Dispersed camping around Bolton Landing, New York offers primitive wilderness experiences in the Adirondack region. Sites are primarily located within Lake George Wild Forest and Pharaoh Lake Wilderness areas with elevations ranging from 350 to 2,400 feet. Most camping options require preparation for self-sufficient backcountry stays with temperature variations of 20-30°F between day and night common even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: Downed Bridge Camp connects to several trails with elevation gains of 800-1,200 feet. "Great location for a small group to camp at. The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive," notes Miccal M.
Fishing from rocky outcroppings: Crane Pond Dispersed Site provides access to multiple fishing spots. Nicole T. reports: "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."
Stargazing in meadow clearings: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers unobstructed night sky viewing. Phil J. shares: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
What campers like
Pristine isolation: Last Light on Michigan Brook provides complete seclusion at the forest edge. Thomas and James S. advise: "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Private water access: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off sites include river proximity. Josie W. explains: "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."
Sunrise/sunset opportunities: The elevated meadows at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offer optimal sky viewing. Tim M. notes: "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. For Crane Pond Dispersed Site, Nicole T. cautions: "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."
Site privacy varies: Some sites provide complete isolation while others have limited visibility from roads. At Cod Pond Pull-Off, Taylor A. shares: "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."
Seasonal challenges: Consider weather conditions when planning. For Green Mountain National Forest, Joann notes: "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront options: Sites near water features provide natural entertainment. At Crane Pond, Nicole reports: "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12 feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons."
Hidden site markers: Some designated sites are difficult to locate without guidance. Taylor A. explains about 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 if you aren't paying close attention."
Wildlife viewing possibilities: Dawn and dusk offer wildlife sighting opportunities. At FR207, Phil J. experienced: "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Tips from RVers
Limited turnaround spaces: Most rustic camping near Bolton Landing lacks adequate turning space for larger vehicles. At Cod Pond, Josie W. advises: "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."
High clearance necessities: Rocky and unmaintained access roads require appropriate vehicles. Miccal M. cautions about FR207: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Early arrival recommended: Popular primitive sites fill quickly during peak seasons. Caitlin K. notes about Downed Bridge Camp: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
