Saranac Lake Islands Adirondack Preserve

Primitive camping with water access only. Most sites are on islands. Very private, spacious sites. One of our all-time favorite places to camp. Super popular, so plan ahead and reserve early.

This lake is so peaceful and the remote islands that are only accessible by boat make this spot really special. It's a gorgeous place to get away from everything and to really connect to nature. The sites are spacious and gorgeous. Feels pretty private.

Boat access only, primitive camping, book campsites early. I’ve been coming here every year for 15 years and look forward to the next trip the minute I leave. Weather comes in quick, be prepared for anything. 40 degree nights happen in the middle of the summer so do 85 degree days. It’s a role of the dice and also what makes it so much fun.

The experience of camping on one of these islands is something special that will remain with you for years. My partner and I went here on a whim in the summer of 2015, somehow with only a few weeks in advance we got Site 13 which is a large secluded island. We haven’t been able to book it since because the reservations have to be made so long in advance and book up quickly. One day I hope we will be able to return! 

All campsites are boat access only and it is very easy to rent a canoe or kayak. I remember the person at check in referring us to an outfitter that dropped off a canoe, paddles, and life jackets to the boat launch area of the campground. It was my first time in a canoe and there are motorized boats on the lake so it can get a little rocky. A wonderful, peaceful place like no other.

Loved this campground. Pretty much had an entire island to ourselves and got to enjoy the beautiful saranac lake. We will be back!

Only a few sites have cover available in the form of lean-tos.

we rented a motorboat to get to our own private little peninsula (not one of the very sought after islands but just as neat) on the middle saranac. one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had in my life- surrounded by nature- water, woods, birds and fishing for pike, bass and sunfish!

Canoed into our campsite, #15. It took 3 trips to bring in all our gear. Beautiful site. Quite a climb up to the actual site. Great swimming from site. Found a great rock to jump from. Lots of loons, toads and fish. Next time we would downsize our gear our use a motorized boat. Outhouse was a little rough around the edges, but doable. Town is close by for ice and things. Our island had 4 other campsites on it and we barely saw or heard our neighbors.

Huge sites, a lot of privacy (nearest campsite in most cases is not even visible). We kayaked before, and found the biggest drawback was impossible to bring a lot of food and a cooler. Bought a small aluminum boat with a motor and now can bring a lot more gear. A great place to relax, enjoy nature, and unwind. Photo is view from site 54.

I find this gem of a campground a few years back. Now, I come back twice a year. There's nothing better than secluded island campsites for my camping and fishing addiction. All campsites have picnic tables, firepits/grills, and privies. Saranac Lake Marina has great rental boats. I even think the dogs look forward to these camping trips.

Love this place. Have gone the last three years, and I have reserved again for August 2018. You'll need a boat or canoe (rentals available in Saranac Lake). Sites have tables, fire rings, and outhouses. You'll need a tent, bag, pad, cooking equipment, etc. Bring warm clothing for nights; temps can drop 30 degrees in hours. Sites are carry in/carry out.

One of the best camping trips I have ever experienced. The island we stayed on only had two other sites. There were 6 of us and a dog. We couldn't hear anyone else. We rented 3 canoes to get to the island, which was a little pricey so if you have your own, it's worth the haul. Beautiful water in the morning and nice clean sites. Only disadvantage is its a bit difficult if you want to hike a ton.

Love this place! There's something novelty about getting in a boat and paddling to your island for the week! We went off season so camping was free! Brought our dog and he had a blast exploring the island at his own whim. We jumped from the rocks and swam and played games. There are primitive pit toilets- I find leaving the door open to stare at the scenery is best to keep horrible smell from killing you and for aesthetic purposes. Will be returning for years and years!

I camped at Saranac Lake Islands for two summers in a row. The first time, my children and I had an island and the second time we had a spot on a little peninsula. It's such a gorgeous place! The campsites were well maintained and nicely isolated. At night, you could see other campfires in the distance over the lake. I highly recommend Saranac Lake!

I have to say that when it comes to mountain lake island camping, NY is tops! Nothing quite like being able to kayak with your pack out to your own island and overnight there! Lake Saranac is beautiful, and you have to hit the Saranac Brewery!