Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #82

For New Yorkers seeking a true wilderness escape, far removed from the urban sprawl and even the typical car-accessible campgrounds, the Saranac Lake Islands Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity. Within this expansive and pristine area of the Adirondack Park lies Campsite #82, a distinctive island site that promises an intimate connection with nature. This article is designed specifically for residents of New York, providing a detailed and engaging overview of what to expect at this unique campground, focusing on Campsite #82, and why it's an ideal destination for your next Adirondack adventure.

The Saranac Lake Islands Campground is renowned for its primitive, boat-access-only campsites, scattered across the various islands of Lower and Middle Saranac Lake. These sites offer a level of solitude and natural immersion that is increasingly rare. Imagine paddling your canoe or small motorboat across serene waters, arriving at your own private island haven, surrounded by towering pines and the gentle lapping of waves. This is the essence of camping at Saranac Lake Islands, and Campsite #82 embodies this perfectly.

Unlike developed campgrounds, the focus here is on simplicity and environmental preservation. You won’t find modern hookups or bustling amenities, but instead, you'll discover the quiet grandeur of the Adirondacks. It’s an experience tailored for those who appreciate self-sufficiency, a crackling campfire under a star-filled sky, and the profound peace that only true wilderness can provide. From the moment you launch your boat until you reluctantly pack up to leave, Campsite #82 promises an authentic Adirondack camping adventure that will leave you refreshed and invigorated.

Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #82 is located within the broader Saranac Lake Islands Campground system. While the provided address is Santa Clara, NY 12986, it's vital for New Yorkers to understand that this is a general geographic marker for a town within the Adirondack Park, and not a direct roadside access point to Campsite #82. This particular campsite, like all island sites in the Saranac Lake Islands Campground, is strictly boat-access only.

To reach Campsite #82, you will need to launch a boat from one of the designated access points on Lower Saranac Lake. The most common and convenient access point is the State Bridge Boat Launch at Second Pond, located off State Route 3 in Saranac Lake. This launch provides direct access to the Lower Saranac Lake, from which you can navigate to your reserved island campsite. There are parking facilities at the boat launches, though during peak season, it’s advised to arrive early, and campers may even be directed to use municipal parking in the nearby Village of Saranac Lake if capacity is reached at the launches.

The journey to your island site is part of the adventure. Whether you choose to paddle a canoe or kayak, or use a small motorboat, the experience of traversing the scenic waters of the Saranac Lake chain adds to the sense of escape. It’s important to familiarize yourself with a map of the lake system before heading out and ensure your watercraft is suitable for carrying all your camping gear. This unique accessibility ensures that the island campsites, including #82, remain wonderfully secluded, offering a peaceful retreat away from vehicular traffic and typical campground noise.

The Saranac Lake Islands Campground operates on a primitive camping model, meaning the services provided at Campsite #82 are designed to support a rustic and environmentally focused experience. Campers should be prepared for a level of self-sufficiency. Here's what you can expect to find at Campsite #82:

• Designated Tent Pad/Area: A cleared space suitable for pitching your tent(s).
• Fire Ring/Fireplace: A sturdy, designated ring for building campfires for cooking and warmth. It's crucial to always use the provided fire ring and ensure fires are completely extinguished.
• Picnic Table: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Privy/Outhouse: A rustic, usually fiberglass "Johnny-on-the-Spot" style outhouse is provided at each island campsite for waste disposal. These are maintained but are not flushing toilets.
• Boat Docking/Landing Area: A natural or minimal designated area for mooring or pulling up your boat, vital for boat-in access.
• No Potable Water: It is explicitly stated that potable water is not available at these primitive island sites. Campers must bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter/purify lake water.
• No Electricity: There are no electrical hookups at these primitive sites.
• No Shower Facilities: Showers are not available directly at the campsite.
• Carry-In, Carry-Out Policy: Campers are responsible for packing out all trash and waste. Recycling centers are typically available at the main campground office or nearby DEC facilities, which you can utilize with your camping permit.
• Firewood Sales (at main office): While not at the campsite itself, firewood may be available for purchase at the main Saranac Lake Islands Campground office or nearby vendors.

It is essential to arrive fully prepared with all necessary supplies for your stay, understanding the primitive nature of these facilities.

