Independence River

The Independence River Wild Forest is described as the Western Adirondack Preserve acreage lying adjacent to the western boundary of the Adirondack Park including the western portions of the Otter Creek and Independence River watersheds, extending from Lewis County into Herkimer County northeast along the south side of the Beaver River and Stillwater Reservoir and south of Beaver River.

Included are lands in Watsons East Triangle, Brantingham Tract, Macomb’s Purchase and John Brown Tract, encompassing both Lewis and Herkimer Counties. USGS 15Β½ minute quadrangle maps that cover this unit are: Big Moose, Lowville, Mc Keever, Number Four and Port Leyden.

Bounded by:

North: Number 4 Road; Stillwater Reservoir;
West: Exterior Forest Preserve Boundaries in the Towns of Greig, Lyonsdale and Watson; and Adirondack Park boundary;
South: Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness;
East: railroad tract from big Moose to Beaver River Station, Former International Paper Company lands.

http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/58192.html

Kayaking Francis Lake

Near Number 4 is Francis Lake on Stillwater Road. It’s not the world’s largest lake, but it does offer some interesting kayaking with good views, as you paddle around this lake. There are some private inholdings along the lake, but most of the lake is pretty wild.

Swimming Hole Off Old Edick Road

Click above to download the high resolution version of map for printing…

Pictures of the Trip…

Putting Out on Francis Lake

 Water is Bit Choppy on Francis Lake

In a Calmer Bay of Francis Lake

Exploring Rear Portion of Francis Lake

Trees Along Edge of Francis Lake