How much does camping cost at Saranac Lake Islands?

Camping fees at Saranac Lake Islands range from $150/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Saranac Lake Islands first-come first-served or reservation?

Saranac Lake Islands accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Saranac Lake Islands before I book?

Yes! Saranac Lake Islands has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Saranac Lake Islands?

Saranac Lake Islands is open July 1 through Labor Day. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Saranac Lake Islands?

Saranac Lake Islands does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Saranac Lake Islands have?

Saranac Lake Islands has 87 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Saranac Lake Islands?

Yes, pets are allowed at Saranac Lake Islands. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Saranac Lake Islands?

Saranac Lake Islands offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Saranac Lake Islands?

Popular activities at Saranac Lake Islands include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Saranac Lake Islands

Q: Can I have a campfire at Saranac Lake Islands?

Fire policies at Saranac Lake Islands: Fires are permitted only in designated pits and must use dead wood from the ground. Chainsaws are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.52

96 reviews

4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, New York, 12983, United States

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping New York Summer Camping New York Tent Camping New York +8 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,581 ft

Price

$150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

87 campsites

Season

Season Schedule Park...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Saranac Lake Islands Campground Official Website

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,581 ft

Price

$150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

87 campsites

Season

Season Schedule Park...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Saranac Lake Islands Campground Official Website

Get Directions

Saranac Lake Islands

$150.00 - $150.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Boats to access campsites may cost $150 per day for four people, depending on rental facilities.

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, New York, 12983, United States

Saranac Lake Islands

4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, New York, 12983, United States

Nearby places

Saranac Lake (6 miles, 10-minute drive), Tupper Lake (17 miles, 20-minute drive), Lake Placid (7 miles, 15-minute drive)

Nearby supplies

Convenience stores, restaurants, and fuel options are available within 10 miles at the Village of Saranac Lake. Meadowbrook Campground, about 6 miles away, offers shower facilities.

Weather at Saranac Lake Islands

Current alert: No current alerts provided, but caution is advised regarding dead trees and rocky shores.

Best Time to Camp at Saranac Lake Islands

Summer brings daytime highs in the 60s to low 70s°F, with nights in the 40s to 50s°F. It's the most reliable season for swimming, paddling, and fishing, with long daylight for campfires and island-hopping. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so pack rain gear. Expect crowds on summer weekends and note the 14-night cumulative limit from July onward. Autumn cools to 40-60°F with fall foliage reflected in the lake. Winter drops to 10-30°F, freezing the lake solid and burying the islands in snow. Spring thaws slowly with melting ice and returning wildlife.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Peak season; best for swimming, paddling and long daylight island-hopping per reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: July 1 through Labor Day. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Season Schedule Park Season Start End Core Fri May 15 2026 Tue Jun 30 2026 Peak Wed Jul 01 2026 Sun Sep 06 2026 Non Peak Mon Sep 07 2026 Sat Sep 12 2026

About Saranac Lake Islands

Saranac Lake Islands sits scattered across Lower Saranac Lake at 1,581 feet, with 87 boat-access-only sites ranging from tent pads to primitive lean-tos. Each island campsite accommodates up to 6 people and 2 tents (or 1 hard-wheeled unit and 1 tent), with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. A network of historic locks connects four lakes, opening routes for paddling and fishing. Sites run $150 per night. You'll need a boat. Reviews recommend renting a motorboat for distant islands.

Primitive camping is the focus at Saranac Lake Islands, with options for tent and group camping. All campsites are boat-access-only, enhancing their secluded nature.

Historical Significance

The islands sit in the Tri-Lakes region of Adirondack Park, a six-million-acre preserve that reflects New York's commitment to wild spaces. The area has indigenous heritage, though specific tribal details aren't documented in available records. Waters here have carried Native American traders and later gilded-age vacationers seeking escape from city life.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs in the 60s to low 70s°F, with nights in the 40s to 50s°F. It's the most reliable season for swimming, paddling, and fishing, with long daylight for campfires and island-hopping. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so pack rain gear. Expect crowds on summer weekends and note the 14-night cumulative limit from July onward. Autumn cools to 40-60°F with fall foliage reflected in the lake. Winter drops to 10-30°F, freezing the lake solid and burying the islands in snow. Spring thaws slowly with melting ice and returning wildlife.

ElevationNestled within the majestic Adirondack Mountains, these island campsites offer ever-changing perspectives of the surrounding peaks and valleys. While specific elevation markers remain nature's secret, campers experience the gentle rise and fall of ancient bedrock islands, each offering its own unique vantage point over the interconnected waterways below.

Natural Features and SceneryThe islands rise from waters surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, part of one of North America's oldest ranges within the six-million-acre Adirondack Park. Exposed bedrock tells billions of years of geological history, while dense hemlock and white pine forests cover the island interiors. Rocky shorelines dominate most sites (a common complaint in reviews), though some areas offer sandy bottoms visible through crystal-clear water. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, black bears on distant shores, white-tailed deer, and loons. One reviewer called it "one of the most gorgeous camping places in the Adirondacks." The downside: light and noise from nearby towns carry across the water, diminishing the wilderness feel.

Geological RegionThe Saranac Lake Islands emerge from waters cradled by the ancient Adirondack Mountains, part of one of North America's oldest mountain ranges within the magnificent six-million-acre Adirondack Park. This geological wonderland showcases billions of years of Earth's history through exposed bedrock, glacial valleys filled with pristine lakes, and dense boreal forests that blanket the mountainsides. The interplay of water and stone has created a labyrinth of lakes, channels, and islands that defines this remarkable landscape, offering campers a front-row seat to the ongoing story written by ice, water, and time.