Campsite #82 at Saranac Lake Islands Campground offers several standout features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for New York campers:

• Ultimate Seclusion and Privacy: Being an island campsite, #82 provides a unique level of privacy and peacefulness rarely found in drive-in campgrounds. You’ll truly feel removed from the world, fostering a profound sense of tranquility.
• Direct Water Access: Enjoy direct access to the clear waters of Lower Saranac Lake right from your campsite. This is perfect for swimming, launching a kayak or canoe, or simply enjoying the lake views.
• Prime Fishing Opportunities: The Saranac Lake chain is renowned for excellent fishing, with species like northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. You can cast a line directly from your island or explore the abundant fishing spots nearby.
• Paddler's Paradise: The vast network of interconnected lakes and waterways, including access through a lock system to other lakes, makes this an ideal destination for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts.
• Stunning Adirondack Scenery: Campsite #82 is surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Adirondack Park, offering picturesque lake views, dense forests, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Starry Night Skies: Far from urban light pollution, the night skies over the Saranac Lake Islands are often spectacular, offering incredible opportunities for stargazing.
• Unique Boat-In Experience: The adventure of reaching your campsite by boat adds an exciting and memorable dimension to your camping trip, making it much more than just a place to sleep.
• Connection to Nature: The primitive nature of the site encourages a deeper appreciation for the environment and provides an authentic backcountry feel, perfect for disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature.

As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) operated campground, Saranac Lake Islands Campground, including Campsite #82, generally does not run commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private business might. The camping fees are set by the DEC, and are standard across their system, with a surcharge for out-of-state residents.

However, for New York residents planning a trip, here are some points to consider that might be seen as "value" or "perks":

• Standardized Fees: The relatively consistent and affordable nightly camping fees ($22 per night as of current public data, with an additional $5 surcharge for out-of-state residents) offer a great value for access to such a unique and pristine natural environment.
• Early Booking Advantage: While not a discount, securing your reservation well in advance, especially for popular summer weekends, is a significant benefit for locals, ensuring you get your preferred island site, like #82, during peak season. Reservations can typically be made online via ReserveAmerica or through their call center.
• Off-Peak Season Camping: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall). While not a formal promotion, these times often offer fewer crowds, potentially better weather for hiking and paddling, and a more serene experience, which many locals find more appealing than the bustling summer months.
• NYS Park Passes: New York State residents may benefit from various state park passes, though direct discounts on DEC campground fees can vary. It’s always worth checking the latest information on the NYS Parks website for any relevant pass benefits.

The primary "special offer" of Saranac Lake Islands Campground truly is the unparalleled opportunity to experience pristine Adirondack island camping at a state-run facility, making a wilderness adventure accessible to many.

To obtain more information, make inquiries, or secure your reservation for Saranac Lake Islands Campground, including Campsite #82, New Yorkers can utilize the following contact details:

Campground Office/Information Phone: (518) 891-2841

Reservations Phone (ReserveAmerica): 1-800-456-2267

General Campground Address: 4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, NY 12983

It is important to remember that while a physical address for the main office is provided, Campsite #82 itself is located on an island and is only accessible by boat. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during the peak season from May through early September. You can typically make reservations online through the New York State Parks reservation system (often linked via ReserveAmerica). Be sure to specify "Saranac Lake Islands Campground" and then select your desired site, such as #82. Check-in procedures require you to sign for your site, and it's essential to have your camping equipment ready upon arrival at the boat launch.

For New Yorkers yearning for a genuine escape into the wild, Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #82 stands out as an exceptional choice. Its inherent suitability for locals stems from several key factors, blending accessibility with an authentic wilderness experience that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Firstly, the Adirondack Park is a jewel in New York's backyard, offering vast expanses of protected land and water. This campground, with its unique boat-access island sites, provides a level of immersion in nature that surpasses most drive-in options. For city dwellers and suburban residents, the journey to Campsite #82, which involves navigating the beautiful waters of Lower Saranac Lake, immediately signals a transition from daily life to an adventurous retreat. This forced detachment from vehicles and typical road noise creates an immediate sense of peace and solitude, allowing for a profound connection with the natural world.

The primitive nature of Campsite #82 encourages self-reliance and environmental stewardship, aligning perfectly with the "Leave No Trace" principles that are crucial for preserving the Adirondacks. This appeals to locals who are passionate about conservation and desire to experience nature responsibly. The direct water access from your island site offers endless recreational possibilities—from leisurely paddling to exhilarating fishing—all within a private and serene setting. It’s an ideal spot for families to teach children about nature, for friends to share unforgettable moments around a campfire, or for individuals to find quiet contemplation.

While secluded, the campground is still within a reasonable distance to the vibrant Tri-Lakes region, including the charming Village of Saranac Lake. This means that while you’re enjoying the raw beauty of the wilderness, you’re not entirely cut off from the possibility of resupplying, exploring local shops, or enjoying a meal out if desired. This balance of wild solitude and convenient proximity makes it incredibly appealing to New Yorkers looking for a deep dive into nature without sacrificing all modern conveniences. Campsite #82 offers not just a place to stay, but a transformative experience that celebrates the very best of New York’s natural heritage, providing a much-needed sanctuary for mind and spirit.

Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #82

Santa Clara, NY 12986, USA