About
About the CAA
Established in 1922, the Central Adirondack Association (CAA) serves a region spanning seventy miles from Forestport through Old Forge to Indian Lake via Route 28 and Route 30 to Long Lake. Our service area includes three counties—Oneida, Herkimer, and Hamilton—and five townships: Forestport, Webb, Inlet, Indian Lake, and Long Lake. The CAA is dedicated to promoting the unique attractions and communities within this area, offering support to local businesses, organizing events, and providing resources for visitors and residents alike.​​​​
History and Mission
Founded in 1922, the Central Adirondack Association (CAA) traces its roots to the vision of John LeSure, Earl B. Barrett, Ben Higby, and Roy C. Higby. Recognizing the need for collaboration among business operators, they established the Central Adirondack Hotel Association to unite local interests. Their first major initiative was constructing a hard-surface road from Old Forge to Eagle Bay.
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Following the 1929 Stock Market crash, discussions emerged about forming a regional Chamber of Commerce. Business Leaders - including Dr. R.S. Lindsay Sr., R.J. Dobell, Floyd A. Puffer, Roscoe G. Norton, and Earl B. Barrett - formalized the CAA, with Agustus Low as its first president. Their guiding philosophy was that while some visitors would naturally ​be drawn to the Adirondacks, others needed an incentive. The CAA took an active role beyond promotion - stocking fish and launching fishing contests, addressing black flies and ragweed, and organizing community events like a summer carnival with parades, boat races, block dances, and even a Central Adirondack Queen competition.
The CAA Today
A century later, the CAA continues to sponsor, manage, and support year-round events, recognizing that visitors still appreciate engaging experiences. Our service area stretches from Forestport around Route 28 through Old Forge, Inlet, Raquette Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, and Indian Lake, extending along Route 30 to Long Lake. We represent three counties - Oneida, Herkimer, and Hamilton - and five townships: Forestport, Webb, Inlet, Indian Lake, and Long Lake.
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While events remain central to our mission, the CAA also plays a vital role in promoting the Central Adirondack Trail Scenic Byway (CAT Byway). This 153-mile corridor extends from Rome through Alder Creek and north along Route 8 to Blue Mountain Lake, continuing westward to Warrensburg and south to Glens Falls. By leveraging this designation, the CAA collaborates with other Byway communities to enhance regional branding, marketing, and tourism development. Our goal is to increase visitor engagement and tourism-driven economic growth - a mission that aligns seamlessly with the purpose of the CAA.
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