Tent camping near Otter Lake, New York provides access to the southwestern edge of the Adirondack Park, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet across the region. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, while summer brings moderate 70-85°F days with cool evenings. Primitive sites throughout the area follow standard Adirondack camping regulations requiring sites to be at least 150 feet from water sources unless designated by a yellow "camp here" disk.
What to do
Water activities at Tioga Point: This boat-in only campground on Raquette Lake offers crystal-clear swimming areas. "The campsites are private and you can enjoy the beach with crystal clear water. Fishing is great," reports Lee W., noting that their "husband's family has been going there since the 60s."
Kayaking on Seventh Lake: Launch directly from waterfront primitive sites for paddling adventures. Access includes both road and water entry points. "We accessed the sites by water on a canoe trip. There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out," notes Mary B., who found these sites while en route to another campground.
Bridge jumping opportunities: Hall Island State Forest sites provide easy access to the Redfield bridge, popular for swimming. "The draw for my friends and I at the time was a jump off the nearby Redfield bridge and swim in the Salmon River. Was also popular for fishing enthusiasts," mentions Rachel P.
What campers like
Remote lakefront seclusion: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers peaceful sites directly on the water. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake," shares Ashlee C., who adds that there was "enough room for a tent. Fire pit at the site and a bathroom across the way from the first site."
Sandy shorelines: Many campers mention the natural beaches found throughout the region. At Seventh Lake, Mary B. describes a specific feature: "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited."
Rustic lean-tos: Several campgrounds feature Adirondack-style lean-to shelters. "You can only reach this campground by boat. The campground is very secluded and there are lean-to style campsites. You don't have to bring a tent unless you want to," explains Carrie J. about Tioga Point.
What you should know
Water access requirements: Several campgrounds require boats to reach the sites. "To get to the campground, you must paddle. The state park allows only car top boats. We kayaked all of our gear out to the island," describes Sarah B. about Alger Island, warning that "the lake was FILLED with boats" during holiday periods.
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack amenities. Cedar River Entrance Camping provides basic necessities: "Picnic table, fire ring and several outhouses nearby. Beautiful surroundings. There is a small landing to launch kayaks or canoes," according to Matthew D., who also notes the nearest town is "about 20-30 minutes away."
Weather preparation: The Adirondack region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. Thomas E. visited Hall Island State Forest "early in April it was cold snowing and raining. It didn't take away from the campsite at all though. There were fire ring set up a view of the water and for enable body person just a short walk up the path."
Tips for camping with families
Francis Lake access: Multiple entry points make this location suitable for families with varied outdoor interests. "This spot is totally gorgeous, perfectly clean, and quiet. Room for two or three tents, two fire circles and has an outhouse. Great for swimming, kayaking, and a gorgeous place to wake up next to the water," says Elizabeth B.
Scheduled programming options: For families seeking structured activities, Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates offers organized experiences. "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available, as well as day use access to the beach and high ropes course," explains Elizabeth B., noting it's "a great way to access a beautiful area in a way customized for your family."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for inevitable wildlife encounters. "Don't feed the ducks. They will never leave," warns Sarah B. from her Alger Island experience, while Lee W. suggests campers "watch out for the neighborly bears" at Tioga Point.
Tips from RVers
Boat transport limitations: RV campers face significant constraints in the region. "We have graduated to a travel trailer and have gotten a little old to be sleeping in tents. Needless to say that it is tough to get the travel trailer across the lake," Lee W. explains about Tioga Point Campground.
Site accessibility: Most primitive areas have limited vehicle access. Cedar River visitors should consider Matthew D.'s advice: "Would recommend traveling further in if you are looking for more sites," suggesting better locations beyond the initial camping area.
Road navigation challenges: Many forest roads require careful driving. North Lake Reservoir campers should note J B.'s practical tip: "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
