Tioga Point Campground - Lean-To - Site #13

For New York residents looking to truly escape the reach of the modern world, Tioga Point Campground offers a legendary outdoor experience that begins long before you pitch a tent. Located on the eastern shores of Raquette Lake, this facility is one of the few campgrounds in the Adirondack Park accessible only by water. For local campers from the Capital Region, Central New York, and beyond, Tioga Point represents the pinnacle of primitive camping, where the absence of roads and cars ensures a level of tranquility that is impossible to find at drive-in sites. Site #13, a dedicated lean-to site, provides a classic Adirondack shelter that allows guests to stay close to nature while enjoying the protection of a traditional three-sided log structure.

The allure of Tioga Point, and specifically Site #13, lies in its rugged exclusivity. Because every camper must arrive by motorboat, canoe, or kayak, the atmosphere is inherently quieter and more adventurous. This is a place where the gear you pack must fit in your vessel, and your reward is a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular sunsets in the North Country. The campground is part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) system, preserving the natural landscape and providing a "back-to-basics" environment that emphasizes self-reliance, lakeside recreation, and the timeless beauty of the Adirondack wilderness.

Tioga Point Campground is located on the eastern side of Raquette Lake, within the town of Long Lake, NY 12847. While the mailing address is Long Lake, the primary access point is the village of Raquette Lake. For New York travelers, the journey typically involves taking the NYS Thruway (I-90) to Exit 31 at Utica, then traveling north on Route 12 to Route 28. Once you reach the village of Raquette Lake, you must launch your boat at the public launch in the center of town. From there, the campground is approximately a three-mile boat ride north. There are no roads leading directly to Site #13, making the water journey the only way to reach your destination.

In terms of accessibility, Tioga Point is a primitive facility designed for those who can navigate boat-in conditions. While the campground is secluded, the state has made efforts to ensure it is inclusive. The site features a wheelchair-accessible entrance from the water and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot at the boat launch in the village. There are also wheelchair-accessible restrooms (vault toilets) located within the campground loops. However, visitors should be prepared for natural, unpaved terrain between the shoreline and the lean-to structures. Because it is boat-access only, it is essential for guests to coordinate their own transportation or arrange for a boat rental from one of the marinas in Raquette Lake Village before arrival.

Tioga Point is a primitive campground, which means services are focused on supporting a self-sufficient camping experience. Unlike more developed parks, there is no potable water or electricity available on-site, which adds to its charm for experienced woodsmen and adventurous families. The services offered include:

• Dedicated lean-to shelters, like Site #13, which provide a permanent roof and three walls for protection against the elements.
• Boat-in registration and permit services (campers must register at the facility upon arrival after 2:00 p.m.).
• Canoe and kayak access points along the shoreline for easy landing and launching.
• Waste management services following a strict carry-in/carry-out policy to protect the lake’s ecosystem.
• Picnic facilities including heavy-duty tables and designated fire pits at each site.
• Access to the Tioga Point Trail, which connects the campground to the expansive Sargent Pond Wild Forest.
• Supervised beach areas (seasonal) and public pit toilets for basic sanitation needs.

The features of Tioga Point Campground make it a standout destination for those who love the water and the deep woods. Site #13 is particularly valued for its positioning and the specific amenities of a lean-to stay. Highlights of this location include:

• Uninterrupted views of Raquette Lake and the surrounding granite peaks of the Adirondack Mountains.
• Exceptional fishing opportunities for lake trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch right from the shoreline.
• A pet-friendly environment where dogs are allowed (with proof of rabies vaccination), making it a great choice for those traveling with four-legged companions.
• Close proximity to "The Adirondack Experience" museum and the village of Raquette Lake for daytime excursions via boat.
• Excellent stargazing conditions due to the total lack of light pollution from roads or commercial development.
• The unique "Lean-To" architecture of Site #13, which allows for an authentic Adirondack experience without the need to set up a tent.
• Abundant wildlife viewing, including frequent sightings of loons, bald eagles, and the occasional moose in the nearby coves.

For those interested in booking Site #13 or learning more about the seasonal operating dates, the DEC provides several contact methods. Reservations are highly recommended and are typically made through the ReserveAmerica system.

Address: Long Lake, NY 12847, USA (Accessible via Raquette Lake Village)

Phone: (315) 354-4101 (Seasonal Campground Office)

Alternative Phone: (315) 357-4230

What makes Tioga Point Site #13 worth choosing is the rare sense of isolation and immersion it provides. In a state as busy as New York, finding a place where you are truly separated from vehicle traffic is a luxury. Choosing a lean-to site like #13 is particularly worth it because it streamlines your camping gear; you don't need to worry about tent stakes or rain flies, allowing you more time to focus on the lake. The structure offers a sturdy, historic feel that connects you to the generations of Adirondack "guides" who used similar shelters while traversing these waters.

Furthermore, the location is a dream for paddlers and boaters. Having your vessel anchored just yards from where you sleep allows for early morning fishing trips or moonlit paddles that are simply not possible at drive-in campgrounds. The community at Tioga Point is often made up of fellow enthusiasts who appreciate the effort it takes to get there, leading to a friendly and respectful atmosphere. If you are looking for a place to disconnect from your devices and reconnect with the natural rhythm of the lake, Site #13 at Tioga Point is one of the most rewarding choices in the entire state of New York.

Would you like me to help you find a list of boat rental marinas in Raquette Lake Village or provide more details on the hiking trails that lead from the campground to Sargent Pond?