Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #86

For New Yorkers seeking an extraordinary outdoor adventure, a true escape into the wild heart of the Adirondacks, the Saranac Lake Islands Campground presents a unique and captivating opportunity. Imagine a campsite where the sounds of traffic are replaced by the gentle lapping of water, and your neighbors are the abundant wildlife of the forest. Specifically, Campsite #86 offers such an experience, a secluded island retreat that promises an unforgettable journey into nature. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it’s an authentic wilderness immersion, accessible only by boat, ensuring a peaceful and private setting perfect for those who truly yearn to disconnect and embrace the pristine beauty of the Adirondack Park. It's an ideal spot for individuals, couples, or families who are prepared for a rustic yet rewarding camping experience, where the focus is on natural beauty, water-based recreation, and tranquil evenings under a star-filled sky.

The Saranac Lake Islands Campground is renowned for its distinctive boat-access campsites, and Campsite #86 is a prime example of these exclusive island havens. These sites provide a sense of true wilderness, making them a highly sought-after destination for seasoned campers and those looking for a unique Adirondack experience.

Saranac Lake Islands Campground is situated within the expansive and breathtaking Adirondack Park. Campsite #86 is specifically located in the vicinity of Wawbeek, NY 12945, USA, indicated by the address 7PP8+MC. It is crucial for prospective campers to understand that, like all sites at the Saranac Lake Islands Campground, Campsite #86 is BOAT ACCESS ONLY. This means direct vehicle access is not possible.

To reach your secluded island campsite, you will need to utilize one of the public boat launches in the surrounding area. A popular access point is the State Bridge Boat Launch Site, which can be found approximately 17 miles east of Tupper Lake on Route #3, or about 6 miles west of Saranac Lake on Route #3. Once your boat is launched, you will navigate the beautiful, interconnected waterways of the Saranac Lake chain. It is highly recommended to have a detailed map of the Saranac Lake Islands to accurately locate Campsite #86, as navigation can be part of the adventure. Parking at boat launch sites can be limited, especially during peak season, and campers may be directed to use municipal parking lots in the nearby Village of Saranac Lake. This boat-only access adds an exciting layer of adventure and ensures the remote, peaceful atmosphere that draws many New Yorkers to this unique camping destination.

• Primitive Camping: Campsite #86 offers a primitive camping experience. Each site typically includes essential amenities like a fireplace or fire ring for campfires and cooking, and a picnic table for dining and gathering.

• Outhouses: For camper convenience, outhouses (also known as pit privies) are provided at each individual campsite, maintaining the rustic nature of the island camping experience.

• Boat Launch Facilities: While the campground itself is on islands, designated boat launch sites are available on the mainland to facilitate access to the island campsites. These launches are crucial for getting your vessel onto the water.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase within the broader Saranac Lake Islands Campground area, typically at the mainland registration points. This helps prevent the spread of invasive species often associated with bringing outside firewood.

• Recycling Center Access: Although camping on the islands is a "carry-in, carry-out" experience for all refuse, campers with a valid permit can utilize recycling centers located at other New York State DEC campgrounds in the region for proper waste disposal.

• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved in advance, often up to nine months ahead of your desired dates, through the New York State Parks reservation system (typically via ReserveAmerica). Early booking is highly recommended due to the popularity of these unique sites.

• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are generally permitted at the campsites, provided they have proof of a current rabies vaccination and are kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.

• Exclusive Boat-Access Site: The most distinctive feature of Campsite #86, and indeed the entire Saranac Lake Islands Campground, is its boat-access-only nature. This ensures a truly secluded and peaceful environment, free from the noise and crowds associated with drive-in campgrounds, making it a perfect retreat for New Yorkers seeking genuine wilderness.

• Island Seclusion and Privacy: Being located on an island provides an unparalleled sense of privacy. Campsite #86 offers a unique opportunity to be surrounded by water and nature, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation and escaping daily stressors.

• Direct Water Access and Views: Each island campsite boasts direct access to the water, allowing campers to easily launch kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats right from their site. Enjoy waking up to picturesque water views and the convenience of stepping directly into your watercraft for a day of exploration.

