Durant Days 2025: Celebrating Adirondack Heritage and the Legacy of William West Durant
Great Camp Sagamore built by William West Durant.
One of the most iconic symbols of the Adirondack Mountains is the Adirondack Great Camp—those grand rustic estates built as luxurious retreats for America's wealthiest families during the Gilded Age.
The man most closely associated with this architectural legacy is William West Durant, the visionary designer who brought the Great Camp concept to life. Imagine stepping back in time and experiencing the grandeur of these estates, a unique opportunity that Durant Days 2025 offers.
Each summer, the Central Adirondacks host Durant Days Weekend. This immersive celebration honors Durant’s legacy and showcases the beauty, culture, and history of Raquette Lake, where many of these legendary Great Camps still stand.
What is Durant Days?
William West Durant at Camp Pine Knot.
Durant Days 2025, held the first weekend of August, is a beloved annual event blending history, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly cultural activities. It draws both locals and visitors eager to experience the magic of the Adirondacks and pay tribute to one of its most influential figures. From historical boat cruises to art fairs, live music, and a boat parade, there's something for everyone at Durant Days.
The Legacy of William West Durant
Born in 1850, William West Durant was a pioneer of the Adirondack Great Camp style—an architectural movement that fused natural materials with elegant design. His creations featured native logs, stonework, broad porches, and fireplaces, all thoughtfully integrated into the surrounding wilderness.
Durant's most famous camps include:
Camp Pine Knot – Considered the first Great Camp, owned by Collis P. Huntington, one of the “Big Four” businessmen who built the first transcontinental railroad.
Great Camp Sagamore – Owned by the Vanderbilt family for 50 years, now open to the public for tours and programs.
Camp Uncas – Once owned by J.P. Morgan, legendary American financier and investment banker.
These sprawling, multi-structure estates defined rustic luxury and helped put the Adirondacks on the map as a high-end outdoor escape.
Camp Uncas, J.P. Morgan’s camp.
Durant Days 2025: Key Events & Activities
Friday, August 1
St. William’s Church at Long Point, built by William W. Durant
Step back in time aboard the W.W. Durant, a charming replica of a 19th-century steamboat operated by the Raquette Lake Navigation Company.
This special historical cruise will spotlight Durant’s architectural influence and make two significant stops:
St. William’s on Long Point, a lakeside church Durant built in 1890 (accessible only by boat).
Camp Pine Knot, where select guests will enjoy a rare guided tour of this historic property.
Note: We highly recommend you make advanced reservations for the cruise. Visit Raquette Lake Navigation Company for cruise details and tickets.
Cruise Raquette Lake.
Saturday, August 2
Celebrate summer Adirondack-style with a full day of community events in Raquette Lake.
Local Art & Craft Fairs – Browse handmade items and meet talented regional artisans.
Live Music – Enjoy performances by local musicians throughout the day.
Raquette Lake Boat Parade – Decorate your boat and join the fun, or watch the colorful procession from the shore.
Fireworks Over Raquette Lake – Cap the night with a dazzling display reflected over the water.
Sunday, August 3
History and heritage take center stage on Sunday:
Guided Tours at Great Camp Sagamore – Built by Durant in 1897 and once the summer home of the Vanderbilts, Sagamore remains one of the most awe-inspiring Great Camps open to the public. Tours are also available on Saturday.
Vespers Service on St. Hubert’s Isle – Attend the annual lakeside service at the Church of the Good Shepherd, constructed by Durant in 1880. Free boat transportation departs from the Village Dock at 2 p.m., courtesy of Burke’s Marina. The service will be led by The Reverend Nancy Rosenblum, followed by complimentary refreshments.
Explore Raquette Lake by water.
Durant Days also invites you to explore the tranquil waters of Raquette Lake, the largest natural lake in the Adirondack Park. Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle past hidden coves, wildlife-rich shorelines, and the silhouettes of historic Great Camps tucked among the trees.
Raquette Lake in the Central Adirondacks.
It's an unforgettable way to connect with the Adirondack wilderness and appreciate the serenity that inspired the likes of Durant himself.
Plan your visit.
Durant Days Weekend offers something for everyone—history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, families, and art lovers alike. With its scenic beauty, rich cultural programming, and welcoming community, it's a top summer event in the Adirondacks.
Mark your calendar: August 1–3, 2025. We can't wait to see you there!
For updated schedules, lodging options, and transportation info, visit the official Town of Long Lake website. Long Lake is easily accessible by car and offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to lakeside cabins.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Raquette Lake.
Top four reasons to attend Durant Days 2025.
Whether you're passionate about Adirondack history or simply seeking a unique summer getaway, Durant Days offers:
Historical insights into one of America's most captivating architectural legacies.
Hands-on experiences aboard historic boats and inside legendary Great Camps.
Family fun with parades, fireworks, and crafts.
Stunning scenery in the heart of New York State’s wilderness.
Durant Days 2025 is more than an event—it’s a living tribute to the spirit of the Adirondacks and the creative genius of William West Durant. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable summer tradition.
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Upcoming events in the area.
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