Mason Lake

Mason Lake, nestled in Speculator, offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts. This picturesque lake presents ample kayaking opportunities, inviting you to paddle through its tranquil waters and savor the surrounding beauty. Beyond the lake, adventure awaits with easy access to the nearby bike trails in Perkins Clearing, providing a chance to explore the lush landscapes on two wheels.

For those seeking a camping retreat, Mason Lake delivers free roadside camping options both near the lake and along Mason Lake Road and Perkins Clearing Road. These convenient camping sites enable you to immerse in nature without compromising comfort. Whether you’re drawn to the water’s edge or prefer a more secluded spot along the roadsides, Mason Lake provides a unique and enriching outdoor experience for those seeking relaxation, exploration, and the joys of both kayaking and biking in the heart of nature.

Camping at Mason Lake

There are 12 primitive campsites on or around Mason Lake, right south of the intersection of NY 30 and Jessup Lake Road, along with a scattering of designated sites in International Paper Easement. I camped there on the night of July 31st of this year. There is no firewood locally, you’ll have to buy some and haul it on the site.

NY 30

Click to download high resolution map for printing. Be aware I added these campsites, and the Unit Plan calls for changes in the layout of campsites, so the site locations may have changed.

The campsites on Mason Lake are fairly popular, and if you want one lake, you will have to get there early.

Mason Lake

Otherwise, the sites off the lake and nearby lake are often open, and the scattered designated sites throughout Perkins Clearing are rarely used. I hiked Pillsbury Mountain in the morning, and didn’t arrive until evening, so I had this site across Jessup River Road, a short walk to the lake.

Train

Campsite on Jessup River Road

Cleaning Up Site

Mason Lake in afternoon has some amazing reflections, of Floodwood Mountain. It’s not perfectly quiet, due to several campsites around, and the noise from NY 30’s traffic, but it is the closest free camping area on NY 30, just being North of Spectulator.

Mason Lake

Reflection

Lillies at Jessup River

Blackwater Falls  [Expires November 7 2023]

Mason Lake in the first light of the morning.

Mason Lake

Towards Floodwood Mountain

Mason Lake Map.