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Best Dispersed Camping near Blue Mountain Lake, NY

24 Reviews

The Adirondack region surrounding Blue Mountain Lake, New York features predominantly dispersed camping options across multiple lakes and reservoirs. Stillwater Reservoir stands out with its highly-rated primitive sites, many accessible only by boat, while Seventh Lake Primitive Camping offers tent-only sites with both drive-in and hike-in access. Other notable areas include North Lake Reservoir Campground, Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, and several unmarked pull-offs along forest roads. Most sites in this region maintain a rustic character with minimal amenities, reflecting the wilderness-focused camping experience typical of the Adirondack Park.

Many dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation systems in place. As one camper at Stillwater Reservoir noted, "Camping is free here but it is first come first serve, but with 40+ sites you can almost always get something." Road conditions vary significantly, with several areas requiring high-clearance vehicles or 4WD. Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region, with multiple reviewers mentioning complete disconnection as a feature rather than inconvenience. Summer brings warmer temperatures and increased insect activity, while fall offers cooler conditions and fewer bugs. Water access is a common consideration, as one visitor advised: "You will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake, so don't forget your water filter."

Waterfront access represents a defining characteristic of camping in this area, with island camping particularly popular. At Cranberry Lake, visitors report "sunsets from the island were truly incredible" with sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings. Stillwater Reservoir receives consistent praise for its island sites with "large sandy beachfronts" and opportunities for paddling, swimming, and fishing. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles and loons. Many sites require boats to access, creating natural privacy buffers. A Stillwater visitor explained, "We kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to ourselves." Visitors consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views as primary draws, with the trade-off being minimal facilities and the need for self-sufficiency.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Blue Mountain Lake, New York (24)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Blue Mountain Lake, NY

29 Photos of 24 Blue Mountain Lake Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Blue Mountain Lake, NY

24 Reviews of 24 Blue Mountain Lake Campgrounds

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2018

    Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    Your Own Private Island for FREE!

    We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Ours had an extensive pile of dry wood, too. There is a decent privy tucked back in the woods. Bring your own TP though! Also, you will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake, so don’t forget your water filter.

    In addition to many cool places to kayak from the island, there are a few hiking trails where you can land your boat and hike for a few hours. The Curtis Pond hike was our favorite and there are some incredible beaver dams along the way. While the mosquitoes weren’t bad at the campsite itself or while kayaking, they are terrible on the trails this time of year; so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts! The millions upon millions of dragonflies help make up for the mosquitoes!

    The Village of Cranberry Lake (which is accessible from the lake) has some supplies, but not much except the very basics at the general store.  You’ll need to head to Star Lake or Tupper Lake for anything of significance.

    Backcountry camping is first come, first served…no reservations necessary or even possible. No permit is needed. The only fee is if you want to park your vehicle in the state park while you are camping on the island, it is $8 per day.

  • 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.

  • Geoff W.
    Aug. 16, 2017

    Stillwater Reservoir

    Another great trip

    This was my 3rd trip to Stillwater in 3 yrs and it gets better each time!

    Our first trip was an overnight to test some backpacking gear, it was September and the weather was perfect! We hiked into our site, not easy because almost everything is meant to be accessed by boat so we were guessing our course! Cooler weather meant no bugs to contend with

    Next year we took a canoe to our site, it was July, warm weather, warm water and the bugs were not terrible, we were at Site 1, secluded in a cove, not a lot of traffic but there is a hiking trailhead near the site so there is potential for visitors.

    Our latest trip was to site 10, an island site with a large sandy beachfront, we borrowed a motor boat to get there this year and brought plenty of gear for 4 days. Weather was great again, some rain each day but we had time to get setup and get shelters to keep dry.

    Camping if free here but it is first come first serve but with 40+ sites you can almost always get something. There is a small store at the boat launch to get provisions if you need, public restrooms and wifi. Very limited cell service.

    You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir. I believe all the site have privy boxes on them.

    There are opportunities for fishing, a few local attractions, a nice restaurant at the launch.

  • 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.

