Primitive campsites near Alplaus, New York offer varied access options ranging from short bike trails to boat-in islands. The region includes both free forest sites and established campgrounds with modest amenities. Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency with limited to no services in the immediate vicinity.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: The Murphy Lake Leanto area provides technical trail challenges for mountain bikers. A visitor reported, "The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls. The area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest." The trails pass by multiple lakes through rocky, rooted terrain and pine tree barrens.
Island camping on Lake George: Long Island Group — Lake George Islands offers boat-in camping experiences approximately 40 miles north of Alplaus. A camper shared, "Worth a trip from just about anywhere. Absolutely beautiful and you can't beat camping on an island." Sites require boat access and provide unique waterfront perspectives not available at mainland campgrounds.
Swimming and water activities: Lake George provides excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. According to one visitor to Long Island, "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip." Many sites include water access points for swimming or launching small watercraft.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Many campers appreciate the isolation at Duck Pond Campsite, located about 30 miles southwest of Alplaus. A recent visitor noted, "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived at surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
Family-oriented campgrounds: Stony Creek Family Campground caters specifically to families looking for a more structured camping experience. "It's a nice family ran campground. We love it here and plan to come back!" one camper reported. This established campground provides amenities not found at dispersed sites, including electric hookups and shower facilities.
Cost-free options: Several dispersed camping areas charge no fees. At Murphy Lake Leanto, campers can stay for free while enjoying basic shelter structures. "Once at the large Leanto, you will find a fire pit and ample room for many tents if needed, plus a lake full of water, and a forest full of wood," noted one visitor who appreciated the no-cost camping option.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. At Duck Pond Campsite, one camper warned, "Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions." Another camper specifically mentioned difficult terrain: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and other wildlife are common at many campsites. At Seth Warner Shelter, campers are advised, "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons." Similarly, Long Island campsites have reported wildlife issues with one visitor noting, "We were literally bombarded with a group of raccoons each night. It was bad."
Cell service limitations: Communications can be challenging at remote tent sites. One Duck Pond visitor reported, "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads." Most primitive camping areas have unreliable or non-existent phone service, requiring advance planning for emergency situations.
Tips for camping with families
Platform options for easier setup: Some areas provide stable platforms for tent placement. At Long Island Group campsites, platforms can accommodate one tent per site. A visitor noted, "There were no leveled space whatsoever (except for one platform per site...but where would a second tent go? On the horrible ground beside it)." Families should plan accordingly if bringing multiple tents.
Shelter alternatives: Ushers Road State Forest offers established campsites with stone fire rings where families can set up without extensive hiking. A camper reported finding "a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use."
Toilet facilities: Restroom quality varies dramatically between established and primitive sites. At Long Island campsites, one visitor warned, "The wooden porta pottys or whatever you call them were grotesque." Families should pack portable toilet solutions when visiting more remote areas without facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most primitive tent sites near Alplaus cannot accommodate recreational vehicles due to access limitations and site size. Duck Pond Campsite specifically warns about vehicle access, with one reviewer stating, "The years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it." RVs should stick to established campgrounds with designated RV parking.
