Tioga Point Campground - Lean-To - Site #10

For those in the New York region seeking a truly disconnected and rugged outdoor experience, Tioga Point Campground offers a rare opportunity to escape the typical drive-in camping scene. Located on a scenic peninsula within the expansive Raquette Lake, this destination is managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and is celebrated for its exclusive boat-access-only policy. Specifically, Site #10 provides a classic Adirondack lean-to experience, where the sounds of modern traffic are replaced by the rhythmic calls of loons and the gentle lap of lake water against the rocky shoreline. It is a premier choice for local campers who value privacy and the traditional "Forever Wild" spirit of the Adirondack Park.

Site #10 is a dedicated lean-to site, featuring a three-sided log structure that provides a sturdy, permanent shelter for visitors. This style of camping allows you to sleep close to nature while remaining protected from the elements, eliminating the need for complex tent setups. The campsite is positioned to take full advantage of the natural topography of Tioga Point, offering breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding mountain silhouettes. Whether you are arriving by motorboat, canoe, or kayak, Site #10 serves as a sanctuary for those looking to immerse themselves in the deep woods of Hamilton County while enjoying a prime waterfront location.

Location and Accessibility

Tioga Point Campground is located within the town of Long Lake, NY 12847, specifically situated on the eastern shores of Raquette Lake. The defining feature of this campground is its lack of road access. To reach Site #10, visitors must travel by water, making the journey an integral part of the adventure. Most local users launch their vessels from the village of Raquette Lake, which is located approximately three miles south of the campground. Alternatively, the boat launch at Golden Beach Campground provides another viable entry point for those paddling or motoring to the peninsula.

Because the site is accessible only by boat, planning is essential. Campers must transport all their gear, food, and supplies across the lake. While the remote nature of the site ensures a quiet atmosphere, it also requires a self-sufficient approach. Upon arrival at the peninsula, Site #10 is easily identifiable and provides a convenient landing area for watercraft. Visitors should be aware that New York State requires all campers to register for their specific site and follow all DEC regulations regarding boat safety and aquatic invasive species prevention before embarking on their trip.

Services Offered

As a primitive facility, Tioga Point focuses on providing essential infrastructure that supports a backcountry experience without compromising the natural environment. The services provided at the campground include:

• Provision of a traditional Adirondack lean-to at Site #10, suitable for up to six occupants.
• Administrative support and check-in services through the on-site campground caretaker and ranger station.
• Access to communal pit toilets (outhouses) maintained by DEC staff to ensure sanitary conditions in a remote setting.
• Established fire rings and fireplaces at each site for safe cooking and nighttime campfires.
• Waste management guidance following the "Carry-In, Carry-Out" policy to preserve the pristine nature of Raquette Lake.
• Information on local weather patterns and lake conditions provided by the facility staff during the operating season.

Features and Highlights

Staying at Site #10 places you in the heart of one of the most diverse recreational areas in Northern New York. The features of the site and the surrounding park include:

• Raquette Lake Access: Direct and easy access to the water for swimming, fishing, and boating right from the edge of your campsite.
• Sargent Pond Wild Forest: The campground borders over 36,000 acres of protected wilderness, offering an extensive network of trails for hiking and nature photography.
• Pristine Fishing: Raquette Lake is a renowned fishery, home to lake trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch, making Site #10 an ideal base for anglers.
• Tioga Point Trail: A local hiking trail that begins right within the campground, connecting visitors to the larger Adirondack trail system.
• Wildlife Observation: The secluded nature of the peninsula makes it a prime location for spotting bald eagles, ospreys, and the vibrant fall foliage for which the region is famous.
• Historic Atmosphere: The site carries a rich history, having previously served as a boy’s camp, and retains a nostalgic, communal feel despite the privacy of the individual sites.

Contact Information

To book your stay or to obtain the most current information regarding seasonal dates and site availability, you can contact the facility using the details below:

• Address: Tioga Point Campground, Route 28, Long Lake, NY 12847, USA.
• Campground Phone: (315) 354-4101
• Regional Office Phone: (518) 648-5616
• Reservations: Online bookings are managed via the ReserveAmerica platform for New York State DEC campgrounds.

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Site #10 at Tioga Point Campground is an excellent decision for anyone who wants to experience the Adirondacks as they were meant to be seen. The primary advantage of this site is the unparalleled sense of serenity that comes with boat-access-only camping. While drive-in sites often suffer from noise and overcrowding, Site #10 offers a peaceful retreat where the primary sounds are those of the forest. The lean-to structure itself is a major draw, providing a sense of history and rugged comfort that makes your stay feel like a true expedition.

Furthermore, the location is perfect for those who enjoy water-based recreation. Being able to wake up and immediately launch a kayak into the morning mist of Raquette Lake is a luxury that few other campgrounds can offer. For local New Yorkers looking to challenge themselves with a more adventurous camping style, Tioga Point Site #10 provides the perfect balance of primitive isolation and managed safety. It is a destination that rewards effort with incredible views, world-class fishing, and memories of a lifetime in the heart of the Adirondack wilderness.