Finding Sanford Lake Sanford was actually a very fortunate accident. We were out exploring and voila…we stumbled upon this picturesque lake and a small primitive campground. Nestled in the Birdseye Hollow State Forest, Sanford Lake is a little piece of paradise.
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Primitive Camping
This campground is classified as a “primitive campground.” However, this isn’t altogether as rustic as other state-designated campsites I have encountered. There is no fresh water available but there are port-a-potties on site (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Between you and me, as much as I dread port-a-potties, it beats the alternative.
There are 7 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. While all the sites are in the woods, some have a great view of Sanford Lake. All the sites are shaded and fairly far apart. A few even offer a little bit of privacy. These campsites are free but a permit is required to be able to camp here.
Traditionally, state-designated campsites are meant for tents. However, these sites are large enough to accommodate a camper or small RV.
Obtain a Permit
NYSDEC 7291 Coon Rd Bath, NY 14810
607-776-2165
Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Sanford Lake
Elevation: 1063 feet
Area: 30.6 acres
Shoreline Length: 1.2 miles
Boating
Sanford Lake is a great kayaking/canoeing lake. The Lake is beautiful and surrounded by forest. It is a very peaceful place to paddle. There is nothing stating that swimming is prohibited, although there are no lifeguards or beach on this lake. Only electric motors are allowed on this lake.
There is a boat launch with a ramp and a floating dock that has a neat feature, the EZ Launch wheelchair-accessible transfer systems. These wheelchair-accessible docks provide a place for people who are wheelchair-bound to be able to enjoy kayaking or canoeing by allowing them to easily transfer from their wheelchair into their canoe or kayak.
This is a DEC-managed lake, so it is important you have your life jackets or floatation devices in your boat. I promise you, (from personal experience) that if you happen to run into any DEC officers, you will receive a ticket if you don’t have them.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the lake. There is a large variety of fish and other aquatic life. Species of fish include Banded killifish, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, chain pickerel, common shiner, golden shiner, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed, and yellow perch.
There are lots of fish in this lake. You can clearly see them swimming around and they are very curious. I dangled my feet in the water and they swam over like I was handing out free food.
Again, as this is a DEC-managed lake, you will want to make sure that you have obtained a New York State fishing license. You can visit the DEC website to purchase and print your fishing license.
Hiking
There are quite a few trails throughout the Birdseye Hollow State Forest, including the Finger Lakes Trail. In the wintertime, all these trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Snowmobiling is only allowed on specially designated trails.
Wildlife
This is a very natural area, and therefore there are lots of chances to see wildlife. This area of New York is home to black bears, foxes, beavers, rabbits, porcupines, coyotes, skunks, minks, weasels, bobcats, opossums, white-tail deer, and raccoons. It is always exciting when you get to see wildlife but they should be viewed from a distance and never fed. It is important to never leave food out as it might attract animals to your campsite. Keep all food in sealed containers and do not store food inside your tent.