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Hidden CCC Camps In New York’s Adirondacks

Published:

by Mickie Barfield

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden gems tucked away in New York's Adirondacks? One such treasure is the CCC camps that played a crucial role during the Great Depression. These camps, established by the Civilian Conservation Corps, helped shape the natural beauty of the Adirondacks while providing jobs to thousands of young men. Today, many of these sites remain, offering a glimpse into history and a chance to explore nature. Whether you're a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, visiting these camps can be a rewarding experience. Ready to uncover the secrets of the CCC camps in the Adirondacks? Let's dive in!

Hidden CCC Camps in New York's Adirondacks

The Adirondacks, a vast and beautiful region in New York, is home to many hidden gems. Among these are the remnants of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps. These camps, established during the Great Depression, played a crucial role in developing the area's infrastructure and natural beauty. Let's uncover some of these hidden CCC camps.

1. Camp S-90 (Wanakena)

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, Camp S-90 in Wanakena is a historical treasure. This camp focused on reforestation, trail building, and fire prevention. Today, visitors can hike the trails and imagine the hard work that went into preserving this natural wonder.

2. Camp S-60 (Paul Smiths)

Located near Paul Smiths College, Camp S-60 is another hidden gem. The CCC workers here built roads, planted trees, and constructed fire towers. The college now uses some of the old camp buildings, blending history with education.

3. Camp S-72 (Tupper Lake)

Tupper Lake's Camp S-72 played a significant role in the area's development. The workers built trails, roads, and even a fish hatchery. Today, the remnants of this camp can be found along the trails, offering a glimpse into the past.

4. Camp S-118 (Newcomb)

Camp S-118 in Newcomb is a lesser-known site but equally important. The CCC workers here focused on forest management and fire prevention. The camp's legacy lives on through the well-maintained trails and fire towers that still stand.

5. Camp S-119 (Long Lake)

Long Lake's Camp S-119 is another hidden CCC camp worth exploring. The workers built roads, trails, and bridges, many of which are still in use today. The camp's history is preserved through local museums and historical markers.

6. Camp S-73 (Saranac Lake)

Saranac Lake's Camp S-73 is a fascinating site. The CCC workers here built trails, roads, and even a ski jump. The remnants of the camp can be found throughout the area, offering a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure.

7. Camp S-70 (Lake Placid)

Lake Placid, known for its Olympic history, is also home to Camp S-70. The CCC workers here built trails, roads, and helped develop the area's infrastructure. The camp's legacy is evident in the well-maintained trails and historical markers.

8. Camp S-71 (Keene Valley)

Keene Valley's Camp S-71 is a hidden gem in the Adirondacks. The CCC workers focused on trail building, reforestation, and fire prevention. The camp's history is preserved through the well-maintained trails and historical markers scattered throughout the area.

9. Camp S-74 (Indian Lake)

Indian Lake's Camp S-74 is another important CCC site. The workers built roads, trails, and bridges, many of which are still in use today. The camp's history is preserved through local museums and historical markers.

10. Camp S-75 (Speculator)

Speculator's Camp S-75 is a hidden treasure in the Adirondacks. The CCC workers focused on reforestation, trail building, and fire prevention. The camp's legacy lives on through the well-maintained trails and historical markers scattered throughout the area.

Discovering History in Nature

Exploring the hidden CCC camps in New York's Adirondacks offers a unique blend of history and nature. These sites, once bustling with activity, now provide a peaceful retreat for hikers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Walking through these areas, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, feel the hard work that went into building trails, and see the lasting impact of the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Visiting these camps not only enriches your knowledge of American history but also deepens your appreciation for the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these hidden gems are worth the trip. Pack your hiking boots, grab a map, and set out to uncover the stories etched into the landscape. The Adirondacks await, ready to share their secrets with those willing to explore.