Tioga Point Campground - Lean-To - Site #11

For the dedicated outdoor enthusiast in the New York region, Tioga Point Campground represents the ultimate blend of rugged isolation and Adirondack charm. Located on a scenic peninsula within the expansive Raquette Lake, this destination is one of the few state-managed facilities that is entirely boat-access-only. This unique requirement naturally filters out the crowds found at mainland parks, creating a quiet, contemplative environment where the primary sounds are the lapping waves of the lake and the wind through the hemlocks. Site #11 is a premier choice for those seeking the traditional "Adirondack Lean-to" experience, offering a sturdy three-sided log structure that provides shelter while keeping you fully immersed in the natural landscape.

Operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Tioga Point occupies the site of a former boys' camp, which was transitioned into a public recreation area in the late 1960s. Today, it serves as a critical stop for paddlers on the Adirondack Canoe Route and a beloved destination for local families who have made boat-in camping a multi-generational tradition. Site #11 is situated in a particularly desirable section of the campground, part of a cluster of lean-tos that sit back slightly from the shore, providing a cool, wooded canopy and a sense of "wild" solitude that is difficult to find elsewhere in the Northeast.

Location and accessibility are the first things to understand when planning a visit to Site #11. The campground is technically addressed in Long Lake, NY, but the actual entry point is through the village of Raquette Lake. There is no road access to Tioga Point; to reach your campsite, you must launch a boat from the village boat launch or one of the local marinas. From the launch, it is approximately a three-mile voyage north across the lake. This logistical requirement means that every camper must be comfortable navigating watercraft and prepared to transport all their gear, food, and supplies by boat. For New Yorkers traveling from the south, the journey usually involves taking Route 28 through the scenic villages of Old Forge and Inlet, making the drive itself a beautiful introduction to the High Peaks region.

The "boat-in" nature of the site means that packing is an art form. Unlike car camping where you can over-pack, every item at Tioga Point must fit securely in your vessel. While larger motorboats can carry more luxuries, many visitors choose to arrive by canoe or kayak to fully embrace the spirit of the Adirondack wilderness. Upon arrival at the point, you will find Site #11 tucked into the woods, offering a level of privacy and protection from the elements that traditional tent sites lack. The lean-to structure itself is a classic piece of mountain architecture, featuring a raised wooden floor and a heavy timber roof designed to withstand the unpredictable mountain weather.

The services offered at Tioga Point Campground are intentionally primitive to preserve the "Forever Wild" character of the Adirondacks. It is important for local users to know that this is a "dry" campground, meaning there is no potable water available on-site. Campers must either bring their own water supply or be prepared to filter and treat water directly from Raquette Lake. While the amenities are minimal, the DEC provides the essential infrastructure needed to maintain a clean and managed environment for up to six people per site.

• Lean-to Shelter: Site #11 includes a classic three-sided Adirondack log lean-to with a wooden floor.
• Fireplace and Grate: A designated stone or metal fireplace is provided in front of the lean-to for cooking and warmth.
• Picnic Table: Each site is equipped with a sturdy wooden picnic table for gear organization and meals.
• Sanitation: Access to shared outhouses (pit privies) located within a short walking distance of the site loop.
• Staffing: Seasonal campground staff and Forest Rangers patrol the area to ensure safety and quiet hours are maintained.
• Carry-In/Carry-Out: A strict waste management policy ensures the point remains pristine by requiring all trash to be boated back out.

The features and highlights of Site #11 revolve around the spectacular geography of Raquette Lake. As the largest natural lake in the Adirondack Park, Raquette Lake offers nearly 100 miles of shoreline to explore. For those stationed at Tioga Point, the lake is your playground. The campground borders the 36,000-acre Sargent Pond Wild Forest, providing immediate access to a vast network of hiking trails that lead to remote ponds and mountain overlooks. Site #11 is particularly well-shaded by tall trees, offering relief from the summer sun while remaining only a short walk from the shoreline and the communal beach areas.

• Waterfront Recreation: Ideal for powerboating, sailing, water skiing, and long-distance paddling expeditions.
• Fishing: Raquette Lake is a premier fishery for lake trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch.
• Hiking: The Tioga Point Trail begins right in the campground, connecting you to miles of wilderness paths.
• Historic Interest: Proximity to "Great Camps" like Sagamore and the Adirondack Experience museum at Blue Mountain Lake.
• Wildlife Observation: Frequent sightings of loons, bald eagles, and the occasional black bear or moose.
• Star Gazing: With no light pollution and a wide horizon over the water, the night skies are remarkably clear.

For those ready to reserve Site #11, it is essential to use the official New York State booking channels. Tioga Point is a seasonal facility, typically operating from mid-May through Labor Day or early October. Because there are only 25 sites in total (15 lean-tos and 10 tent sites), reservations often fill up months in advance, particularly for the peak summer months.

• Address: Route 28 (Boat Access Only), Raquette Lake, NY 13436, USA.
• Campground Phone: (315) 354-4101.
• Regional Office Phone: (518) 648-5616.
• Reservations: Handled through the ReserveAmerica system under "Tioga Point Campground."

What is worth choosing when it comes to Tioga Point Site #11? It is the rare opportunity to feel truly "unplugged" without having to hike miles into the backcountry. Choosing a lean-to site specifically allows you to leave the tent at home, saving space in your boat and providing a unique, historic way to sleep under the stars. It is worth choosing for the morning view of the mist rising off Raquette Lake and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching your destination by water. For New Yorkers who value the history of the Adirondacks and the peace of a quiet lake, Site #11 is more than just a place to sleep—it is a destination that captures the soul of the North Country.

Furthermore, the managed nature of the campground ensures that even in this remote setting, you are part of a respectful community of outdoor lovers. The DEC's stewardship ensures that the site remains beautiful for the next generation of campers. If you are looking for a weekend that combines the thrill of boating with the simplicity of life in a log shelter, Site #11 at Tioga Point is an experience that should be on every New Yorker's bucket list.