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The Balsam Inn

2.0 star property
Lodge near West Branch of the Sacandaga River in Caroga Lake

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Photo gallery for The Balsam Inn

Living area
Exterior
Living area
Basic Room 9
Hallway

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

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140 NY-10, Caroga Lake, NY, 12032
  • Place, West Branch of the Sacandaga River
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Canada Lake
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Oak Mountain Ski Center
    ‪30 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Basic Double or Twin Room 1

Basic Double or Twin Room 1

Basic Double or Twin Room 1

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

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Basic Room 2

Basic Room 2

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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Basic Room 3

Basic Room 3

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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Basic Room 4

Basic Room 4

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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Basic Room 5

Basic Room 5

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

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Basic Room 6

Basic Room 6

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

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Basic Room 7

Basic Room 7

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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Basic Room 8

Basic Room 8

  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Basic Room 9

Basic Room 9

Basic Room 9

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the area

Arietta

In state park.Stay at this Caroga Lake lodge and you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of West Branch of the Sacandaga River and 9 miles (15 km) of Canada Lake. Also within 9 miles (15 km) are Kane Mountain Fire Tower and Wheelerville Bike Trails Access.
View more Lodges in AriettaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • West Branch of the Sacandaga River - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Canada Lake - 7 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Piseco Lake - 14 min drive - 26.0 km
  • Oak Mountain Ski Center - 30 min drive - 50.4 km
  • Herkimer Diamond Mines - 33 min drive - 58.2 km

Restaurants

  • The Forever Wild Tavern
  • ‪Pine Lake Lodge - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Balsams Inn & Cafe - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The Lake Effect Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Lake Front Pizza - ‬6 min drive

About this property

The Balsam Inn

Lodge near West Branch of the Sacandaga River in Caroga Lake
The Balsam Inn offers its guests a picnic area, a communal living room, and a microwave in a common area. WiFi is free in public spaces. Self parking is free. A complete renovation of The Balsam Inn was completed in February 2022.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this Caroga Lake lodge.

  • 9 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1895
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • Television in lobby
  • Smoking in designated areas
  • Microwave in a common area
  • Refrigerator in a common area
The Balsam Inn offers 9 accommodations with blackout drapes/curtains. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Beds feature down comforters and premium bedding. Rooms have detached private bathrooms. Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations with hydromassage showerheads. Housekeeping is provided on request.

Similar properties

Lobby
Red Roof Inn & Suites Herkimer
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
4.4 out of 5, Excellent, 1,002 reviews
The price is CA $135
CA $146 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 10 - Mar 11
Red Roof Inn & Suites Herkimer

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Things to do

  • Archery
  • Art gallery
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Boat and paddles
  • Boat tours
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Hunting
  • Kayaking
  • Rowing/canoeing
  • Snowmobiling
  • Snowshoeing
  • TV in common areas
  • Water sports equipment

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Handrails in stairways
  • No elevator
  • Visual alarms in hallways

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Down comforter
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Detached private bathroom
  • Hydromassage showerhead
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

More

  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Mobile key entry

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and lockbox information; your host will greet you
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Guests can choose to either self-clean the property prior to check-out, or pay an additional cleaning fee of USD 15 at check-out
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you, lockbox

Pets

  • Pets: USD 1000 per pet (varies based on length of stay), plus a one-time cleaning fee of USD 100 and a deposit of USD 1000 per day
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Weight limit: 5 lbs per pet
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • A damage deposit of USD 50 will be collected before check-in.

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Pet deposit: USD 1000 per day
  • Pet fee: USD 1000 per pet (varies based on length of stay) plus USD 100 one-time cleaning fee
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Firewood fee: USD 15 per day

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property only accepts cash
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property only accepts cash. Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements to bring your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation (please see the Fees section for related charges).

Property is also known as

The Balsam Inn Lodge
The Balsam Inn Caroga Lake
The Balsam Inn Lodge Caroga Lake

Frequently asked questions

Does The Balsam Inn have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at The Balsam Inn.

How much does it cost to stay at The Balsam Inn?

As of Mar 6, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Balsam Inn on Mar 16, 2026 start from CA $162, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does The Balsam Inn offer free breakfast?

The Balsam Inn does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The Balsam Inn?

No, there is no casino at this lodge.

What time is check-in at The Balsam Inn?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM.

Is there free parking at The Balsam Inn?

This lodge offers free self parking.

Does The Balsam Inn have a pool?

The Balsam Inn does not have a pool.

Does The Balsam Inn have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this lodge.

How close is The Balsam Inn to downtown Caroga Lake?

The Balsam Inn is 0.2 mi away from Arietta.

