Best Campgrounds near Wanakena, NY

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park providing amenities for tent, RV, and cabin campers. The region includes both developed sites with full hookups and more primitive options throughout the state's national parks, forests, and state recreation areas. Many campgrounds are situated along lakes, rivers, or coastal areas, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many sites require advance reservations during the peak summer season, particularly those with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and dump stations. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should be prepared for mosquitoes, wildlife encounters, and potentially limited cell service. A visitor commented, "This is the best camping in Alaska. Just find a spot big enough for your rig or tent and pull off. There are many regularly used sites that have rock fire rings already made."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds offering direct access to lakes, rivers, or ocean views. Campgrounds near Seward provide convenient access to both the ocean and nearby glaciers, while interior options like those in Denali National Park offer mountain vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities. Several visitors mentioned the importance of bug protection during summer months. According to one review, "Tangle lakes campground has nice clean sites, lots of hiking, boat launch, bathrooms can be a bit of a walk from some sites. In mid August the little nats were horrible but that's camping in Alaska!" Developed campgrounds with amenities like flush toilets and running water are particularly appreciated, with one camper noting, "Okay so basically if there is running water and a soap dispenser the campground gets an automatic 3 stars."

Best Camping Sites Near Wanakena, New York (89)

    1. Cranberry Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 848-2315

    $20 / night

    "This is a Great Lake for kayaking, clear and calm, lots of nooks and crannies to explore."

    "Beautiful ADK campground with the whole lake to explore from the launch on site. Pros: canoe rentals on site, lakeside camp sites, hiking nearby, all-tent loop."

    2. Birch’s Lakeside Campground and Marina

    6 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 848-4500

    $25 - $65 / night

    "Birch's Lakeside Campground has all the amenities needed to enjoy a stay in upstate New York, a general store, laundry & propane on site keep everything you need right there! "

    "This was the perfect spot located on Cranberry lake -They have everything you need at their lakeside store, including boat and kayak rentals!"

    3. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    2 Reviews
    Cranberry Lake, NY
    7 miles
    Website

    "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. "

    "amazing lake for kayaking and boating.

    sites not crowded together."

    4. Stillwater Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 785-2239

    "Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there"

    "It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite. The drive up campsite had an outhouse though so that was nice"

    5. Fish Creek Pond Campground

    33 Reviews
    Tupper Lake, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-4560

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Most of the campsites at Fish Creek Pond are along the waterfront, offering easy access to the pond. Some campers even build temporary docks that they leave behind for subsequent campers."

    "Bike path, kayak rentals, close to Lake Placid Olympic center, Wild Center in Tupper Lake"

    6. Lake Eaton Campground

    14 Reviews
    Long Lake, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 624-2641

    $20 / night

    "This time we camped along the back edge, near RT 30. There had been some bear sightings recently so i was excited. Shady spot uphill from the car. no road noise really given the proximity."

    "This campground is right on a lake where the sunrises are spectacular! Canoe and kayak rentals are available. The water is great for swimming & the beach is nice too."

    7. Rollins Pond Campground

    20 Reviews
    Tupper Lake, NY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-3239

    $20 / night

    "As it isn't too far of a drive for us, it quickly became our go-to campgrounds for quite a while due to the mostly flat campground and who doesn't love hearing the slow trickle of water splashing close"

    "It was generally quiet Memorial Day weekend, and we were able to snag a lakeside site with plenty of trees and space for our tent, SUV, and more."

    8. Old Forge Camping Resort

    18 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 369-6011

    "Great getaway in upstate New York"

    "This is one of the most family friendly resorts and a perfect weekend getaway for those living in other parts of New York State."

    9. Golden Beach Campground

    13 Reviews
    Raquette Lake, NY
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 354-4230

    $20 / night

    "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 (so foreign to me), but you should spend some time with the map."

    "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. Book early cause they fill up fast."

    10. Green Pond - Bonaparte State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Harrisville, NY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 376-3521

    "This is our go to area close to town but still just want to get away from it all. DEC is nice and stop and talk to the campers. There is a doc down the road for boats and fishing!"

    "This is my second time camping at this location and I’ve enjoyed it so much. Not very well know and really quite however the training range can be a little loud at times."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Wanakena, NY

390 Reviews of 89 Wanakena Campgrounds



Guide to Wanakena

Camping near Wanakena, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to paddle on serene lakes or hike through lush forests, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campers love the water access at places like Fish Creek Pond Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "We enjoy kayaking, and there is plenty of access for that here." The calm waters make it perfect for families and pets alike.
  • Hiking: The area is surrounded by trails. A visitor at Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve noted, "There is a wonderful swimming area and motorized boats are not allowed on Nicks Lake so it is very peaceful." This makes it a great spot to explore nature.
  • Fishing: Campers at Cranberry Lake - DEC rave about the fishing opportunities. One camper said, "Beautiful state campground in the heart of the Adirondacks. Well maintained, peaceful with wonderful fishing."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the stunning views at Golden Beach Campground. A reviewer shared, "The lake at the campground was fantastic and gave our pups a chance to swim."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Lake Eaton Campground, one visitor said, "Amazing campground, very clean & spacious campsites. Clean bathrooms & hot showers."
  • Wildlife: Campers enjoy the wildlife sightings. A family at Rollins Pond Adirondack Preserve noted, "We always have wildlife at our site. This past trip we had chipmunks, squirrels, ducks, and a crane."

What you should know

  • Bug Spray is Essential: Many campers warn about bugs, especially in late spring. One camper at Old Forge Camping Resort mentioned, "Pretty buggy during the last week of May."
  • Site Selection Matters: Choosing the right site can make a big difference. A visitor at Golden Beach Campground advised, "Careful with your site selection. The further back from the lake, the more of a camping-in-the-deep-woods vibe."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A camper at Fish Creek Pond Campground said, "Summer months are very crowded there, reservations always encouraged."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve, which has a great swimming area and is peaceful. A reviewer noted, "It has a great little swimming area and close access to a lot of activities for the kids."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along kayaks or canoes for fun on the water. A family at Cranberry Lake - DEC shared, "Camping right on the lake and listening to the waves as you fall asleep."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A camper at Lake Eaton Campground mentioned, "The campground is beautiful, the town is lovely, the scenery is tranquil and relaxing."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Old Forge Camping Resort said, "This is a VERY tight campground so 4 of us had to circle back around the entire campground."
  • Look for Amenities: Some campgrounds offer better facilities than others. A reviewer at Nicks Lake Adirondack Preserve noted, "Good cell reception & tons to do nearby."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds in the area don’t have full hookups. A camper at Fish Creek Pond Campground mentioned, "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."

Camping near Wanakena, New York, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Wanakena, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Wanakena, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Wanakena, NY and 18 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Wanakena, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wanakena, NY is Cranberry Lake Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wanakena, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 free dispersed camping spots near Wanakena, NY.