Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Moose River Plains
Moose River Plains, near Inlet, New York, is a fantastic spot for those seeking a free camping experience in the heart of the Adirondacks. With a variety of sites that offer both privacy and proximity to nature, it’s a great place to unwind and soak in the beauty of the wild.
This area features well-spaced sites, each equipped with a fire ring and a pit house, making it easy to enjoy a campfire under the stars. Visitors have noted the unique vibes of the woods, with one camper mentioning, “these woods definitely have a strange energy about them.” The road leading in can be a bit rough, so take it slow, especially if you're in a smaller vehicle, but it’s manageable for most.
For those looking to explore, there are numerous trails nearby, although some campers have pointed out that the trailheads might not have parking. Keep an eye out for the stunning wildlife, including impressive ravens soaring overhead. As one reviewer said, “The forest is vast and inviting,” making it a perfect backdrop for hiking and nature walks.
While amenities are minimal—no drinking water or showers—this remote location offers a true escape into nature. Campers appreciate the solitude and the chance to connect with the outdoors, making Moose River Plains a solid choice for anyone looking to get away from it all.
Description
New York Department of Environmental Conservation
The 79,487-acre Moose River Plains Complex is part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve and includes the 64,322-acre Moose River Plains Wild Forest, the 2,907-acre Moose River Plains Camping Corridor and the 12,258-acre Little Moose Wilderness.
The Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road (a.k.a. the Moose River Plains Road) is a seasonal access road which extends 23 miles through the Moose River Plains from the Limekiln Gate in the west (near the community of Inlet) to the Wakely Dam Gate at the end of the Cedar River Road in the east (near the community of Indian Lake). The road serves as the main access to the lands and waters of this Complex and the intensive use Camping Corridor. The road is a primary snowmobile route in winter.
View of a waterbody and some trees The area contains low‐lying river valleys, hills and low mountains and a couple of 3,500-foot high mountain summits - Little Moose Mountain and Manbury Mountain in the Little Moose Wilderness. The lands are a transitional zone between the high mountain country to the east and north and the foothills to the west and south.
More than 65 ponds and lakes border or are located within the unit, totaling approximately 3,500 acres. About 100 miles of brooks, streams and rivers drain into three major watersheds - the Raquette River, the Hudson River and the South Branch Moose River. Sections of the South Branch Moose River, Otter Brook, Red River and Cedar River are designated scenic rivers.
The area features more than 100 primitive roadside campsites, miles of marked trails and numerous lakes and ponds. The Moose River Plains are an ideal destination for visitors with varied interests and abilities.
Backcountry Information for the West Central Adirondacks provides general information regarding backcountry and seasonal conditions; specific notices regarding closures and conditions of trails, roads, bridges and other infrastructure; and links to weather, state land use regulations, low impact recreation and more.
All designated primitive tents sites, campsites and lean-tos are available on a first come - first served basis and cannot be reserved. Designated campsites are marked with a yellow "Camp Here" disc. Designated tent sites are for tents only. Tents or small campers can use designated campsites. There are no hook-ups for water or electricity at campsites.
Campers who desire more amenities may camp at the nearby Eighth Lake Campground, Brown Tract Pond Campground or Limekiln Lake Campground and take day trips into the Moose River Plains Complex.
Camping is a very popular activity in the Moose River Plains Complex.
There are 116 primitive roadside campsites located along the Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road, Otter Brook Road, Rock Dam Road and short spur roads off of them. Roadside campsites are numbered and most have a picnic table, fireplace and privy.
Eight of the roadside campsites are accessible with accessible designed picnic tables, fireplaces and privies. Campers without disabilities are encouraged to use other campsites to ensure the accessible campsites are available to people who require them.
Numerous designated interior primitive tent sites are located in the Moose River Plains, most of them on the shores of various water bodies. The location of these campsites can be identified by the presence of a yellow "Camp Here" disc. Most these campsites are accessed via hiking trails and have only a fire ring and a pit privy.
At-large backcountry camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping, including at designated sites, for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.
Location
Moose River Plains is located in New York
Coordinates
43.7423138 N
74.68123618 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Moose River Plains needs a permit.
