Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Raquette Lake?
Raquette Lake is in the heart of New York's Adirondack Mountains, approximately 80 miles north of our home in Oriskany and approximately 300 miles northwest of New York City.

Can I drive to The Brightside?
No, The BrightSide is only accessible by boat. Simply drive to the Village of Raquette Lake where a water shuttle will be available.

Will I need to bring my own food?
No, BrightSide has a professional staff waiting for you with freshly prepared meals; simply, come and enjoy.

Will alcoholic beverages be available?
Yes, we have a wide variety of beers, an excellent selection of wine, and also have liquor and mixed drinks upon request.
Please let us know of any special requests, we will do our best to accommodate you.

Are there any golf courses nearby?
The Inlet Golf Club is only 15 minutes away and Thendara Golf Club is about 40 minutes away in Old Forge. We would be more than happy to make arrangements for you.

What other activities are available?
The Adirondack Museum is just minutes away and a trip on The W.W. Durant right on Raquette Lake is another main attraction. Of course the famous Enchanted Forest Water Park is nearby. We also have boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and fishing. We also have a recreation room which offers billiards, darts, and other games.

How is the fishing in Raquette Lake?
The lake is stocked annually by New York State with lake trout and brook trout and has a resident population of whitefish, large mouth bass, small mouth bass, sunfish, brown bullheads and, in the spring, rainbow smelt in the feeder streams.

How many can you accommodate?
There are 10 available bedrooms in the Main Lodge and an additional three in the Kid’s Cabin. All of the rooms are furnished with a full-size bed, dresser and original wash basin. There are seven-and-a-half bathrooms throughout.

What are the other facilities like?
The main lodge includes the Great Room, which beholds a spectacular view of the mountains and lake along with plush furniture and a fireplace. Also, the Indian Room where you will find the hotel's original reception desk and mailboxes. There is a classroom for training and also the lean-to and fire at the lakeside everyone's favorite.

One must experience The Brightside to truly appreciate it.



Tucked away on Indian Point, which is only accessible by boat. In its secluded location The Brightside keeps its distance from the city way of life.

It's a short ride 2 miles, almost 10 minutes from the Town of Raquette Lake through Duck Bay to Indian Point.


Directions Distance
1: Start on NY State
Route 12 North
23.75 miles
2: Bear right, merge onto New York State 
Route 28 North at Alder Creek, towards Old Forge
48.84 miles
3: Turn left onto Sagamore Road
(County Route 2)
3.3 miles
4: Park near the Raquette Lake General Store