group of us put up two tents on a small, somewhat secluded, island on Indian Lake and had the time of our lives." Sites require 15-25 minute boat trips from the marina or ranger station.
Early morning fog views: Weather patterns in the area create distinctive morning conditions. A camper at Northampton Beach Campground noted, "Large sites on huge lake perfect for kayaking. Few bugs." The morning mist rising off Great Sacandaga Lake creates photography opportunities between 5-7am during summer months.
Stream-side sites: Campsites along moving water provide natural white noise. "We picked a site that is right along Sucker Brook. The sites 205-174 are all along the brook and the sound at night is really relaxing for sleeping," reported a visitor to Lewey Lake Campground who found the specific site numbers worth noting for future visitors.
What you should know
Sealed food containers required: Bear activity necessitates strict food storage protocols across the region. One camper at Lewey Lake warned, "This is a bear area (we didn't see any) but I have to emphasize that you HAVE to keep all your food covered in a sealed container." Many campers report mice issues when food is left in vehicles without secure containers.
Primitive toilet facilities: Many smaller campgrounds have basic facilities. A visitor to Cedar River Entrance Camping observed, "There are many outhouses, a picnic table, and a fire ring close by." Expect vault toilets rather than flush facilities at more remote locations.
Unpredictable road conditions: Forest access roads can challenge some vehicles. "The sites are nearly impossible to find and slow down for off a highway, and you have no idea what the road situation could be like," cautioned a visitor about Fox Lair Campsites, suggesting high-clearance vehicles for certain areas.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming areas: Little Sandpoint Campground on Piseco Lake provides designated beach areas. "Nice spot! The view from the campsites along the lake was beautiful," mentioned a visitor, adding that they found the campground easy to navigate with children because of "clean showers, flushing toilets, easy to find, and spaced out sites."
Miniature golf nearby: Family entertainment options exist just outside some campgrounds. "Such a great tranquil place with great sites, and so much to do. Kids have floated in the channel all day. Lots of bike riding and walking. Couple nice general stores that are reasonably priced AND a miniature golf place right outside of the entrance," noted a Northampton Beach visitor.
Kid-friendly campsites: Some locations specifically cater to families. "The beach is wonderful for kids but many sites have fantastic water access. The campground and its facilities are in good shape, bath houses are new and have the dishwashing station," explained a Lewey Lake visitor, highlighting facilities that simplify family camping logistics.
Tips from RVers
Site selection important: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. At Moffitt Beach Campground, a visitor warned, "We checked out the other loops and found an abundance of really nice sites! Sites have a fire pit as well as a picnic table." This camper specifically mentioned avoiding site 9 which has "a big tank thing up there, quite close to the site."
Water quality considerations: Mineral content can affect RV systems. A Sacandaga Campground visitor cautioned, "Water was pretty mineral laden and I would get chunks of scale in my water bottles filling up. Make sure to use a filter if filling a campers water system."
Limited cell service: Communication can be inconsistent. "I use T-Mobile and there is no cell phone or wifi service," reported a Lewey Lake camper, while others note Verizon typically provides better but still spotty coverage throughout the region.