• Exceptional Recreational Opportunities: The interconnected Saranac Lake chain offers a vast playground for water and land-based activities:

  • Boating and Paddling: Miles of waterways invite extensive exploration by canoe, kayak, or motorboat. Discover hidden coves, navigate through locks connecting different lakes, and enjoy scenic cruises.

  • Freshwater Fishing: The lakes are renowned for their excellent fishing, home to species such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, bullhead, and pickerel. It's a prime destination for anglers looking for a productive day on the water.

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: While the campsites are on islands, the surrounding Adirondack region provides an extensive network of hiking trails for all experience levels, including paths within the Saranac Lakes Wild Forest and proximity to the High Peaks Wilderness Area.

  • Swimming: The clear, refreshing waters of the Saranac Lakes offer opportunities for swimming directly from your campsite or at designated swimming areas within the broader campground system during supervised hours.

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: With primitive amenities and a focus on self-reliance, Campsite #86 embodies an authentic wilderness camping experience. It’s an opportunity to embrace simpler living, build campfires under the stars, and truly immerse oneself in the rhythms of nature.

• Stunning Adirondack Scenery: The Adirondacks are famous for their breathtaking natural beauty, and the Saranac Lake Islands are no exception. Expect majestic pine forests, rocky shorelines, and incredible sunrises and sunsets over the water, providing ample opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation.

While the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campgrounds, including Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #86, do not typically run frequent or specific seasonal promotions, it's always advisable for prospective campers to check the official New York State Parks or ReserveAmerica websites. These platforms are the primary channels for booking and provide the most up-to-date information on rates and any potential discounts. Occasionally, special offers might be available for longer stays, during off-peak seasons (such as late spring or early fall), or for specific groups like New York State residents, military personnel, or senior citizens. Furthermore, while not directly from the campground, local businesses in the Saranac Lake region—including outfitters, boat rental companies, and restaurants—may offer their own packages or discounts that complement a camping trip. For the most accurate and current information regarding any applicable promotions, it's best to visit the official reservation portal or directly contact the Saranac Lake Islands Campground at the provided phone number before finalizing your travel plans.

For reservations, inquiries, or additional information regarding Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #86, please use the following contact details:

Address: 7PP8+MC, Wawbeek, NY 12945, USA (Remember, this is a general location marker; the campsite is boat-access only.)

Campground Phone: (518) 891-2841

Online Reservations: Reservations can be made via the New York State Parks reservation system, typically through ReserveAmerica.

For New Yorkers eager to trade cityscapes for serene lake views and urban sounds for the whisper of the wind through pines, Saranac Lake Islands Campground, and particularly Campsite #86, is an ideal destination. Its unique boat-access-only nature immediately sets it apart, offering a level of seclusion and a true wilderness experience that is increasingly sought after yet rarely found. As locals, we are incredibly fortunate to have such pristine and well-preserved natural havens within a manageable distance, providing an essential antidote to the stresses of modern life.

This campground is perfectly suited for those who embrace the spirit of adventure and appreciate the quietude that comes with being truly off the beaten path. The necessity of boat travel to reach Campsite #86 is not a hurdle but an integral part of the experience, ensuring that only those truly committed to a deep immersion in nature will make the journey. This natural filter results in a more tranquil environment, allowing New Yorkers to truly unwind and reconnect with the natural world around them.

The vast, interconnected waterways of the Saranac Lake chain offer endless opportunities for recreation right from your campsite. Whether you’re an avid paddler, a keen angler, or simply enjoy a refreshing swim in clear waters, Campsite #86 provides the perfect base. It’s a chance to teach children about responsible outdoor living, to rekindle a passion for fishing, or to simply relax with a good book by a crackling campfire as the sun sets over the Adirondack peaks.

While the amenities are primitive, they are thoughtfully provided to enhance the rustic experience without compromising comfort. The "carry-in, carry-out" policy, a cornerstone of responsible outdoor recreation, reinforces the community's commitment to preserving these islands for generations to come. In essence, a trip to Campsite #86 at Saranac Lake Islands Campground is more than just a vacation; it's an investment in well-being, an opportunity to forge lasting memories, and a powerful reminder of the incredible natural treasures that lie just beyond our urban centers in New York State.

Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #86

7PP8+MC, Wawbeek, NY 12945, USA