Caroga Lake Campground
00 review3043 State Highway 29A, CAROGA LAKE, New York, 12032, United States
Caroga Lake Campground
$9.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
With recent user reviews, a campsite averages $20 per night, while day passes are approximately $9.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of East Caroga Lake, this beloved campground offers the perfect blend of modern comforts and natural beauty. Whether you're lounging on the sandy beach, gathering around crackling campfires, or enjoying a lakeside picnic, you'll find everything needed for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. The campground's thoughtful amenities include hot showers to refresh after a day of exploration, convenient dump stations for RVs, and a welcoming bathhouse near the beach. During summer months, lifeguards watch over swimmers at the designated beach area, creating a safe haven for families to splash and play in the crystal-clear waters.
The campground offers tent and RV sites, but does not include electricity, water, or sewer hookups. Primitive and group camping options are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the southern Adirondacks. History comes alive with thrilling Battle of Johnstown reenactments, where musket fire echoes across the valleys and costumed interpreters recreate pivotal moments from America's past. For those seeking modern excitement, the roar of engines at nearby stock car races provides an adrenaline-pumping contrast to the peaceful lake setting, making this region a unique crossroads of historical preservation and contemporary entertainment.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of the Adirondack seasons at Caroga Lake. Summer brings pleasantly mild temperatures perfect for hiking and swimming, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally sweep across the lake, creating dramatic skies and refreshing the forest air. As autumn arrives, the surrounding woods burst into brilliant colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with freezing temperatures and substantial snowfall creating opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures right from your campsite.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position in the rolling hills of the southern Adirondacks provides gentle terrain perfect for family camping adventures and scenic vistas of the surrounding forest and lake.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the serene beauty of East Caroga Lake reflecting the morning sun through towering pines and hardwoods of the southern Adirondack forest. This enchanting landscape invites exploration along winding hiking trails that meander through dense woodlands, where wildlife sightings and hidden waterfalls reward patient observers. The interplay of water and forest creates countless picture-perfect moments, from misty dawns over the lake to golden sunsets filtering through the canopy.
Geological RegionSituated in the southern reaches of the magnificent Adirondack Park, the campground rests in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers. This enchanting region, dotted with pristine small lakes and blanketed in lush forests, showcases the timeless beauty of upstate New York's wilderness. East Caroga Lake itself sparkles like a jewel amid the rolling, forested terrain, offering a peaceful retreat within one of America's most treasured protected areas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAt least one site is explicitly mentioned as accessible for mobility-impaired visitors.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with maximum equipment lengths ranging from 0 to 40 feet depending on the loop and site.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews consistently describe campsites as small and lacking privacy. Comments include 'Campsites are practically on top of each other' and 'Sites are a little tight.'
Total Campsites105 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCheck sites after rain to ensure they aren't waterlogged. For privacy, some sites close to the shoreline are worth considering.
Best CampsitesSite #27 mentioned positively for its roominess and suitability for hammocks.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM to 9 PM.
Check-out
10 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 cumulative nights during peak season from July 1 through Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6individuals allowed per campsite, with 2 tents or 1 unit of wheeled camping equipment and 1 tent.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are grouped into loops, ranging from Loop A to Loop F.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the NYS DEC website.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable online; walk-ins are discouraged per authoritative sources.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy details available.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors have access to a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, picnicking, and wildlife observation. Specific reviews mention kayaking and canoeing opportunities and a small beach area with life guards.
Hiking
Hiking is available within 10 miles of the campground, though specific trails and difficulty levels are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with one user mentioning catching a smallmouth bass. However, fishing quality varies depending on location.Swimming
A guarded swimming area is available during the summer. The beach and swimming area are generally well-reviewed, though some users noted seasonal closures due to lifeguard availability.Boating
Boat rentals, including kayaks and canoes, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors must proceed to the beach for access after paying at the entrance.Beach activities
A small sand beach is available, described as 'nice' and 'beautiful' by reviewers. The beach area is equipped for swimming and sunbathing.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be built in fireplaces provided. Chainsaws are prohibited.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsReports of loud neighbors and unruly behavior based on user reviews. Wildlife and terrain hazards not explicitly mentioned.
Active alertsNone explicitly mentioned, but some sites under restoration.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital: Approx. 10 miles in Gloversville; Police: Local law enforcement in Gloversville.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingA recycling center is available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresEast Caroga Lake is accessible for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
Common complaintsNoise issues related to campers and dogs barking at night. Several complaints about restroom conditions and water outages.
HostStaff reviews indicate friendliness and responsiveness. No specific host contact info mentioned.
Campground Map
3043 State Highway 29A, CAROGA LAKE, New York, 12032, United States
Driving directionsFrom the East (Albany) - Take NYS Thruway (I-90W) to Exit 27/Amsterdam. Go North on Route 30 through Amsterdam and Perth. At the intersection of Routes 29 & 30 turn left onto Route 29. At the light take a right turn onto Route 29A. Stay on Route 29A for about 16 miles and the campground will be on the left. From West (Utica) Take NYS Thruway (I-90E) to Exit 29/Canajoharie. At stop sign turn right and follow Route 10 north to the intersection of Rte. 29A. Turn Right on 29A and the campground will be on the right.
Roads are paved and accessible year-round. Driving conditions are straightforward, with no seasonal closures mentioned.Nearby places
Gloversville: Approx. 8 miles, 15 minutes
Johnstown: Approx. 10 miles, 20 minutes
Nearby supplies
Convenience store within 10 miles
nearby shops in Gloversville offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Caroga Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The user reviews for Caroga Lake Campground paint a mixed picture. Common praises include friendly staff, clean facilities, and scenic views of the lake and beach. However, many reviews criticize the noisy atmosphere, lack of privacy, and unruly camper behavior. Maintenance issues, such as outdated bathrooms and occasional water outages, are also recurring themes.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'friendly and polite staff,' 'beautiful lake and beach,' and 'clean facilities.' A few users described memorable family experiences and appreciated the opportunity for...
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Common Concerns
Key complaints include noise levels at night ('quiet hours are not enforced'), unruly behavior from other campers, and maintenance problems such as 'no hot water in showers' and 'plywood stalls that...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend bringing a grill due to fire pit grates being widely spaced. Others suggest choosing campsite locations carefully to avoid waterlogged spots during rain. Some users note that...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer weekends can be particularly noisy and crowded, with some users experiencing unruly behavior from other campers. Memorial Day weekend and peak summer seasons tend to see...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The staff was very friendly and polite every time I interacted with them.' 2. 'Campsites are practically on top of each other and tiny.' 3. 'The beach is nice, life guard present.' 4. 'Bathrooms...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention some areas, such as Site #27, as spacious enough for tents and hammocks but limited to one car. Another user noted that certain sites become waterlogged after rain.
Accessibility Features
Accessible site availability is noted, but no specific reviews from users with disabilities are included.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with proof of rabies vaccination. One user mentioned taking their dog for a swim, indicating pet-friendly features.
Last updated August 10, 2025