Camping, Legends, and Family Fun at Silver Lake, New York

Who is this for?
This article is for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors of New York, specifically those who wish to explore Silver Lake and have some family fun there.

Plenty of reasons exist to visit Silver Lake! There's fishing, boating, hiking, and more here. Look out below because you might get a surprise from the resident sea serpent who lurks in the waters. Whatever you enjoy doing, there is something here for you. So pack your camping gear and let's plunge into the waters!

What Should I Pack Before I Go?

"Be prepared" is the Boy Scout motto for a reason! If you want to have the best time on the lake, you should consider this your packing guide.

Swimsuits: Don't forget the most important thing to bring on the lake! Going in your clothes just isn't as fun.
Towels & Chairs: The lake should be enjoyed both in and out of the water. Pack a towel to dry off and a chair to relax on the shore.
Life Jackets & Floaties: Got little ones who can't swim quite yet? Make sure you have these so they can join in on all the aquatic fun!
Sunscreen & Bug spray: Besides the sea serpent, the sun and bugs are the most dangerous parts of this lake! Lather up so you don't regret this later.
Hat & Sunglasses: Not just for fashion! Though you do want to look good in the family pictures. Bring these for some extra protection from the sun's harmful rays.
Waterproof Phone Case: You'll want to capture the memories without worrying about your phone getting wet. You can also just pack a Ziplock plastic bag!
Fishing Gear: Lug your catch of the day back to the campsite for dinner! It makes for a more immersive experience if you catch your own food.
A Change of Clothes & Hiking Shoes: The lake's nearby mountain has a hike you can take after your day on the lake. Bring extra clothes so you can enjoy the scenery on this beautiful trail.

There is a lot more that you could bring to the lake, but those are some of the essentials. Be sure to pack what you and your family want to make the experience your own!

The Legend of the Silver Lake Sea Serpent

One of the most talked-about stories in the area is the Silver Lake sea serpent. This mythical creature was first "spotted" in the 1850s, capturing imaginations far and wide. The legend began when hotel owner A.B. Walker claimed to see a massive serpent swimming through the lake's calm waters.

News spread fast, and tourists poured in hoping for a glimpse. Though the sea serpent was later revealed to be a hoax, it became part of the lake's charm. Today, you'll still find sea serpent statues and souvenirs celebrating this quirky piece of local history. It's also a great story to tell kids around the campfire!

What Is There to Do on Silver Lake?

There is plenty! If you love the great outdoors, this is the place for you. With fishing, hiking, and boating at the ready, you will have a hard time being bored here!

Fishing
Anglers love this fishing spot for its peaceful setting and plentiful fish. Cast a line for largemouth bass, northern pike, and bluegill. Early mornings on the water are perfect for catching dinner—or just soaking in the beauty of the lake.

Boating
Bring your kayak, canoe, or small boat to explore the lake. Motorboats are welcome too! The calm waters make Silver Lake perfect for paddling and watching the sunset from the water. There are plenty of places to rent a boat, too! We recommend Silver Lake Marine in Silver Springs for their high rating and well-equipped boats.

Hiking
Looking to stretch your legs? Take a short drive to explore the Silver Lake Mountain Trail. This nearby hiking trail offers panoramic views and a chance to spot local wildlife. It's a great way to enjoy the area's natural beauty on foot.

Camping Near Silver Lake

A day of fishing, boating, and hiking just wouldn't be complete without a night sleeping under the stars. We recommend bringing the camping gear so you can enjoy the beautiful area at night! For the best experience, come visit us at Woodstream Campsite.

Why Stay at Woodstream Campsite?

Only minutes from Silver Lake
Perfect for families and outdoor lovers
Full hook-up RV sites, cabins, and tent spots
Planned weekend activities during summer
A short drive to hiking, shopping, and dining

Woodstream Campsite is your home base for exploring everything Silver Lake has to offer. With plenty of space to relax and play, it's the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dry Off in the Village of Perry, New York

After a day on the lake, dry off and explore the village of Perry, just minutes from Silver Lake. This small town is full of charm, creativity, and fun things to do—especially during the summer months!

Perry Chalk Art Festival
Every July, the streets of Perry come alive with color during the Perry Chalk Art Festival. Watch talented artists turn the sidewalks into stunning works of art, all made with chalk! There's live music, food trucks, and plenty of activities for the whole family. It's a great way to experience the local art scene and spend a relaxing afternoon off the water.

Silver Serpent Multisport Festival
Feeling active? Check out the Silver Serpent Multisport Festival, a big event that includes triathlons, bike races, and more. Whether you're racing or cheering from the sidelines, it's a thrilling way to experience the energy and excitement of the community.

Farmers' Market & Summer Saturdays Art Series
Start your weekend right at Perry's Farmers' Market, which kicks off the Summer Saturdays Art Series. Stroll through local produce stands, listen to live music, and check out local artists showing off their work. It's the perfect mix of shopping, snacking, and soaking in the summer vibe.

Charcoal Corral
No visit to Perry is complete without a stop at the Charcoal Corral. It's a family entertainment complex and casual eatery that serves up a variety of delicious food and entertainment. This includes twin drive-in movie screens showing first-run Hollywood Blockbusters, a championship 18-hole miniature golf course, a video arcade & game room, and a 40-foot mining sluice with continuous running water. Everyone can mine for gemstones, fossils, shark teeth, and arrowheads.

Book Your Stay at Woodstream Campsite Today!

Ready to make some memories by the lake? Whether you're chasing the sea serpent legend, enjoying a weekend of fishing, or hiking the nearby trails, Woodstream Campsite is your perfect base for fun and relaxation.

Plan your next adventure at Silver Lake and book your stay with Woodstream Campsite today. We can't wait to welcome you!