Moss Lake near Eagle Bay has an interesting history. From 1923 until 1972, it was the site of a girls camp. In 1974, after the state bought the property, Mohawk Indians took over the land and the buildings, naming their settlement Ganienkeh. They occupied Moss Lake for three years before reaching a settlement with the state. The buildings have since been demolished.
You can read about this history at the Moss Lake register before embarking on an easy, 2.5-mile hike around the lake, following old bridle paths once used by equestrians at summer camp. I usually do the Moss Lake loop counterclock-wise. Done in this direction, you soon come to a stretch of trail that has been graded for wheelchairs. A short side trail leads to a platform with a view of the lake. The main trail pulls away from the lake and ascends slightly, traversing rocky terrain, and then descends to a stream. At 1.3 miles, you cross the Moss Lake outlet on a wooden bridge. This is perhaps the most scenic spot on the loop.
At. 1.8 miles, you come to a junction with a trail that leads to Bubb Lake and Sis Lake. Bear left to stay on the loop. Soon after, you cross the lake’s inlet on another bridge. When you return to the register, take a short path to a sandy beach with a view of the lake.
The Moss Lake trail is wide and mostly smooth, making it ideal for trail running.
MOSS LAKE DIRECTIONS: From NY 28 in Eagle Bay, turn north onto Big Moose Road and drive 2.2 miles to a large parking area on the left. N 43° 47.322’, W 74° 50.654’
My name is Priscilla Underwood. I went to Moss Lake camp for 2 yrs and I would like to know why the camp closed. I sent the best 2 summers of my life there. Years I was there I believe we’re 1965 and 1966.I was a horseback rider.