Tioga Point Campground - Lean-To - Site #13

For New Yorkers seeking a profound departure from the everyday and an authentic immersion in nature, Tioga Point Campground offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. Specifically, Lean-To #13 at Tioga Point provides a quintessential Adirondack retreat, inviting campers to embrace simplicity and forge a deep connection with the serene beauty of Raquette Lake. This distinctive primitive campground sets itself apart with its exclusive boat-only access, guaranteeing a level of seclusion and tranquility that is increasingly rare to find. It’s more than just a place to set up camp; it’s an invitation to disconnect from the demands of urban life, embrace the quiet rhythms of the wild, and rediscover the profound peace that only the Adirondack Park can offer.

Under the stewardship of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Tioga Point Campground stands as a testament to the wild, untouched character of the Adirondacks. It has long been a favored destination for canoeists, kayakers, and motorboat enthusiasts who deeply value the quiet solitude that comes with a water-access-only site. The rustic charm of the lean-tos, including the individual allure of Lean-To #13, coupled with the intentional absence of modern conveniences like potable water, cultivates an authentic backcountry feel. This commitment to a truly primitive experience is precisely what draws generations of campers, many of whom have been visiting since the 1960s, continually drawn by the promise of private campsites, crystal-clear lake waters, and exceptional fishing opportunities. Tioga Point truly embodies the spirit of traditional Adirondack camping, where the emphasis is firmly placed on natural splendor and outdoor adventure, rather than on creature comforts.

Tioga Point Campground is nestled within the beautiful town of Long Lake, NY, directly on the shores of the magnificent Raquette Lake, a significant and stunning feature of the Adirondack Park. As a boat-access-only campground, its unique accessibility is both its defining characteristic and a crucial element for prospective campers to consider during their planning. To reach Tioga Point, campers typically commence their journey by launching their boats from the charming village of Raquette Lake. This village is conveniently located approximately three miles south of the campground, directly off Route 28. For those driving from the New York State Thruway (I-90), the most common route involves taking Exit 31 at Utica, then proceeding north on Route 12 to Alder Creek, and subsequently following Route 28 through the picturesque villages of Old Forge and Inlet until you arrive at the village of Raquette Lake. Alternatively, if your approach is from the Adirondack Northway (I-87), you would take Exit 23 at Warrensburg, then continue north on Route 9 to Route 28 West, passing through the lovely communities of Indian Lake and Blue Mountain Lake, and eventually reaching Raquette Lake Village. Once in the village, a public boat launch, typically found in the central part of town, serves as your gateway to the campground. From this launch point, Tioga Point is approximately three miles north, situated on the east side of Raquette Lake. This essential boat-in requirement means that all campers, including those destined for Lean-To #13, must be entirely self-sufficient, meticulously planning to bring all necessary provisions and ensuring their gear is suitable for transport by watercraft. This preparation is a small, yet rewarding, commitment for the unparalleled privacy and profound sense of escape that awaits.

As a designated primitive campground, Tioga Point is designed to offer essential amenities that support an authentic and low-impact camping experience, rather than extensive modern facilities. While it intentionally foregoes some of the conveniences found at more developed state campgrounds, it provides the fundamental elements necessary for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.

• 15 lean-to sites: These iconic, open-front shelters offer a unique and rustic alternative to traditional tent camping. They provide basic protection from the elements while maintaining an open connection to the natural surroundings. Lean-To #13 is one of these offerings, providing a designated, semi-sheltered space for your stay.
• 10 tent sites: For those who prefer the classic tent camping experience, clearly marked and maintained tent sites are also available throughout the campground.
• Picnic tables: Each individual campsite, including Lean-To #13, is thoughtfully equipped with a sturdy picnic table. This provides a convenient and dedicated surface for meal preparation, outdoor dining, and various other camp activities.
• Fireplaces: Designated fire rings are provided at each site, ensuring safe and contained campfires. These are perfect for cooking over an open flame, providing warmth on cooler evenings, and simply enhancing the overall ambiance under the vast Adirondack night sky.
• Outhouses: Primitive pit toilets are strategically located throughout the campground. Campers should be prepared for basic, non-flush restroom facilities as part of the authentic primitive camping experience.
• No potable water: It is absolutely crucial for all campers to bring their own supply of drinking water. Alternatively, campers must be thoroughly prepared with appropriate water filters or purification tablets/methods to safely treat and consume lake water.
• Carry-in/carry-out policy: To uphold the pristine wilderness environment, all garbage, waste, and personal items must be packed out by campers upon their departure. This policy strictly adheres to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the campground remains beautiful and unblemished for future visitors.
• Boat-in access only: This is the singular defining characteristic of Tioga Point, significantly contributing to a quieter, more private, and generally more serene camping environment, free from vehicle noise.
• Pet-friendly: Pets are welcome at Tioga Point Campground. Owners are required to provide proof of a current rabies vaccination upon request. All pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and remain under strict control at all times for the safety and comfort of all campers and wildlife. Please note that pets are not permitted within any facility structures, on the designated beach areas, or in day-use areas.

Tioga Point Campground, and particularly the experience offered by a site like Lean-To #13, is rich with features and highlights that consistently attract campers seeking a genuine Adirondack wilderness adventure.

