Discover the historic beauty of Lake Sagamore on a guided paddle tour that combines natural serenity with Adirondack history. Perfect for all skill levels, this experience is a must-try for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior paddling experience needed
Wildlife
History
The Adirondacks became a designated National Historic Landmark in 1963, recognizing their cultural and ecological significance.
Conservation
The camp and lake area are actively managed to preserve the natural environment and historical integrity, promoting sustainable tourism.
Great Camp Sagamore
Discover the historic beauty of Lake Sagamore on a guided paddle tour that combines natural serenity with Adirondack history. Perfect for all skill levels, this experience is a must-try for outdoor enthusiasts.
Great Camp Sagamore is a historic Adirondack retreat on Raquette Lake, New York, celebrated for its preserved late-19th-century architecture and curated cultural programming. Built in 1897 for the Vanderbilt family, the camp comprises 27 historic buildings set on a lakeside estate within Adirondack Park. Visitors find guided history tours, interpretive hikes, paddles from the 1897 boathouse, and seasonal public events that highlight the camp’s architecture, engineering, and natural setting.
Program offerings include weekend commuter workshops and immersive retreats: a couples’ retreat and Imago-based communication workshop; nature-inspired art workshops led by instructor Terri Fraser; and beginner fly fishing weekends taught by instructor Cari Ray. Educational talks and history lectures are presented by historian Connor Williams, covering topics like presidential elections and the origins of the Great Camps and William West Durant’s architectural legacy.
On-water experiences feature a 1.5-hour guided paddle that interprets the landscape and built environment, while land programs range from full-day engineering history hikes to volunteer work weekends. The camp also hosts a free summer concert series supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, with performances in June through August.
Great Camp Sagamore balances historic preservation with public access, offering family-friendly tours with optional lakeside buffet lunches and commuter pass options for daytime participation. As a registered historic site within the Adirondack Park, the camp provides authentic, well-documented programming led by experienced instructors and historians, making it a reliable destination for history, arts, nature, and outdoor learning.
Public programs emphasize conservation, stewardship, and visitor education today.
Location
Raquette Lake, NY
Heart of Adirondack Park
Established
1897
Constructed for the Vanderbilt family
Historic Buildings
27
Preserved Adirondack structures on-site
Experiences
11 tours & events
Workshops, hikes, paddles, concerts
Reserve a tour, register for workshops, or explore commuter pass options to experience history and nature.
Bring Sunscreen and Water
Stay protected from the sun and stay hydrated during your paddle trip.
Wear a Life Jacket
Ensure safety by wearing a life jacket at all times while on the water.
Maintain a Steady Pace
Paddle at a comfortable speed to enjoy the scenery and avoid fatigue.
Arrive Early
Get ready and check equipment before departure to maximize your time on the water.
Paddling Shoes
Protect your feet and provide better grip when getting in and out of boats.
summer
Sun Hat
Shield your face from the sun during your paddle.
summer
Waterproof Camera
Capture scenic views and historic structures along the trip.
Light Snacks
Enjoy a quick refreshment during your lakeside break.