Several trails can be accessed from the shore of the ponds including Treadway Mountain, which is a wonderful hike with outstanding views.

Getting there

From the intersection of Route 9 and Route 74 near Schroon Lake follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Continue to Putts Pond Road on the right (entrance road for Putnam Pond State Campground). Drive this to the end to access the campground and the pond. A day use fee will be required.   

Paddling

These two ponds are connected by a set of narrows. The best launch is located near the beach which is just over a small hill from the main parking area in the campground and there is a motorboat launch which can be used.

• Pond sizes – Approximate Shoreline Length: Putnam Pond: 3.75 miles; North Pond: 2.5 miles
• Type of launch: Sand and grass
• Portage/Carry Details: Less than 100 feet, no portage to North Pond
• Type of water: Both ponds are well sheltered and calm

Boating

Putnam Pond is accessible to motorboats. There is a narrow hard ramp located in the DEC campground.

Fishing and ice fishing

Fish for northern pike, largemouth bass, black crappie, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed and yellow perch on this tranquil pond. Popular with ice anglers. The northern section is at its best for fishing in the winter and early spring.

Eagle Lake is a beautiful spot that sits right alongside Route 74 between Ticonderoga and Schroon Lake. Visitors can boat, paddle, fish, and even camp at this scenic spot. It is approximately 420-acres and has a mean depth of 19 feet. At the farthest east end of the lake away from the boat launch, there is a nice sandy beach and campsite.

Getting there

From the intersection of Route 74 and Route 9 in Schroon Lake follow Route 74 east toward Ticonderoga. Follow this for 8.5 miles and there is a launch on the left. It should be noted for motorized boats that to access the main part of the lake, you will need to pass through a culvert under Route 74. This can be very swallow depending on conditions and there are rocks to navigate around to not damage propellers. 

There is parking at the launch for about six cars. Trailers can be kept a short ways down the road at roadside pull-offs; the launch area is not very big and can be tricky to maneuver a trailer through.

Fishing

Eagle Lake has easy access and is known for brown trout! It is stocked by the Essex County Fish Hatchery.

Species: smallmouth bass, northern pike, brown bullhead, pickerel, pumpkinseed, brown trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, and lake whitefish.

Shoreline fishing: there is a decent amount of shoreline fishing on this lake. The long shores near the launch area, on the eastern end near the campsite, and from near the bridge on Route 74 are all great spots. Much of the remaining shore is private property. Fish for bass at the launch area near the lily pads. Panfish and perch can be caught just about anywhere from shore. 

Boat fishing: the best boat fishing is in the main body of water and around the islands or in the bays especially if you are search of bass. Trolling is the best method for northern pike and the northern shore is the spot. Cast a night crawler into the shallows if you wish to have a good time with perch, and some of the perch are quite substantial in size. 

Special regulations: Always Follow State fishing regulations and be sure to pick up a NYS Freshwater Fishing Guide at your local outfitters or regional NYSDEC office.  Also please refer to the state regulations and preventative measures in regards to Aquatic Invasive Species, boat wash facilities, and the new state law of “Clean, Drain, and Dry.” 

Paddling

You will launch into the western portion of the lake which is a very attractive section to explore. The lily pads and aquatic wildflowers are amazing. You can access the eastern portion of the lake by paddling under Route 74. Loons are very common on this lake. There are a few islands on the lake, but unfortunately they are all private as well as much of the shoreline. The far end of the lake will access you to an attractive wetland and a lean-to if you so choose to use. The lake is well sheltered, calm, and typically just used by small motorboats.