• Exceptional Raquette Lake Access: As an exclusively boat-in campground, direct and extensive access to the magnificent Raquette Lake is a paramount feature. With its impressive 99 miles of shoreline, the lake is an ideal playground for a wide array of water activities. This includes motorboating, serene paddling (canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are all welcome), and offers particularly outstanding freshwater fishing opportunities. Anglers frequently report successful catches of a diverse array of fish, such as lake trout, brook trout, whitefish, smelt, smallmouth bass, sunfish, yellow perch, brown bullhead, and various minnow species.
• Unrivaled Seclusion: The boat-access-only nature of Tioga Point guarantees a significantly higher degree of privacy and a more remote, tranquil feel compared to any drive-in campground. This is especially true for the individual lean-to sites, which provide a unique blend of semi-sheltered accommodation and profound immersion in the natural surroundings, allowing for true quiet contemplation.
• Extensive Hiking Opportunities: The campground directly borders the expansive 36,000+ acre Sargent Pond Wild Forest Area, which provides an abundance of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels and preferences. The Tioga Point Trail conveniently begins right within the campground and seamlessly connects into this larger wild forest trail system, offering diverse terrain and incredibly scenic routes through the forest. A popular and highly recommended option for many campers is the hike to Lower Sargent Pond, which is easily accessible from the campground and widely known for its good fishing prospects.
• Authentic Primitive Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts who genuinely appreciate a "back to basics" approach to camping, Tioga Point consistently delivers. The strong emphasis on self-sufficiency, minimal environmental impact, and intentionally limited modern amenities creates a truly rustic, often challenging, but ultimately profoundly rewarding outdoor experience. It's a rare chance to truly disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with fundamental outdoor skills.
• Proximity to Regional Attractions: While Tioga Point offers a deep and fulfilling sense of seclusion, it remains within a reasonable boating or driving distance of several important Adirondack cultural and educational attractions. The Adirondack Experience, the Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, is approximately 12 miles east on Route 28 and offers fascinating insights into the region's rich history, art, and culture. The Adirondack Park Visitors Interpretive Center at Newcomb, located about 30 miles east on Route 28, provides engaging educational exhibits and additional scenic trails for leisurely exploration. Furthermore, the charming and nearby village of Raquette Lake offers convenient access to additional services like local restaurants and boat rentals, as well as opportunities for scenic lake excursions, for those moments when you desire a brief return to limited civilization.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The wild and largely undeveloped setting of Tioga Point provides frequent opportunities to observe native Adirondack wildlife in their natural habitat. This adds another captivating layer of immersion to the camping experience. Campers should always be mindful of potential bear activity and strictly adhere to proper food storage guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of both human visitors and local wildlife.

As a facility managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Tioga Point Campground operates under standardized fee structures and policies. The typical camping fee for a lean-to site such as #13 is generally $18 per night for New York State residents. An additional surcharge of $5 per night is applied for out-of-state residents. While traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense are not usually offered by state campgrounds, campers significantly benefit from the consistent affordability and broad accessibility of the New York State park system. Reservations for Tioga Point Campground, particularly for popular lean-to sites like #13, are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons which typically run from mid-May through Labor Day. Due to the limited number of sites and the campground's considerable popularity, booking well in advance is crucial to secure your desired spot. Reservations can be conveniently made online through the Reserve America platform or by calling their dedicated Call Center at 1-800-456-2267. It's important to note that while same-day reservations are allowed until 5 PM on the day of arrival, walk-in camping is generally not permitted for boat-in sites, further underscoring the necessity of advance booking. For the most current and accurate information regarding fees, availability, and specific booking procedures, it is always best practice to consult the official New York State DEC website or the Reserve America platform directly.

For inquiries and to secure your reservation at Tioga Point Campground, including a specific lean-to like #13, please utilize the following contact information:

Address: Long Lake, NY 12847, USA (Please note: This is the general geographic location; direct access to the campground is exclusively by boat from Raquette Lake.)

Campground Phone (Seasonal): (315) 354-4101

DEC Regional Office Phone (Year-Round): (518) 648-5616

Reservations: Reserve America (online at ReserveAmerica.com or via phone at 1-800-456-2267)

For New Yorkers eager to immerse themselves in a genuinely wild, profoundly peaceful, and truly restorative outdoor experience, Tioga Point Campground, and particularly the inviting charm of Lean-To #13, stands as an exceptional and highly recommended choice. Its defining characteristic – being accessible solely by boat – immediately promises a quieter, more private, and undeniably more adventurous camping trip, away from the sounds of road traffic. Imagine the serene journey across the clear, expansive waters of Raquette Lake, arriving at your secluded lean-to, and being surrounded solely by the natural symphony of the Adirondack wilderness. While the absence of potable water and modern showers signifies a more primitive approach to camping, it is precisely this rugged authenticity that deeply appeals to those who genuinely seek to unplug, simplify, and recharge their spirits. The opportunities for unparalleled fishing, tranquil paddling, and invigorating hiking within the vast Sargent Pond Wild Forest Area are boundless and cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Tioga Point is not merely a place to sleep; it serves as an ideal basecamp for deep exploration, a sanctuary for profound relaxation, and a perfect setting to forge enduring memories amidst some of New York State's most breathtaking and untouched landscapes. It offers a genuine, unfiltered slice of the Adirondack wilderness, making it a perfectly suitable and highly recommended destination for local New Yorkers ready to answer the call of the wild and embrace true outdoor adventure.

Tioga Point Campground - Lean-To - Site #13

Long Lake, NY 12847, USA