Cabins near Old Forge, New York range from single-room structures to multi-bedroom lodge-style accommodations located throughout the western Adirondack region. The area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation with seasonal temperature variations that can drop below freezing even in summer months. Winter cabin options typically require advance reservations from November through March when snowfall averages over 200 inches annually.
What to do
Creek adventures: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA offers tubing opportunities right on the property. "There is a beautiful river where some of the sites are located next to, where you can wade into, kayak, tube down, or just sit on the bank and watch the local wild life swim by," mentions one camper who appreciated the natural water features.
Mineral hunting: Collect your own quartz crystals at the Herkimer Diamond Mine across from the KOA campground. "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space. The whole park is well maintained," reports a visitor who spent three nights exploring the area.
Lakeside fishing: Spend time angling at Moffitt Beach Campground, which provides access to Sacandaga Lake. One visitor notes, "Nice fishing and spacious sites. Family campground," highlighting the fishing opportunities available directly from the campsite.
Forest hiking: Access nearby forest trails directly from cabin areas. "The site is well maintained, the bathrooms are clean, and we had plenty of privacy from our neighbors... The main trailheads were a 2-minute walk from camp, and everything was very well maintained," reports a visitor to Cranberry Lake.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Cabin sites at DevilDoc Campsites offer secluded options with pond access. "We loved staying up by the pond and exploring all the old relics around the area. Our spot was peaceful and quite. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of bull frogs," shares one camper who appreciated the natural setting.
Winter accessibility: Seasonal snow activities provide additional cabin appeal. A winter visitor at Old Forge Camping Resort shares, "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 and seasonal rentals are available."
Lake views: Waterfront cabin locations provide direct water access. At Golden Beach Campground, "The campsites inside the park are very crowded so make sure you get one on the road. They are roomier and spaced apart. Each campsite has it's own outhouse and you are close to the water so you can fish or park your boat by your campsite."
Free resources: Some cabin locations provide complimentary amenities. At DevilDoc Campsites, "Property has an abundance of free firewood you can collect," while one guest at Golden Beach noted "There was a huge stack of free wood piled near the shower house!"
What you should know
Varying electricity setups: Cabin electrical systems may have limitations, especially at smaller operations. One visitor to HTR Adirondacks reported, "We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have and we should not have our hot water on electric."
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," notes a visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort.
Variable site privacy: Cabin locations differ significantly in proximity to neighbors. "The sites are rather tight and on top of each other but that just makes for closer neighbor's," mentions a camper at Old Forge, while another noted at Moffitt Beach, "Campsites are unremarkable but not in bad way. Very generic DEC campground, facilities are clean and well maintained."
Early reservations essential: Popular sites fill quickly, particularly for seasonal holidays. "Book early cause they fill up fast. You still have access to the main park and showers," advises a visitor to Golden Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity programming: West Canada Creek Campground offers structured events for children. "We have been returning to this campground for 5 years. Our weekend of choice is always sold out. The staff have a wonderful event set up and the river drop/Run is fantastic," reports a repeat visitor.
Swimming options: Pool facilities provide alternatives to lake swimming. "They have a playground with slides and swings as well as a swimming pool. There is a beach volleyball court, half court basketball and horseshoe pits," notes a West Canada Creek visitor.
Kid-friendly cabin selection: Choose cabins with loft areas for children. DevilDoc Campsites offers "a small cabin with loft on the property," which appeals to families wanting separate sleeping areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some properties feature regular animal sightings. "With the connection of the stay and play with enchanted forrest water safari it makes for a great time. The ability to see bears through the camp ground and a great lake for kayaking there is something for everyone," mentions a visitor to Old Forge.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Cabin locations may present challenges for larger vehicles. At HTR Adirondacks, "The roads and lot signs are scarce and other than handing us a very inaccurate map of the property, we were on our own. We damaged our rig getting to our lot. The roads and turns are not wide enough for a 45' rig even with the tow disconnected to make turns."
Reservation timing: Off-season visits provide more flexibility. "We did our usual reservation-less 'pull up and see what they have open' style of camping, but during the main season, this place is busy! You'll definitely need to plan ahead and make reservations if you plan to be here during the crazy season," advises a visitor to Cranberry Lake.
Water access: Cabins without running water require extra planning. "Basic cabins typically have limited cooking facilities, so portable cooking equipment may be necessary," notes one camper from Kayuta Lake who explained "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."
