Cranberry Lake Campground

Are you a New York resident yearning for a true Adirondack wilderness experience, a chance to immerse yourself in nature, or simply a well-maintained and peaceful spot for your next camping trip? Cranberry Lake Campground, located in the heart of the Adirondack Park in Cranberry Lake, NY, offers all of this and more. As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground, it provides a fantastic opportunity to explore one of the largest remote lakes in the Adirondacks, surrounded by vast stretches of wilderness.

Cranberry Lake Campground is known for being a "great campground" and "very well kept," with "well-maintained sites." It offers a classic camping experience where the focus is on natural beauty and outdoor activities. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, with the opportunity to step out onto a large dock extending over the water for fishing or simply enjoying the breathtaking views. This campground is ideal for those seeking tranquility and a genuine connection with the outdoors, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While some visitors have noted inconsistencies with staffing presence or demeanor, the overall sentiment points to a beautiful and functional campground perfectly positioned for an unforgettable Adirondack adventure.

Cranberry Lake Campground is ideally situated at 230 Lone Pine Rd, Cranberry Lake, NY 12927, USA. This prime location places it within the northwestern region of the sprawling Adirondack Park, making it a gateway to vast natural beauty and countless recreational opportunities. The campground is located just off NY Route 3, east of the small, charming village of Cranberry Lake.

Its position offers both a sense of remoteness and practical accessibility. Cranberry Lake itself is one of the largest remote lakes in the Adirondacks, providing ample space for boating, fishing, and paddling without feeling overcrowded. The surrounding area boasts over 80 miles of hiking trails, including access to the remote Five Ponds Wilderness and the Cranberry Lake Wild Forest. For those seeking a challenge, the famous Cranberry Lake 50, a 50-mile loop trail, is nearby. While the primary draw is the natural environment, the small village of Cranberry Lake provides basic necessities. The campground’s setting allows for easy exploration of hiking trails directly from its boundaries, such as the popular Bear Mountain Trail. This blend of wild beauty and manageable access makes it perfect for both seasoned Adirondack explorers and those looking to dip their toes into wilderness camping.

Cranberry Lake Campground, as a New York State DEC facility, offers a range of essential services and amenities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and convenient. They prioritize providing a well-maintained and functional environment for all campers.

• Campsites: The campground boasts 171 campsites, with options including both tent and trailer sites. Many sites have trees providing privacy, and each comes with a fireplace and picnic table.

• Water Access: Water spigots are conveniently located near campsites. For those with watercraft, there is a boat launch available near the Cranberry Lake hamlet.

• Restroom Facilities: Hot showers and flush toilets are provided, ensuring a more comfortable experience compared to primitive camping.

• Trailer Dump Station: A trailer dump station is available for RV and trailer campers, allowing for proper waste disposal.

• Recycling Center: The campground promotes environmental responsibility with an on-site recycling center.

• Firewood and Ice Sales: For convenience, firewood and ice are available for purchase directly at the campground, so you don't have to venture out for these essentials.

• Pay Telephone: A pay telephone is available for communication, especially useful given that cell service can be spotty in remote Adirondack areas.

• Pavilion Rental: A pavilion is available for rent, ideal for group gatherings or events.

• First Aid Station: For minor emergencies, a first aid station is located on-site.

• Accessible Features: The campground offers accessible campsites, a picnic area, a beach access route, and accessible shower buildings for mobility-impaired visitors.

Cranberry Lake Campground truly shines with its natural features and recreational highlights, which draw visitors year after year. The focus here is on providing direct access to the beauty and activities of the Adirondacks.

• Large Dock with Views and Fishing: A significant highlight, as noted by visitors, is the "nice paved side walk with railings on each side that goes down to a large dock out over the water." This dock provides easy access for enjoying the views or fantastic fishing opportunities, complete with a wooden bench.

• Sandy Swimming Beach with Bathhouse: A designated sandy beach area with a bathhouse allows for refreshing swims, though it's important to note that swimming facilities are typically unsupervised by lifeguards in DEC campgrounds.

• Exceptional Fishing: Cranberry Lake is renowned for its fishing. The lake is stocked with brook trout annually, and anglers can also find largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike (some reportedly over 4 feet!), yellow perch, and brown bullhead. The fishing pier makes it accessible for all.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: The campground serves as a superb base for hiking, with two foot trails leading directly from the grounds, including the Bear Mountain Trail. Beyond the campground, hundreds of miles of trails exist in the Cranberry Lake Wild Forest and Five Ponds Wilderness Area, catering to all skill levels.

• Boating and Paddling Opportunities: With a boat launch nearby, Cranberry Lake is perfect for powerboats, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. The Oswegatchie River also offers excellent paddling trips.

• Amphitheater: An on-site amphitheater suggests possibilities for interpretive programs or evening gatherings, enriching the camping experience.

• Stargazing: Given its remote Adirondack location, Cranberry Lake offers exceptionally dark skies, making it an incredible spot for stargazing on clear nights.

• Fall Foliage: The area is particularly spectacular during autumn, as the "leaf change was perfect," making it a highly desirable destination for fall camping.

As a New York State DEC campground, specific "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense (like discounts or bundles) are not typically advertised in the same way as private businesses. Pricing is generally standardized by the state. However, the inherent value of camping at a DEC facility lies in its affordable access to prime state-managed natural areas. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any specific seasonal considerations, it is best to consult the official New York State DEC website for Cranberry Lake Campground or contact them directly.

Remember that camping permits usually have a maximum length of stay (e.g., 14 cumulative nights between July 1 and Labor Day), and generator use may be limited to specific hours. These are standard regulations for state campgrounds aimed at preserving the peaceful environment for all visitors.

Planning your visit to Cranberry Lake Campground is straightforward. For reservations, inquiries about site availability, or any specific questions regarding the campground's rules and amenities, you can reach out using the contact details below:

• Phone: (315) 848-2315

• Mobile Phone: +1 315-848-2315

• Address: 230 Lone Pine Rd, Cranberry Lake, NY 12927, USA

It's always advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular Adirondack destinations like Cranberry Lake, to ensure you secure your desired campsite. You can typically reserve sites online through the New York State Parks reservation system or by calling the campground directly.

For New York residents, Cranberry Lake Campground offers an authentic and accessible Adirondack experience that is truly unmatched. Its designation as a well-kept DEC campground means you are assured of a maintained environment with essential facilities like hot showers and flush toilets, making wilderness camping more comfortable. The "very well kept" sites and the paved walkway to the large fishing dock highlight a commitment to guest enjoyment and accessibility, ensuring that anyone can "easily go out on the dock and enjoy the views or fishing!"

This campground is perfect for locals seeking genuine immersion in nature, whether it's through the fantastic fishing opportunities on Cranberry Lake (where northern pike and various trout abound), or exploring the "well over 80 miles of hiking trails" nearby, including the challenging Cranberry Lake 50. For families, the combination of a sandy beach for swimming, ample space, and the sheer beauty of the Adirondacks provides an ideal setting for creating lasting memories. While some operational aspects like staff presence might be less formal than private campgrounds, the core offering—access to one of New York's most beautiful and remote wilderness areas—makes it an invaluable resource for New Yorkers. It’s a chance to truly unplug, breathe the fresh Adirondack air, and appreciate the unparalleled natural heritage of our state, right in our own backyard.

Cranberry Lake Campground

230 Lone Pine Rd, Cranberry Lake, NY 12927, USA