Campgrounds around Raquette Lake in the Adirondacks sit at an average elevation of 1,800 feet, creating cooler nights even during summer months. The area receives approximately 45 inches of precipitation annually, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during July and August. Local camping regulations often require bear-resistant food storage containers at most sites, with many campgrounds providing secure options.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Brown Tract Pond Campground offers a peaceful paddling experience with rental options right at your site. "This campground is peaceful and lovely. There are no motorboats allowed on the lake, so the water is perfect for paddling," notes Angela, who appreciated the small beach for non-waterfront campers.
Swimming in pristine waters: Lake Durant Campground features a lake known for exceptional water clarity. "The shower facilities were brand new and always clean as were the bathrooms throughout the entire campground. The garbage and recycling facility is quite serious and is better than my town offers," explains Michael G., who spent a week at the campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We had a site on the lake that allowed us to park our rental kayaks right at our site (24 hour rental allowed for early morning cruises). The lake is a great size to explore with children," shares Thomas M. about Lake Durant.
Hiking trails: For hiking enthusiasts, several trails begin within campground boundaries. "Stephen's Pond trail located in the campground and plenty of other trails in the area," notes Erica M., who found Lake Durant's proximity to Blue Mountain particularly convenient.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Limekiln Lake Campground receives praise for its spacious waterfront sites. "With a group of 5 stayed in this campground 2 nights for 4th of july weekend... i wanted a spot next to the water so i could land our kayaks and canoes at the campsite. thanks to this link below i found number 5, secluded and quiet," explains Murat H.
Quiet no-motor lakes: Campers appreciate lakes that restrict motorboats. "This was 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. No cell service," reports Dinah V. from Golden Beach Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean facilities. "The bathrooms and grounds are well maintained and accessible from wherever you are in the park. There are hiking, biking and running trails galore," comments Carlyne F. about Old Forge Camping Resort.
Winter access: Some campgrounds remain accessible during winter. "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," shares Carrie H. about Old Forge's winter options.
What you should know
Bear management practices: Wildlife management requires careful food storage. "We ended up with a fleet of mice making merry with some of our food (and snacks) which we ended up having to throw out," warns Katherine P. about Lewey Lake Campground.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "No cell service or WiFi. No hookups," notes Lawrence L. about Brown Tract Pond Campground.
Seasonal insect considerations: Black flies can be problematic in early summer. "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Make sure you're prepared for dispersement camping as this location does not provide amenities other than Mother Nature itself," advises Carlyne F. about Moose River Plains.
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites require advance planning. "I've been camping here since I was 6 or 7 years old. (I am now 67) Being born and raised in Utica this was the go to camp ground for us. It's quiet and beautiful," shares Fred A. about Eighth Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Families often prefer campgrounds with sandy beaches. "The lake is beautiful. There are 2 trail heads located in the campground that offer more trails as you go. Neither was very difficult and the end result was worth the hike," explains Michael G. from Lake Durant.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs. "There was a really fun ranger activity they earned badges from. We all left very happy campers but sad to leave the mountains," shares Sandy T. about Lake Eaton Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Consider campgrounds near family-friendly destinations. "This is one of the most family friendly resorts and a perfect weekend getaway for those living in other parts of New York State. There is a bus from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking," explains Carlyne F. about Old Forge Camping Resort.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from main roads for quieter family experiences. "The sites 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," advises Lee W. about Golden Beach Campground.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "Cool, free camping in the Adirondacks. The road to get here is ok, definitely manageable in a smaller RV, you'd just have to take it slow. We did fine in our 26ft class c," shares Laura M. about Moose River Plains.
Utility availability: Many Adirondack campgrounds have limited hookups. "Each site has a picnic table, fire pit, and your very own, surprisingly clean, outhouse. We only stayed here one night, in site 121A, but I'd recommend staying longer than that, if only because the road to the camp sites is so long," Laura continues.
Site sizing: Confirm site dimensions before booking. "My friend is a local and recommended this campground for the sunsets. The rain made that difficult to confirm, but we loved the place. It's the standard weird-ass New York thing where you have a site and you can park wherever the hell you want within it," notes Grant M. about Golden Beach.
Generator restrictions: Check generator policies at your campsite near Raquette Lake. "The main road through is a little rough, take it slow and you should get through with any vehicle, but I would recommend only high clearance 8" plus vehicles. Every site has a pit house and fire ring," advises Miccal M. about Moose River Plains.
