Saranac Lake Islands Campground - Campsite #85, Wawbeek, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York State residents yearning for a truly unplugged escape into nature, the Saranac Lake Islands Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity. Among its collection of 87 unique, boat-access-only sites lies Campsite #85, a specific waterfront location that promises privacy and a deep connection with the Adirondack wilderness. Campsite #85 is part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground system, renowned for its commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of the Saranac Chain of Lakes.

Unlike standard campgrounds where you park your car next to your tent, this entire facility operates on a primitive, water-only access model. Every camper must paddle or boat their gear, food, and supplies to their chosen site, creating an immediate sense of adventure and seclusion. Campsite #85, specifically, is located in the section that accesses Middle Saranac Lake and the connected Weller Pond area. This positioning offers campers a serene waterfront setting ideal for paddling, fishing, and quiet contemplation. By choosing a distinct site like #85, you are booking a specific parcel of waterfront solitude—complete with a designated tent area, fire ring, and private outhouse—ensuring your personal Adirondack experience is as isolated and peaceful as possible. It embodies the essence of canoe camping, making it a highly sought-after destination for those looking to temporarily trade city life for island time.

The overall campground system spans the Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes, providing a vast expanse of water recreation opportunities, making Campsite #85 a perfect launch point for exploring this extensive aquatic playground. This is wilderness camping at its finest, tailored for the serious outdoor enthusiast.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite #85 is not a roadside attraction; it is a point of destination within a large aquatic park, located on the shores of Middle Saranac Lake near the entrance to Weller Pond. While the exact on-site address is given by a general coordinate identifier (7PPC+X3, Wawbeek, NY 12945, USA), the critical logistical point for all visitors is the main registration area.

Key Accessibility and Logistics:

Mandatory Registration Point: All campers for Campsite #85 must first report to the main DEC Registration Booth, which is officially located at 4468 State Route 3, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. This main facility is approximately 6 miles west of the Village of Saranac Lake.
Boat-Access Only: After registration, the journey begins by water. Campsite #85 is on Middle Saranac Lake, a body of water that requires navigating through the water system. This necessitates bringing your own watercraft—canoe, kayak, or motorboat—or renting one from an area outfitter to reach your remote site.
Distance and Travel: Campsites in this area of the campground require a paddle or boat ride across the lake from the main launch site. Campsite #85's location provides direct access to Middle Saranac Lake, which is popular for its relatively quieter waters compared to the motorboat-heavy Lower Saranac.
Parking: While the campground registration is near a boat launch, space for vehicles is limited. Campers are restricted to two vehicles per site, and overflow parking may be required in municipal lots in the nearby village of Saranac Lake.

Services Offered

Given its designation as a primitive, boat-in campground, the services for Campsite #85 are focused on essential, sustainable camping infrastructure:

Site Furnishings: Campsite #85, like all island sites, is equipped with a picnic table, a fireplace or fire ring for cooking and campfires, and a private outhouse (vault toilet/latrine).
Mandatory Registration and Permits: The main registration office (located off Route 3) handles permits, check-in (2:00 PM), and check-out (11:00 AM), which is crucial for reserving this specific site well in advance.
Firewood Sales: DEC regulations strictly prohibit moving firewood long distances to prevent the spread of invasive species. Firewood is typically available for purchase at the main launch area to ensure compliance and support local forest health.
Carry-In, Carry-Out Waste Policy: Campsite #85 adheres to a strict "carry-in, carry-out" rule. All garbage must be packed out. Recycling is only available at other, nearby DEC campgrounds upon showing your camping permit.
Watercraft Launch and Mooring: A public boat launch is provided at the main facility for access. Campsite #85 features a designated landing area for mooring your boat or paddling vessels.
Primitive Conditions: It is vital to understand that this is primitive camping. There is no potable water on site, no electricity, and no shower facilities. Campers must bring their own water or be prepared to filter/treat lake water.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #85 provides a highly desirable set of features within the Saranac Lake Islands complex:

Middle Saranac Lake Access: The site’s location on Middle Saranac Lake means it benefits from a more tranquil, less heavily trafficked environment than the Lower Lake, making it ideal for peaceful paddling and fishing.
Proximity to Weller Pond: Campsite #85 is near the beautiful, quiet waters of Weller Pond, which offers a secluded side trip for paddlers seeking marshy, wildlife-rich coves and a more intimate lake experience.
Dedicated Waterfront Solitude: As a dedicated, boat-in waterfront site, #85 guarantees a spectacular view and an unparalleled level of privacy. Campers are truly immersed in the Adirondack forest and lake ecosystem.
Boating and Fishing Hub: The Saranac Chain of Lakes is renowned for excellent fishing (smallmouth bass, northern pike) and extensive boating. Campers can navigate the chain, utilizing the Upper Locks to explore other connecting lakes.
Access to Wilderness Trails: The campground is surrounded by the Saranac Lakes Wild Forest, offering nearby hiking and mountain biking opportunities once a camper returns to the mainland launch area.

Contact Information

While Campsite #85 is a remote point, all essential information and contact services flow through the main campground facility:

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

Campground Phone (General Information/Registration): (518) 891-2841

Note on Reservations: Campsite #85 is highly popular and should be reserved online via the New York State Parks reservation system (ReserveAmerica) well in advance, often up to nine months ahead, especially for summer dates.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Campsite #85 at Saranac Lake Islands Campground offers New York locals the ultimate antidote to urban stress. It is a genuine wilderness experience—accessible, yet profoundly remote. The entire journey, from securing your reservation to paddling your gear to your site, is an investment in an unparalleled level of privacy and natural immersion. For residents of New York who possess their own canoe, kayak, or boat, or are willing to rent one, this campsite provides a dedicated base for exploring the heart of the Adirondack Park’s aquatic landscape. The seclusion of being boat-access-only, coupled with the beauty of Middle Saranac Lake and Weller Pond, makes this a cherished location. It’s an ideal spot to teach family survival skills, enjoy uninterrupted starry nights, and appreciate the immense, protected natural resources that New York State proudly offers its citizens. Campsite #85 is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s your private portal to the peace and adventure of the Adirondacks.