  • Ashlee C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2024

    North Lake Reservoir Campground

    Beautiful spot!

    Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent. Fire pit at the site and a bathroom across the way from the first site.

  • J B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2023

    North Lake Reservoir Campground

    Pristine lake

    32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean. Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around.

  • Nicole T.
    May. 13, 2025

    Crane Pond Dispersed Site

    4WD Required But Worth It

    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. From experience - if your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground. Not fit for an RV in any capacity. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles. There is an outhouse near that lot and a foot bridge off to the right, leading to Pharaoh Mtn Trail. 

    If you're staying to camp there are (9) sites only accessible by boat (I haven't found a map that numbers/letters them), except the one right by the parking lot. There is a trail leading to that one. My family and I have never used the other sites so I can only attest to the one which is freaking GREAT. 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. Stone fireplace on site. The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well).

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    Site 4

    Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site. Occasionally you will get the yahoo that speeds by and makes a dust cloud but otherwise it’s great. There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly,

  • Elizabeth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2020

    Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping on stillwater reservoir

    Primitive site on the beautiful south eastern end of Stillwater. A short hike in to a great beach for swimming or paddling.

    We’ve stayed here many times in tents and hammock tents. The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear.

    Because you can’t make a reservation here sometimes there’s competition for a spot. There is a good fire circle with space all around. The trail down to the beach is only about a hundred feet, but it is downhill.

    This site is close to the trailhead for the Stillwater firetower, an original Adirondack firetower.

Guide to Blue Mountain Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Blue Mountain Lake, New York, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers unique spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Blue Mountain Lake, New York

  • When camping at Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve, be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no drinking water or electric hookups available.
  • Bring your own firewood and trash bags, as facilities like trash disposal and firewood are not provided at Stillwater Reservoir.
  • Make sure to pack enough food and supplies, since there are no markets nearby, especially when staying at Seventh Lake Primitive Camping.

Top activities while free camping near Blue Mountain Lake

  • Kayaking is a popular activity at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, where you can explore the beautiful waters and enjoy stunning sunsets from your campsite.
  • Hiking trails abound near Ward Brook Campsite, offering opportunities to discover the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to various lakes and rivers, particularly around Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, where you can cast a line in a peaceful setting.

Dispersed campers should check out Forked Lake for its unique features

  • Forked Lake offers a picturesque setting with the option to camp right by the water, making it a favorite among those who enjoy scenic views and tranquility.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure at Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve.
  • With no permits required for camping, it’s an ideal spot for spontaneous trips, especially for those looking to unwind in nature without the hassle of reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping at Blue Mountain Lake?

Free dispersed camping is available in several areas near Blue Mountain Lake. North Lake Reservoir Campground offers 32 sites situated around the lake, including some walk-in spots directly on the waterfront. The area is quiet and accessible, but remember to turn left at the start of the lake to avoid private roads. Another option is Gooley Club Road, which provides drive-in access for dispersed camping. Look for designated sites with established fire rings, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed sites in the region are first-come, first-served, so arriving early during peak season is recommended.

Are there any seasonal restrictions for dispersed camping at Blue Mountain Lake?

Dispersed camping around Blue Mountain Lake typically has seasonal limitations based on weather and road conditions. Crane Pond Dispersed Site road access becomes particularly challenging during wet periods, often requiring 4WD vehicles. Many roads in the region become impassable during winter and spring mud season (March-May). Stillwater Reservoir is most accessible from late May through October, with September offering ideal weather conditions. Always check with the local ranger district before planning a trip outside summer months, as some forest roads may close seasonally due to conditions. Fire restrictions may also apply during dry periods in late summer.

What amenities are available at Blue Mountain Lake dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping at Blue Mountain Lake offers basic amenities typical of primitive camping. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites features sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and some have privies tucked away in the woods. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, you'll find fire rings and river access down a short bank. Most dispersed sites in the area have established fire pits, but don't expect electricity, running water, or garbage service. Pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent, so plan accordingly with offline maps and emergency supplies.

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