Dispersed camping near Childwold, New York occurs primarily within the Five Ponds Wilderness Area of the Adirondack Park, featuring mixed northern hardwood and conifer forests at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F days to 50-60°F nights, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most primitive sites require detailed topographic maps and navigation skills as trail markers can be minimal or weathered in remote areas.
What to do
Paddle to remote islands: At Stillwater Reservoir, kayakers can access Long Island for complete isolation. "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self," reports one Stillwater Reservoir visitor.
Explore beaver dams: Multiple pond ecosystems created by beaver activity provide unique ecological viewing. A camper at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites noted, "Beautiful campgrounds... clean.. friendly.. amazing lake for kayaking and boating."
Visit local fire towers: Hike to historic fire observation towers located near several camping areas. One camper mentioned, "This campsite is right down the road from the fire tower trail," when describing their stay at Stillwater Reservoir.
Fishing opportunities: Spring and fall offer optimal fishing conditions with brook and lake trout among common catches. During summer months, early morning and evening provide best results.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of camping areas ensures minimal noise from neighboring campers. At Little Green Pond, visitors appreciate the "12 designated camping spots. Some require driving down a bumpy access road that can be muddy after a rain. Sites are on the Pond."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including loons, bald eagles, deer, and beaver. "The season had had unusually low water all over and it left a really unusual landscape on the beach to explore," reported one visitor about Stillwater Reservoir.
Swimming beaches: Several sites offer natural sand beaches for water access. According to a Little Green Pond visitor, "Pond has a small beach to swim. Tree covered sites."
No technology distractions: Nearly all locations lack cellular reception, creating true disconnection. At Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road, one camper simply stated, "Camped here for a few days, no cell, no internet."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Only specific sites permit drive-up access. One reviewer at Stillwater Reservoir cautioned, "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached."
Weather preparedness: Rain protection is essential as summer thunderstorms develop quickly. "Even in cold rainy weather we had a phenomenal time at Stillwater. Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees," shared one camper.
Limited drinking water: No potable water exists at sites; all water must be carried in or filtered. Bring multiple filter options as beaver activity impacts water quality.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads to Horseshoe Lake require careful driving. "Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow," notes one camper about accessing the designated sites.
Supply planning: Limited resupply options exist within 20 miles. Multiple campers mention bringing all necessary supplies for their entire stay.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Choose locations with sandy beaches and gradual water entry. A family at Stillwater Reservoir shared, "just returned from our annual week at the reservoir, such beauty! We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Distance considerations: With children, select sites requiring minimal hiking from parking areas. Most boat-access sites require paddling 1-3 miles.
Toilet facilities: Most backcountry sites feature basic privy boxes. At Ward Brook Campsite, a camper noted "Great campsite with a nice lean-to. Fire pit, picnic table, and a privy."
Group accommodations: Some locations accommodate larger family gatherings. One Stillwater Reservoir reviewer mentioned their "site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!"
Tips from RVers
Solar power limitations: Dense tree cover affects solar charging systems. At Horseshoe Lake, a camper observed, "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges."
Access road conditions: Road quality varies seasonally with spring thaw creating challenging conditions. "a 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road. Pretty cool!" reported one Stillwater Reservoir visitor.
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs under 25 feet. Larger rigs should consider established campgrounds instead.
Cell signal for emergencies: Limited reception exists at select locations. "Slight AT&T at earlier sites," notes one Horseshoe Lake visitor regarding connectivity.