Primitive camping near Cherry Plain, New York offers direct access to the natural landscapes of the Taconic Mountains region. Most available sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet with significant temperature variations between seasons. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 15°F, while summer evenings typically cool to the 50s even after warm days, requiring proper gear regardless of season.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at Somerset Reservoir: Located about 25 minutes from dispersed sites along Forest Road 71, the reservoir provides extensive paddling opportunities in a motorboat-restricted environment. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes a visitor to Somerset Airfield.
Winter camping challenges: For adventurous winter campers, the Green Mountain region offers a completely different experience. "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars," reports a camper who visited Somerset Airfield during winter months.
Hiking the network of trails: Multiple trail networks connect the dispersed camping areas, with the Appalachian Trail accessible from several points. A visitor to Ushers Road State Forest shared: "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area."
What campers like
Isolation and dark skies: The remote location creates opportunities for stargazing without light pollution. "What a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," writes a camper about NF83 Dispersed site 1, highlighting the truly primitive camping experience available near Cherry Plain.
Multiple camping options in close proximity: The area offers various site configurations to match different camping styles. "Easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot. I did see a huge blackbear. I didn't see any bathrooms," notes a camper at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71.
Well-built fire rings: Most sites feature established fire rings despite their primitive status. A visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness commented: "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain."
What you should know
Potential for muddy conditions: Many sites become challenging to access after rain. "Different size sites, att cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores," reports a camper at George D Aiken Wilderness, while another noted: "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Inconsistent maintenance: Be prepared to potentially clean up after previous visitors. A camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 shared: "I would have given 5 stars except for the unfortunate fact that 2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Variable accessibility: Road conditions change significantly by season and after weather events. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper reported: "The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural boundaries: For families with young children, look for sites with natural barriers to define camping area limits. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit! The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side," advises a visitor to NF 83 - riverside.
Consider weekend congestion: Holiday weekends can bring unexpected crowds and noise. "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites downbeat resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond and multiple families left," warned a Somerset Airfield visitor.
Look for larger clearing sites: Several areas offer more spacious options. "This site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers. It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd. There weren't many mosquitoes either," notes a camper about Statton Pond Camp.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal access considerations: Winter conditions drastically change accessibility for larger vehicles. A winter visitor to Somerset Airfield mentioned: "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night."
Clearance requirements: Road quality varies significantly across the network of forest roads. "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle," cautions a camper about NF83 Dispersed site 1, emphasizing the importance of vehicle clearance for accessing more remote primitive camping near Cherry Plain.
