One of the best short trips that I have taken in the Adirondacks was a solo kayak-camping trip up the Osgood River. I didn’t have a lot of time, so I only camped for one night, but that was perfect. This relatively short trip includes some excellent paddling through boreal forests and a beautiful camp site. The route I took began by launching in to Osgood Pond which is right off route 86 near Paul Smith’s College. The first leg of the journey requires a fairly lengthy paddle across open water to reach the Osgood, which flows out of the other side of Osgood Pond. This can be a very tough paddle if the wind is strong!
Looking toward the entrance to the Osgood River © John Wojcikiewicz
Once you reach the river, the wind dies down and the current is behind you. From the entrance, the river winds slowly through thick groves of fir and spruce, providing an excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
© John Wojcikiewicz
After about two miles, the river begins to open up…
Paddling down the Osgood River © John Wojcikiewicz
There is a really good camping spot on the right side of the river after about 2.5 miles. It is slightly raised from the river’s edge and the ground is covered in soft pine needles. There is plenty of room to pitch a tent and build a small fire. I arrived after a leisurely four-hour paddle, but it can be done much more quickly if you keep your head down.
Campsite on the Osgood River © John Wojcikiewicz
Looking back out to the river from the campsite provides a spectacular view! There is no better place to watch the sunset that I have found…
Sunset from the Osgood River campsite © John Wojcikiewicz
This is such a great two-day trip for anyone who wants immerse themselves in wilderness but doesn’t have the time or energy for a bigger multi-night endeavor.
The Adirondack Naturalist 