Scenic ViewsThe campground offers stunning views of the mountains and lake. Popular vistas include sunset views across the lake and star-filled night skies.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or similar accommodations are available. This is a primitive camping experience.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information about cultural or educational programs is provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

From 2 PM until 9 PM.

Check-out

By 10 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum camping permit duration of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 individuals, 1 tent and 1 wheeled camping unit, or 2 tents.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutIsland sites spread across Lower Saranac Lake with boat-access-only entry. No docks. Reviews warn about rocky shores making landings tricky. Sites vary in layout, with some offering lean-tos and others just tent pads. Spacing between islands provides natural seclusion, though amenities are minimal (outhouses only, no potable water). Pack light and bring everything you need, since returning to the mainland is a hassle.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the official campground website or by contacting the registration booth.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited, and advanced reservations are highly recommended due to the popularity of the location during peak times.

Cancellation PolicyCampers must register by 9:00 PM on the first night, or the campsite may be re-rented, and fees forfeited.

AccessibilityAt least one accessible site is available, but visitors must meet specific criteria for mobility impairment (e.g., requiring a wheelchair or walker).

Site SizeCampsite sizes accommodate up to 6 people and 2 tents, or 1 hard-wheeled camping unit and 1 tent.

PrivacyMany campsites offer a sense of exclusivity due to the boat-access-only setup. Some reviews highlight a sense of seclusion, with comments like, 'If you're lucky, you might even have an island all to your own.

Total Campsites87 campsites

Recommended SitesSites on Middle Saranac Lake offer more privacy and wilderness experience. Users recommend packing light due to lengthy paddling trips to some sites.

Best CampsitesSite 87 on Middle Saranac Lake has a lean-to and easy swimming access. Reviews mention that if you're lucky, you might get an island entirely to yourself, though specific site numbers with the best seclusion aren't detailed in feedback.

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Amenities available

Camping is primitive. No potable water available. Outhouses at each location.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Saranac Lake Islands offers a variety of outdoor activities focused on water-based and wilderness experiences. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe rugged terrain and rocky shores pose challenges for boat docking. Dead trees near campsites may fall unexpectedly. Wildlife encounters with snakes, bear, and deer have been reported. Swimming off unsupervised areas like Bluff Island is dangerous and has led to severe injuries.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; sites are equipped with outhouses.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated pits and must use dead wood from the ground. Chainsaws are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Emergency ServicesThe nearest hospital is about 10 miles away, located in Saranac Lake. Police and ranger stations can also be found in the nearby Village of Saranac Lake.

Trash & RecyclingCarry-in, carry-out policy for trash. Recycling available at other DEC campgrounds upon showing a valid camping permit.

Water FeaturesSurrounded by Lower Saranac Lake with direct water access for fishing, boating, and swimming. Eagle Island and Bluff Island are notable landmarks.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception details are not explicitly provided in the source material.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

96 reviews

Top-Rated

Saranac Lake Islands is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the wilderness experience, scenic beauty, and exclusivity of the boat-in sites. Some issues raised include rocky shorelines, lack of proper docking facilities, and minimal amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 96 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 96 reviews.

Site 87Mentioned
Site 87 was noted for its convenience and lean-to availability during rainy weather.
Site 16Mentioned
Site 16 was reported to have a unique snake sighting event.

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the exclusivity of boat-in camping, the stunning natural scenery, and the opportunity to engage in various water-based activities. One reviewer claimed, 'This is wilderness camping...

Based on 96 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints include poor restroom facilities ('People like me won't appreciate the restroom situation there but hey, you are going to the woods'), the lack of docking infrastructure...

Based on 96 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend packing light due to the boat-in nature of the sites and bringing all necessary supplies, as returning to the mainland can be cumbersome. Renting a motorboat is advised for distant...

Based on 96 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is popular during summer months, with reviews highlighting the pristine lake and recreation opportunities. However, rainy weather can affect the experience, as noted by a user who...

Based on 96 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Pack light, because you have to paddle for a while, but it's worth it!" - Daryl Menton. "No docks! Very rocky shores... had to throw anchor about 20ft from shore and carry everything we needed..." -...

Based on 96 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed accessibility reviews from users, though one accessible site is noted in authoritative sources with strict eligibility criteria.

Based on 96 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground, and reviewers with dogs seem satisfied as long as leash and vaccination requirements are followed.

Based on 96 reviews

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Go if

Paddlers, kayakers, and anglers who can handle rocky shore landings and pack in everything they need. Site 87 has a lean-to worth grabbing for rainy stretches, and a motorboat rental opens up the more distant islands where bald eagles and loons are regular company.

Skip if

Outhouse-only facilities and no running water are genuine dealbreakers here, not quirks. Add unpredictable docking on rocky shores, $150/night fees, and light bleed from nearby roads, and campers expecting a clean, easy wilderness experience will leave disappointed.

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Meadowbrook Public Campground

1174 NYS ROUTE 86, RAYBROOK, New York, 12977, United States

Meadowbrook Public Campground sits between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake at 1,621 feet, offering 62 tent and RV sites for $6–18 per night. The location puts you close to Adirondack hiking, paddling, and local restaurants, though road noise and nearby businesses affect some sites. Clean facilities and hot showers make this a practical basecamp for exploring the region.