The Balsam Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 48 out of 57 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 57 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 57 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 57 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 57 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We love this place and the owner Jenn! We are coming back, hopefully soon! We had fun in the tavern down stairs and slept like babies all weekend in our room. This place is one of a kind! We’ve stayed at dozens of places throughout the Adirondacks and this one is by far, our favorite!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing location to see the Fall foliage and do many outdoors activities! Cozy, clean and comfy room, with streaming TV for downtime. I even had the adjustable memory foam bed in my cabin like little room. Jennifer was a wonderful host and called me on my drive in to check in with me. Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Immaculately clean property with very comfortable bed. Owner was helpful and easy to communicate with!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A smiley day!

We found our stay to be warm and friendly, it was like staying with your family.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence, Atlanta

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Balsam Inn is a gem perfectly situated in the Adirondack Park. Super clean and quiet, with a great bar and good food!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My son and I stayed here because we were driving from Pittsburgh to University of Vermont to move him in to college. This place was right in the route. Jenny greeted us and showed us around. My son wanted to fish in the nearby lakes, so we did fished, and then went to a nearby pub for dinner. Jenny had called the pub for us to make sure they were open. Each room of the Inn is unique and feels so luxurious. All the linens, pillows, towels are just top notch. My son wants to stop here every trip to college.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Duncan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Charles

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Douglas

Travelled with family
Liked: Staff & service
It was definitely different. You have to share a bathroom with other inn guests. We were the only ones who were at the Inn for our 1 night. So it wasn't an issue but guess I got to read the fine print better. And there was no A/C. You could open the window, but there was no screen to let the cool air in. So we just opened the window & gambled that we wouldn't let in the bugs along with the cooler air. It wasn't that hot of a day, but I can only imagine that place on a typical warm summer day/evening. On the positive, the host was nice, the wifi worked and, outside of the A/C, the room was nice. Given the stellar reviews and the price we paid (it was over $150 for a Monday night), I guess I was expecting something a bit nicer.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ben

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Warm and excellent stay

The hosts were both pleasant and welcoming. We were met with an explanation and a quick tour of the Inn. Jenny provided recommendations for a local restaurant nearby, and it was great.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Guillermo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The owner is simply amazing such a sweetheart her energy and charisma are the greatest treat to stay in the hotel she did everything possible to keep me comfortable and she was available for anything that I could need I was there to be part of a race in the area she made sure to help me with anything that I needed .. the place is neat and clean and well taken care of. The restaurant in the first floor is very cute and the food is really good too I ended up having a salad she made herself and it was delicious
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keith

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Home away from home!

Great discovery.. extremely friendly and hospitable. Felt like home away from home! Hope to come back during snowmobile season!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Reed

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Authentic, warm, and friendly.

What a great stay. My travel was disrupted, and Jenny was kind, understanding, and communicative. The Inn is cute and authentic. The location is stunning. I only regret being able to stay just one night (cancelled flight), it was a warm and I felt welcomed.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Dennis

Liked: Cleanliness
Jenny is very friendly person
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hospitality of the staff especially Ginny the owner of this fine establishment was very helpful and were great to chat with regarding the region of the Adirondacks. Let me not forget to mention the rooms are cozy, impeccable and lovely decorated by Ginny who is true artist. I do plan on visiting this area of the Adirondacks again and the Balsams will be base camp when exploring this beautiful area.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ken

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra

Travelled with partner
Liked: Amenities
Rustic meets adorable! So warm and comfortable. The beds (we had twins) were to die for. Great.having the bar below. Nice selection of beverages, great continental breakfast. Jenny and staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Shared bath not a problem. Wonderful place!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Jenny and crew are awesome and have a sincere dedication to making guests happy. Cozy, rustic, bar downstairs with great wings and beer selection. Note: shared bathroom but I had no issues.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Dan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Danielle

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Will definitely start again. Everyone was very friendly, welcome and accommodating. Parking is easy, the rooms and bathrooms are clean and cozy, we had excellent drinks and pie downstairs in the bar/restaurant, and free breakfast (milk juice, coffee, muffins, breakfast bars, fruit and cereal) in the morning.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

James

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregory

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Property owner was very hospitable. Clean property. Nice friendly staff. Good food.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Glen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Hidden Gem

Incredible place to stay. It is an older building, that is what makes it so unique. Each and every room is a little different. We were welcomed and made to feel truly at home. Great food and ambiance. I will definitely recommend to our friends and family if the are traveling
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Glen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Hidden Gem

Incredible place to stay. It is an older building, that is what makes it so unique. Each and every room is a little different. We were welcomed and made to feel truly at home. Great food and ambiance. I will definitely recommend to our friends and family if the are traveling
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024