Lewey Lake Adventures In The Adirondacks

Lake Pleasant, NY (WIBX) - Camping is not for everyone. Some consider a 4 star hotel "camping" but, not me. I love camping. This past weekend my summer travel series took me to Lewey Lake in the Adirondacks. The trip is about an hour and a half drive north from Utica, (4155 Route 30N Lake Pleasant, NY 12108.) With gas prices slowly trickling down, it didn't cost too much to fill up the gas tank for the round trip. For about $60, we got a little more than 14 miles per gallon.

There are different levels of camping. One could think of it as a romantic time to share with someone special, others enjoy it as more of a long weekend gathering with friends, and some prefer it as a family friendly activity. But, regardless of how you like to get your camping groove on, the preparation, for the most part, is the same. From deciding on the items you want to bring--food, water, tent--to the items you won't need--mascara, two-piece suit--fine china--preparing for a weekend with mother nature is exciting.

Camping is more than sleeping under the stars, s'mores and camp side fires. It can actually serve as a platform of cooperation between people, developing better communication skills, (like knowing when to get out of the way when someone else is setting up the tent) or having the ability to actually relax and not be afraid of the bugs or every little noise you hear in the dark.

I had an idea of what to expect as we planned our trip however, I was a little surprised once we arrived. Lewey Lake is a popular destination for many. I expected a secluded area for us to set up our tent and enjoy nature but that was not entirely the case. There are more secluded areas to choose from if you reserve earlier in the year. Our spot, 89, wasn't too bad. We were relatively close to the water and the amenities. But, I could have gone without the arguing couple across from us. I thought there was a rule against yelling or arguing while camping?

Another factor about Lewey Lake that I could have done without is the sounds of cars driving along Route 30. Thankfully the cars and trucks passing by dwindle at night for a more peaceful experience. But, if you want a more relaxing camping experience look for a spot away from any major roads--the120s and above or anything near the water would have been more ideal for my liking. Lewey Lake is a beautiful, well run and safe place to go camping. It's family, couple and wallet friendly. There's a designated and well kept swim area for people to enjoy the water and there's even a life guard on duty until 6:00 p.m.

There were kids on bikes, families going on strolls throughout the park, father's playing basketball with their children and grandparents consoling cranky babies--Lewey Lake is a lively place. Another great aspect of the park is the proximity to great hiking trails. You can choose Snowy Mountain,  Chimney Mountain, or Goodnow Mountain--a recommendation from the nice clerk at the Adirondack Museum where we purchased Falcon guide book, Best Easy Day Hikes, Adirondacks. They're all relatively close to Lewey Lake. Visit, www.yourhikes.com for details on any hiking trail in the country.

You can also rent canoes or small motor boats at Lewey Lake but they don't offer kayaks. Another business about 30 minutes away does, and they will deliver the craft for a fee. The cost to rent a canoe at Lewey Lake is $20 a day or $6 an hour. The other business had higher prices. Sticking with Lewey Lake rentals throughout your stay is the better option for those looking to save some money.

There's also a mysterious element to Lewey Lake. When you're out on the water make sure you look to the mountains. If you look closely, you may see a face or two in the mountains directly to the right of the beach area near the entrance, facing the water. Although I sincerely enjoyed camping, the next time I go on such an excursion, a pop-up camper has to be involved--at least. It's not that I mind sleeping in a tent but, a sleeping bag, even with padding, can be brutal to the body. I ached throughout the night and after reading all the warnings about bears in the area and keeping food out of sight--I was a little nervous about being in a tent.

If hiking isn't your thing, then a drive to nearby Indian Lake could be fun. There were vendors lined up along the towns main street selling antiques and other items. I found a beautiful cast iron pot for only $20 that will go perfectly with my other cast iron cookware. And, the people were friendly too! As I briefly mentioned before, we also took a short drive to the Adirondack Museum near Blue Mountain Lake. It was absolutely beautiful! The cost to get in was $18 per person--a little steep but worth it. The big chair is even better in person. St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica is also mentioned in the museum. According to one exhibit, a logger survived a terrible wound after being transported to the hospital--they didn't expect him to make it but he survived. Of course, cooking is a major part of camping. We brought items to cook every day we were there so, we didn't have to go to a nearby town for dinner or lunch. Not only does this save money, it allows you to work together with every member of your family or group to prepare a meal. And cleaning up has to involve team work as well.

One of the best things we did on our weekend adventure is our stop for fresh spring water. Off of Route 30, near Lewey Lake, there's a spot--it's not very visible--where you can stop and fill up your water bottle with great spring water. It's amazing and best of all, it's free! Just look for the big white W on a red sign. Pull over and get some of the best water on earth, (from a natural spring in the area) right in the Adirondacks. The cost to stay at Lewey Lake for a weekend is $49. It's highly recommended that you reserve your spot early because they book up fast. To learn more about booking a camp site at Lewey Lake visit, http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/24475.html. It's certainly worth a visit this summer. Oh, and don't forget to wave at pig rock when you drive by!