The Oswegatchie region encompasses part of the western Adirondacks with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,500 feet. The area features a network of interconnected waterways and dense northern hardwood forests with numerous beaver meadows. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer days typically reach the 70s and 80s with cooler nights that make camping near Oswegatchie, New York appealing from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Paddling extensive waterways: At Stillwater Reservoir, visitors can explore miles of pristine water. "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible... In addition to many cool places to kayak from the island, there are a few hiking trails where you can land your boat and hike for a few hours," notes one camper.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Many sites offer excellent bird watching, especially for loons. At Rollins Pond Campground, visitors report, "WE love staying at Rollins Pond in a tent! Our family always meet friendly people and falling asleep to loons is priceless! We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane. The time before, we had a family of loons!"
Winter recreation access: Unlike many Adirondack camping areas that close completely in winter, some Oswegatchie region campgrounds offer winter 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 and seasonal rentals are available," reports a visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront sites with sunrise/sunset views: Most campers cite waterfront access as a primary draw. At Higley Flow State Park Campground, one visitor noted, "We usually head for the Adirondack lakes further down the road but it's still in the foot hills, close to our home and very pretty especially at sunset... I came across the largest and most beautiful sounding loon early in the morning...perfect before we had to pack it up and leave."
Clean bathroom facilities: Many Oswegatchie area campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. At Cranberry Lake Campground, campers report, "Camped for three nights. LOVED this place. The bathrooms are clean and there is plenty of hot water!" Another camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are kept tidy, the shower house is classic and clean."
Dark night skies for stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional star viewing. One camper at Birch's Lakeside Campground and Marina shared, "Star gazing is FANTASTIC!" Another noted, "This was the perfect spot located on Cranberry lake... we had the best view of the stars at night (we were there during a meteor shower)."
What you should know
Limited cell service availability: Most campgrounds in the area have minimal to no connectivity. Pack paper maps and download any needed information before arrival.
Varying road conditions: Access roads range from paved highways to rough dirt tracks. For Green Pond - Bonaparte State Forest, visitors should note potential noise disturbances: "Not very well know and really quite however the training range can be a little loud at times."
Wildlife precautions needed: Bears are active in the region. One camper warned, "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."
Water level fluctuations: Some campers note changing water levels in reservoirs. "Since this river has many dams and is used for hydro power the water level can go up and down 2-3 feet from one day to the next. It didnt affect our kayaking fun, swimming or fishing and was intriguing."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with beach areas: Soft Maple Campground offers family-friendly swimming. "Soft Maple is a truly gorgeous small campground. Only about a dozen sites or so, first come first serve. Level sites for RVs or tent or hammock camping. Each site has a nice space with fire ring and picnic table. The beach is lovely and clean."
Consider accessibility needs: Several campgrounds offer accessible facilities. "The entire campground is accessible, with gravel pack paths, and level sites."
Choose sites with playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. One Higley Flow visitor mentioned, "Really nice sites that are private and easy to back into. Great playground for the kids, hiking trails and more."
Look for campgrounds with kids' activities: Fish Creek Pond Campground offers structured activities. A visitor noted, "There is time for sailing canoeing motor boating including skiing. Fishing right off the banks of your site is a convenient way to fish as much as you like... Things to do for the kids like arts and crafts."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: Many older Adirondack campgrounds have uneven sites. One camper at Rollins Pond noted, "While I have really enjoyed Rollins Pond, I would caution going prior to June unless you are prepared for varying weather. I have been up there pitching the tent in a t-shirt one day only to need to throw on a jacket the next day due to rain and even snow."
Plan for limited hookup availability: Most Oswegatchie area campgrounds have few or no hookups. A Fish Creek Pond visitor advised, "No w/e/s hookups at any of the sites, but there is a three-lane dump station for your convenience if you are in an RV."
Research road access for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger RVs. At Cranberry Lake, a visitor mentioned, "We stayed in site #45, right on the edge of the lake, with great kayak access... 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."
Consider smaller campgrounds for more privacy: Smaller facilities may provide better experiences for RVers seeking solitude. One camper at Birch's Lakeside Campground shared, "This place has it all, especially being as remote as it is. (Laundry facilities, fishing, firewood, quaint general store for supplies and fuel)... The campers became our friends, they were all willing to help from the moment of our arrival."
