Francis Lake

Francis Lake is a beautiful lake located in the foothills of the Adirondacks. While access is relatively easy, it rarely feels crowded, and a primitive campsite can be found on a point of land hidden away from view on the southeast corner of the lake. The lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of only 18 feet, and a mean depth of 5.2 feet. The beaver meadow found in the southeast bay is an especially interesting feature of the lake.

Covering an area of 137 acres, Francis Lake is by no means huge. A typical trip around the lake lasts about an hour and a half, making it an excellent after-work destination in the long evenings of summer. Its small size and shallow water make the water quite warm, and small rock islands can serve as miniature beaches for those looking to beat the heat. 

The launch site is found in the north corner of the lake, just off the Stillwater Road. The parking area is small, but the walk to the dock is short. This is a car-top launch site only.

Francis Lake is home to chain pickerel, yellow perch, brown bullhead, and pumpkinseed sunfish, though many of the fish are relatively small. Many native and migrating bird species can also be found in the surrounding forest. Loons are commonly found in the open water.

Take time to explore the several surprising bays with great scenery.