Dispersed camping opportunities exist on state forest lands surrounding Bakers Mills, New York within the southern Adirondack region. This area sits at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet and experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with winter lows often below 0°F and summer highs reaching the 80s. Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency as they're situated on undeveloped forest land with varying access conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Crane Pond Dispersed Site, visitors can enjoy fishing and swimming from a natural stone ledge. "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12(?) feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe," notes Nicole T., who also mentions hearing and seeing loons on the water.
River exploration: Free camping near Bakers Mills offers opportunities to enjoy riverside settings. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, Taylor A. describes "a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night." Access requires navigating down "a semi-steep bank," according to Josie W., but rewards campers with "beautiful [sounds] to listen to at night."
Wildlife viewing: Powley Road sites in Ferris Wild Forest provide prime locations for nature observation. "Site 4 is magical... the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site," reports The L., noting the natural setting despite occasional passing vehicles.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites near Bakers Mills. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, Josie W. notes it's a "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." Taylor A. adds the site is "very private" with "plenty of space for multiple tents."
Natural features: The combination of water features and forest settings attracts campers to this region. One reviewer at Crane Pond Dispersed Site appreciates the stone areas by the water that allow for sunbathing and fishing, plus the scenic backdrop that provides "beautiful" views.
Hammock-friendly terrain: Multiple sites offer good tree spacing for hammock campers. At Cod Pond, Taylor A. notes "Plenty of trees for hammocks etc." This feature is particularly valuable for those seeking alternatives to ground sleeping, especially given the reviewer's observation that the "ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas near Bakers Mills demand appropriate vehicles. For Crane Pond Dispersed Site, Nicole T. warns: "Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy. 4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck... if your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks."
Navigation challenges: Finding these free camping spots requires careful attention. Several sites are "well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention," according to Taylor A. Josie W. confirms this at Cod Pond: "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."
No connectivity: Cell service is nonexistent throughout most dispersed camping areas. The L. reports "zero Verizon cell service in the whole area" at Powley Road, while Meghan B. confirms "No AT&T cell service in this area." Taylor A. simply states "There is no service at all" at Cod Pond, emphasizing the need to plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose designated sites with some facilities when camping with children. Meghan B. notes that at Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, "Some of the sites even have an outhouse," making them more suitable for families needing basic facilities.
Insect preparation: The region has significant insect activity, particularly in warmer months. Taylor A. warns about Cod Pond: "The bugs were terrible." Families should bring appropriate repellents, netting, and protective clothing.
Vehicle positioning: At tighter sites, plan your parking strategy in advance. Josie W. notes about Cod Pond: "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The dispersed sites near Bakers Mills are generally unsuitable for larger recreational vehicles. Nicole T. specifically warns about Crane Pond Road being "Not fit for an RV in any capacity" due to the rough terrain and tight spaces.
Site numbering awareness: When camping in designated dispersed areas, observe site markers carefully. At Powley Road, Meghan B. advises visitors "Must camp at a numbered site" noting that while "Most sites are right along the road," some locations are set further back in the woods.
Seasonal considerations: RV access becomes more challenging during hunting season and after adverse weather. Meghan B. observed at Powley Road in October that "when I left early the next morning, I passed a lot of hunters that had camped along the road," indicating increased competition for sites during this period.
