Camping options near Wanakena, New York include a mix of state-operated campgrounds and private facilities within the Adirondack Park. The village sits at approximately 1,693 feet elevation and experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-80°F and cold winters with heavy snowfall. Water levels in area campgrounds tend to fluctuate seasonally, affecting access to swimming and boating areas.
What to do
Hiking at Cranberry Lake: The trail system offers varied terrain for all skill levels. At Cranberry Lake Campground, visitors can access trailheads directly from camp. "The main trailheads were a 2-minute walk from camp, and everything was very well maintained," notes one visitor who appreciated the proximity to outdoor activities.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes provide excellent fishing conditions throughout the camping season. "We spent all day on Saturday on the water soaking up the sun. We did go during the 4th of July weekend so it was pretty busy," shares a camper who brought kayaking equipment and spoke with others who "caught some lake trout."
Winter recreation: For off-season visitors, Old Forge Camping Resort maintains winter accessibility. "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," explains a winter visitor.
What campers like
Lake access: Many sites offer direct water entry points for personal watercraft. At Lewey Lake Campground, "there are several sites right on the lake and you can pull your canoe or kayak right up to your site. There is a beach area for swimming. They rent kayaks and canoes."
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention comfortable camping areas at state parks. "The sites are large not all sites have the same electric, there 2-50 amp, some 30 amps and some 15 Amp," reports a visitor to Whetstone Gulf State Park, noting the variety of electrical service options.
Family amenities: The region's campgrounds typically include recreational facilities beyond natural features. Old Forge Camping Resort provides "a volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards. There is a bus from the campground that takes you to enchanted forest safari, which is a great way to avoid parking."
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions throughout the Adirondack region. "This is a bear area (we didn't see any) but I have to emphasize that you HAVE to keep all your food covered in a sealed container," advises a camper at Lewey Lake who learned this lesson the hard way, reporting that "we ended up with a fleet of mice making merry with some of our food."
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies dramatically across the region's camping areas. At Whetstone Gulf State Park Campground, there's limited connectivity, while at Lewey Lake "there is no cell phone or wifi service" for T-Mobile users.
Site conditions: Ground conditions can affect camping comfort, especially after rain. "The sites are pretty level" at several campgrounds, but others report variable conditions, with one camper noting, "Our site was on the uphill slope so we had some road noise due to that."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Many area campgrounds feature designated swimming locations. Whetstone has "a dammed steam" for swimming that one family found "brisk" but noted "did not slow the kids down," making it ideal for warm summer days.
Kid-friendly hiking: Select trails appropriate for younger campers. At Fort Drum Recreation Area, "the hike up and around Bear Mountain was a good workout and fun experience for our whole family (littlest is 6)," demonstrating accessible trail options.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings add educational value to family camping trips. "The deer are incredibly friendly and will walk right up to you," reports a day visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort, providing a potential wildlife encounter for children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for variable site conditions. A visitor to Thornbush Acres RV Park found the sites "roomy and spacious" but noted they were "basic sites with amenities" and recommended bringing leveling equipment.
Reservation timing: The most desirable rv campgrounds near Wanakena, New York fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Camped on one of the waterfront tent sites. Super nice but close to highway so you could hear the cars drive by and see the hwy from the site," explains a Lewey Lake camper who recommends booking early for better positioning.
Campground layout: Knowing the layout helps with site selection at rv campgrounds around Wanakena, New York. "The campground is broken up into a few sections with a main road cutting through it. Pick your section wisely!" advises a Lewey Lake visitor, emphasizing the importance of researching site maps before arrival.
