Raquette Lake camping opportunities range from state-operated campgrounds to private facilities throughout the Adirondack region. Most campgrounds are situated at elevations between 1,600-2,000 feet, with the surrounding mountains reaching over 3,000 feet. Winter weather often extends through April, while summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cool nights even in July.
What to do
Swimming and wading: Singing Waters RV Park features a creek with small rapids perfect for recreation. "The boys were having so much fun swimming and riding their inner tubes down the creek with little rapids. They spent almost every waking moment in the water...rain or shine," shares Karen P.
Paddling on secluded lakes: Cranberry Lake Campground provides direct lake access for kayaking and canoeing. "The campground reminded us of summer camp on the lake, as it seemed frozen in time. We spent one day kayaking on the lake and another day hiking," according to Shari G.
Hiking accessible trails: Multiple trails lead from Little Sandpoint Campground into the surrounding wilderness. "Hike to Echo Cliffs right from the campground," notes Kyle M., while another camper mentions the "short but steep trail to Echo Cliffs within walking distance was my favorite part because it was so close and you could see Piseco Lake below."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites at Lewey Lake Campground offer direct shoreline camping. "The lakefront sites are fantastic!" writes Rebecca D., while Laura S. notes "many sites have fantastic water access."
Affordability: Spruce Creek Campground maintains lower rates than many regional facilities. One camper reports, "We got a water and electric site, ice, and a huge bundle of firewood for 38 bucks total."
Winter opportunities: Old Forge Camping Resort maintains winter operations for cold-weather activities. "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," according to Carrie H.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent several campgrounds in the region. "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," advises Becky M.
Variable cellular coverage: Most campgrounds have limited or nonexistent cell service. James O. reports, "I use T-Mobile and there is no cell phone or wifi service."
Elevation and temperature variations: Higher elevation sites experience significant temperature drops after sunset, even in summer. Plan for overnight temperatures that can dip into the 40s in spring and fall.
Seasonal limitations: Most public campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October only. Lake George Schroon Valley Resort specifies a "May 10 to October 15" season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers kid-friendly amenities. "The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!! We enjoyed the water view and the staff was so nice to us!" writes Gayle S.
Beach facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. "The beach is wonderful for kids but many sites have fantastic water access," notes Laura S.
Quiet hours enforcement: Campground noise policies vary significantly. At Lake George Schroon Valley Resort, one camper mentions "loosely enforced quiet hours" while another notes issues with "noisy seasonal campers who insist on blasting their music to the whole campground."
Pet protocols: Most campgrounds welcome dogs with standard leash rules. One guest at Spruce Creek Campground mentions, "We have 2 young boys...The area that we stayed did not have my trees, but there is another area that was full that is wooded. We will likely stay here again as it is close to our home. Also, pets are allowed."
Tips from RVers
Road and site conditions: Narrow access roads present challenges at several campgrounds. One reviewer cautions, "This is NOT a place for big rigs. 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."
Power reliability: Electric service quality varies between facilities. At Spruce Creek Campground, a camper notes, "We used a surge protector when plugging in to electric. It wasn't long before our power kept kicking off. We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites."
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "The lots are also not gravel and not level. Ours was dirt and mostly mud and even with our leveling jacks down, we could not level due to the mud and lack of a gravel base."
Site selection: RV campers report varying experiences based on site location. At Thornbush Acres RV Park, Paul G. notes, "Mostly seasonal nice and quiet. Basic sites with amenities. Very roomy and spacious."
