Cedar River Campsites

For those in the New York region seeking a truly authentic back-to-nature experience, Cedar River Campsites offers a gateway to one of the most rugged and beautiful sections of the Adirondack Park. Nestled along the winding banks of the Cedar River and adjacent to the expansive Cedar River Flow, these campsites serve as the eastern entrance to the famous Moose River Plains Wild Forest. This destination is a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize solitude, natural beauty, and the "Forever Wild" spirit over modern commercial amenities. Here, the hum of traffic is replaced by the soothing sound of flowing water and the rustle of white pines, providing a tranquil environment for a weekend escape or an extended wilderness adventure.

The appeal of Cedar River Campsites lies in its simplicity and its deep connection to the surrounding landscape. As a primitive camping area, it invites visitors to slow down and engage with the environment through activities like fishing for brook trout, paddling across the mirror-like surface of the Flow, or simply relaxing by a campfire under a vast, unpolluted sky. The community of Indian Lake is just a short drive away, providing a necessary link to supplies while allowing the campground itself to remain a secluded sanctuary within Hamilton County.

Location and Accessibility

Cedar River Campsites is located on Cedar River Road, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA. To reach the area from the main intersection in Indian Lake (Routes 28 and 30), travelers head north on Route 30 for approximately two miles before turning left onto Cedar River Road. The drive follows the river for about 12 miles on a road that transitions into a well-maintained gravel surface as it approaches the Wakely Dam area and the entrance to the Moose River Plains.

Accessibility is seasonal, as the road is typically closed to motor vehicles during the winter and "mud season," generally reopening in late May or by Memorial Day weekend. Because of the gravel terrain, high-clearance vehicles are recommended, though most standard cars can navigate the road with care during the peak summer months. For those arriving from Albany or Central New York, the journey offers a scenic transition from rolling hills into the high-peaks and river-valley topography characteristic of the central Adirondacks.

Services Offered

As a primitive camping destination managed within the New York State Forest Preserve, services are limited to maintain the area's wild character. Visitors should prepare to be self-sufficient, as there are no electrical hookups, running water, or centralized shower facilities. The services provided include:

• Designated roadside campsites marked with yellow "Camp Here" discs, offering a clear area for tents or small campers.
• Basic sanitation facilities in the form of pit privies (outhouses) located near major campsite clusters.
• Individual site improvements such as a heavy-duty stone fire ring and a sturdy wooden picnic table at most locations.
• Boat launching access for non-motorized watercraft at the Cedar River Flow, suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small rowboats.
• Administrative oversight by New York State Forest Rangers who patrol the area to ensure safety and environmental protection.
• Free camping for stays of up to three nights (permits are required from a forest ranger for longer stays or large groups).

Features and Highlights

The Cedar River area is a treasure trove of natural features that make it a standout destination for local New Yorkers. Key highlights include:

• Riverside Tranquility: Many sites are situated directly on the banks of the Cedar River, where campers can enjoy the therapeutic sound of flowing water and easy access for wading.
• Cedar River Flow: A 640-acre shallow wilderness lake created by Wakely Dam, offering exceptional flat-water paddling and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• World-Class Fishing: The river and flow are known for healthy populations of brook trout and brown trout, making it a premier spot for fly fishing.
• Hiking Trails: Proximity to major trailheads, including the hike to the Wakely Mountain Fire Tower, which provides a panoramic view of the entire Moose River Plains.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is a prime habitat for loons, bald eagles, ospreys, and white-tailed deer. Visitors frequently report seeing signs of black bears, emphasizing the area's untamed nature.
• Moose River Plains Access: As the gateway to over 100 miles of seasonal roads and trails, it serves as a perfect base camp for mountain bikers and backcountry explorers.

Contact Information

Because Cedar River Campsites are primitive and generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis, there is no central reservation office on-site. For general information or to inquire about road conditions, visitors can contact the regional authorities:

• Address: Cedar River Road (near Wakely Dam), Indian Lake, NY 12842.
• NYS DEC Region 5 Northville Office: (518) 863-4545
• Emergency/Forest Ranger Dispatch: (1-833) 697-7264
• Local Information: Indian Lake Chamber of Commerce at (518) 648-5112

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Cedar River Campsites is the ideal decision for the camper who wants to trade the "resort style" experience for true Adirondack solitude. What makes this spot particularly worth choosing is the combination of easy vehicle access to the sites with the immediate proximity to the West Canada Lake Wilderness. You get the benefit of being able to pack a full cooler and heavy gear in your car while still feeling as though you are miles away from the nearest town.

The riverside sites are especially prized; as noted by frequent visitors, falling asleep to the sound of the Cedar River is an experience that stays with you long after the trip ends. For families, it offers a wonderful, low-cost way to introduce children to the outdoors, teaching them about campfire safety, fishing, and the importance of "Leave No Trace" ethics. If you value a quiet morning on the water and the chance to see a loon emerge through the mist, Cedar River Campsites is undoubtedly one of the finest gems in the New York state park system.