Lake Clear Camp, Saranac Lake, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents seeking an authentic and memorable Adirondack escape, Lake Clear Camp presents an exceptional opportunity to connect with nature on one of the region's most pristine bodies of water. Situated on a scenic 91-acre peninsula directly on the shores of the famously clear Lake Clear, this property is truly an Adirondack gem. It serves as a base camp for those who crave lakeside tranquility combined with direct access to the expansive opportunities of the Adirondack Park.

While the property is well-known for hosting summer camp programs, it also offers facility rentals, including a variety of accommodations such as renovated cabins, primitive lean-tos, and areas for traditional tent camping for non-program users. The atmosphere is one of a traditional "Great Camp," surrounded by breathtaking state land and immediately adjacent to the renowned St. Regis Canoe Area. The commitment here is to a classic outdoor experience, highlighted by the gorgeous waterfront and the surrounding wooded trails. This is the ideal destination for families, groups, and individuals from the New York region looking for a peaceful and activity-rich outdoor retreat without the overwhelming crowds often found in more commercialized parts of the park. The beauty of the water, which one customer review praises for being "truly crystal clear," is a compelling reason alone to plan your visit.

Location and Accessibility

Lake Clear Camp boasts a prime location in the heart of the Tri-Lakes region of the Adirondacks, making it highly accessible for New York visitors driving up from downstate areas. The address is 6883 NY-30, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, USA. This positioning places the camp directly on New York State Route 30, a major thoroughfare, ensuring ease of navigation. It is just a short, scenic 20-mile drive from the Olympic Village of Lake Placid and only a few miles from the charming and historic village of Saranac Lake.

The camp’s location is a significant feature, as its peninsula setting on Lake Clear offers extensive lakefront access. Crucially, it is situated adjacent to the St. Regis Canoe Area, the state's only designated canoe wilderness, providing an unparalleled launch point for paddling expeditions. For those traveling from the New York Metropolitan area, the drive leads you through the magnificent landscapes of the Adirondack Park, culminating in a spot that feels remote and peaceful, yet remains conveniently close to local services in Saranac and Tupper Lakes.

Services Offered

Lake Clear Camp provides a range of accommodations and essential camp services for renters, focusing on a genuine and enriching Adirondack experience:

Diverse Lodging Options: The property offers flexibility with accommodations, including fully renovated cabins with bathrooms, comfortable lodges, and multiple rustic lean-to sites (such as the Ginsberg, Seven Dwarves, and White Oak units) for a more primitive camping feel. Areas for traditional tent camping are also available.
Waterfront Access: A private waterfront area is available for renters, ideal for swimming and boating activities on the crystal-clear Lake Clear.
Program and Activity Buildings: Facilities include a dining hall, a health center, and dedicated buildings used for various programs and activities, which may be available for large group rentals.
Basic Camp Amenities: Essential amenities often include full bathrooms in renovated cabins, outhouses near primitive sites, and potentially grills or fire pits at various spots, though specific amenities vary based on the chosen rental unit (cabin, lean-to, or tent site).
Recreation Equipment: While primarily a summer camp, a wide array of activities like archery, hiking, and primitive camping are part of the offerings, with equipment for water activities readily available for campers or renters through nearby outfitters.
Group and Family Rentals: The camp can accommodate large groups and is specifically set up for family camp periods, allowing multiple generations to enjoy the Adirondacks together.

Features / Highlights

The features of Lake Clear Camp appeal directly to New Yorkers seeking a high-quality outdoor experience centered on water and wilderness:

Crystal Clear Lake: The foremost highlight is the water quality of Lake Clear itself. As noted in customer feedback, the water is "truly crystal clear," making it exceptional for swimming, paddling, and enjoying the Adirondack scenery.
Direct Access to St. Regis Canoe Area: The camp's location on the peninsula is directly adjacent to the St. Regis Canoe Area, offering unparalleled, convenient entry into New York State's only canoe wilderness. This is a massive draw for kayakers and canoeists seeking multi-day backcountry trips.
91-Acre Private Peninsula: Being situated on a large, secluded peninsula ensures a high degree of privacy and immersion in the surrounding state forest land, contributing to a peaceful and quiet camping atmosphere.
Variety of Rustic Accommodations: The availability of screened-in lean-tos, such as those in the Ginsberg and Seven Dwarves areas, provides a comfortable, covered shelter that still delivers a rugged, outdoor camping feel, perfect for experiencing the Adirondack wilderness.
Proximity to Attractions: Located close to both Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, campers have the advantage of being able to easily access local shops, restaurants, the Wild Center museum, and the Olympic Legacy Sites, balancing wilderness solitude with regional cultural activities.

Contact Information

For New York residents interested in learning more about facility rentals, availability, and specific amenities at Lake Clear Camp, please use the following contact information:

Address: 6883 NY-30, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, USA
Phone: (518) 563-1560
Mobile Phone: +1 518-563-1560

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lake Clear Camp is an outstanding choice for New York locals because it offers a rare and balanced Adirondack experience. It perfectly bridges the desire for a deep wilderness connection with the convenience of varied, established accommodations. For those accustomed to the hustle and bustle of downstate New York, the crystal-clear water of Lake Clear provides an immediate sense of peace and cleanliness, offering a restorative escape.

The camp’s location is a strategic advantage for New Yorkers. It sits directly on the boundary of the St. Regis Canoe Area, providing world-class paddling right outside your cabin or lean-to door. This makes it an ideal central base for exploring the best of what the Adirondacks have to offer, from flatwater canoeing to High Peaks hiking, all while benefiting from the infrastructure of a historic, established camp property. Whether you are looking for a fully equipped family cabin or a simple lean-to next to a clear lake, Lake Clear Camp provides an accessible, authentic, and high-quality recreational experience that celebrates the natural heritage of New York State.