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Best Dispersed Camping near Adirondack, NY

37 Reviews

The Adirondack region has some good dispersed camping options for those who want to get away from developed campgrounds. You can find primitive sites in Adirondack City Park Campground, but you'll need to bring everything you need since there aren't any facilities. The state park in the Adirondack area also allows backcountry camping if you follow Leave No Trace practices. When camping on public lands here, remember to set up camp away from roads and water sources. You can stay up to 14 days in most spots before needing to move on. Many of the best dispersed sites require vehicles with good clearance to reach, particularly in spring when roads get muddy. Since these are primitive sites, plan to pack out all your trash, and pay close attention to current fire rules, which are strictly enforced. The Adirondack Recreation Area has some remote camping with great views, but the weather can change quickly, so come prepared. Following the rules helps keep these wild camping areas available for everyone.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Adirondack, New York (30)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Adirondack, NY

31 Photos of 30 Adirondack Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Adirondack, NY

37 Reviews of 30 Adirondack Campgrounds

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience.  The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2023

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NFR 207 Meadows, with great views!

    In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. 

    Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles.
    Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT.
    2 bars USCellular LTE.

  • Josie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

    Private Campsite

    Decent site right off of the “main” road. “Main” because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss. We only saw sites 3 and 6 marked and took #6. There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night. Site was big enough to pull our mid-size SUV down and unfold rooftop-tent, but we did have to back out in the morning; not enough room to turn around. Felt private despite the road.

  • Taylor A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

    Adirondack Camping Trip

    Highly Reccomend! The directions in the app are accurate -but do keep in mind that the campsite is down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren’t paying close attention. There is no service at all.

    This site is campsite 6 and very private (I believe there must be others located close by). The site has it’s own private road. A car is not reccomended. Possible to turn around but you definitley need a smaller suv. There is a firepit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc. You can hear cars from the site but the cars can’t see you-loved this! The sound of the cars from the main highway is something I got used to quick. The site is mostly shaded-the sun shines through a bit but not much.

    There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night. The bugs were terrible.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites

    Nice setting, simple fire pit only sites

    There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area. Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find. There are posted signs on the opposite bank so we stayed on our side. Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area.

  • Chris D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    Great little spot right off RT-100

    I was looking for the Austin Brook campsite north of this one, but someone on here gave directions to this site, which turns out has its own page on here. Right off the road, a small handful of camp sites, some picnic tables, presumably some fire rings although with snow coverage I didn’t see any. Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups. Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn’t plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended.

  • Joann&WellsThePup I.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NF-71

    About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that’s about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11

    Beautiful View Real VT setting but can be a little crowded

    It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit. 

    It is old Vermont farm land that the team of the US National Forest must manage. They have kept the clearing clear and access is pretty good. We are so lucky to have access like this for all of us to enjoy.

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 26, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site

    Busy and small sites

    Every time I've driven up Bingo to find a spot I end up leaving the area and going somewhere else.  The sites are small and close to the road.  Being primitive sites there are no facilities.  You will find fire rings at each site though.

Guide to Adirondack

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Adirondack, New York, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of sites that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a more rustic experience.

Dispersed campers should check out Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

  • Located in a serene setting, Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides easy access via a short dirt road, making it a convenient choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • The site features a fire ring and proximity to a river, allowing campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of water while relaxing by the campfire.
  • With plenty of space for tents and a sense of privacy despite nearby roads, this spot is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Adirondack, New York

  • When visiting Crane Mountain Pond Campsite, be prepared for a short hike to reach stunning views and a picturesque sunset that will make your camping experience unforgettable.
  • Remember to pack all necessary supplies, as Vanderwacker Mountain Wild Forest does not offer amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, ensuring a true back-to-nature experience.
  • Keep an eye out for hidden access roads, as some sites like Gooley Club Road can be tricky to find if you're not paying close attention.

Top activities while free camping near Adirondack

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails around Ward Brook Campsite, which offers a great lean-to and fire pit for evening gatherings.
  • Fishing and swimming are popular activities near Crane Pond Dispersed Site, where you can enjoy the natural beauty while cooling off in the water.
  • For those who love stargazing, the remote locations like Lake Durant off Old Route 28 provide minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot to marvel at the night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for free camping in the Adirondack Forest Preserve?

In the Adirondack Forest Preserve, dispersed camping is generally allowed on state land with specific regulations. You must camp at least 150 feet from any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, or other water source. Camping is limited to 3 nights in one spot. Groups larger than 10 people or staying longer than 3 nights require a permit from the Forest Ranger. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, there's sometimes confusion about where day-use areas end and overnight camping is permitted, so look for established fire rings to identify proper dispersed sites. All trash must be packed out, and campfires should be kept small using only dead and down wood. Human waste must be buried 6-8 inches deep at least 150 feet from water sources. Always check for seasonal fire restrictions.

Where are the best areas for dispersed camping in the Adirondacks?

The Adirondacks offer numerous excellent dispersed camping options. Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides private sites along a river, accessible via a short dirt road with marked sites (#3 and #6). The sound of the nearby river creates a peaceful atmosphere. Little Green Pond features 12 designated camping spots around a pond with swimming access, though some require navigating bumpy access roads that can be muddy after rain. Other excellent areas include Vanderwacker Mountain Wild Forest for drive-in access and Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest for those seeking more remote hike-in sites. Look for established fire rings which typically indicate designated dispersed sites. Most areas require camping at least 150 feet from water sources, roads, and trails.

What's the difference between car camping and boondocking in the Adirondacks?

Car camping in the Adirondacks typically refers to camping at designated primitive sites where you can park your vehicle directly at or very near your campsite. Route 100 Dispersed Camping exemplifies this with sites right off the road, some with picnic tables, allowing you to easily access your vehicle throughout your stay. Boondocking, on the other hand, refers to more remote dispersed camping without hookups or amenities, often in less developed areas. At North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, accessibility requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles due to rough roads, typifying the more adventurous boondocking experience. The key differences are accessibility (car camping sites are easier to reach), amenities (car camping sometimes offers basic facilities), and remoteness (boondocking tends to offer more solitude but requires greater self-sufficiency).

Is primitive camping allowed year-round in the Adirondacks?

Yes, primitive camping is generally allowed year-round in the Adirondacks, but with important seasonal considerations. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, campers can access sites along the river throughout the year, with some being drive-in and others walk-in. However, seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility. Spring brings mud season, which can make many forest roads impassable, as noted at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 where campers recommend having a backup plan during this time. Winter camping requires additional preparation for snow and cold temperatures. Some high-elevation areas may have seasonal road closures. Always check current conditions with the DEC or local ranger stations before heading out, particularly for remote areas where weather can change rapidly.

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