Primitive camping near Clarksville, New York offers opportunities throughout the northern Catskills and adjacent regions. The area sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet, with camp spots typically accessed via forest service roads. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with summer highs averaging in the mid-70s. Most dispersed sites follow standard New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulations limiting stays to 3 consecutive nights.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Mohawk River at Fort Plain Lock 15 offers prime waterfront locations. "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)," notes camper Mona M.
Trail exploration: Many primitive sites connect to nearby trail systems. At NFR 273, campers report "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious" with "a lot of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings." Several campers recommend exploring alternate spots along the same forest road.
Winter activities: Cold weather camping remains popular in these forests. Catskill sites like Echo Lake offer year-round access when roads permit. "The lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean-to with a few campfire spots," writes James A., noting the elevated sites provide "beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
What campers like
Solitude factor: Remote locations like Betty Brook Camp provide exceptional privacy. "Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B., who has visited for "a couple of decades."
Transportation sounds: Some campers specifically seek sites with ambient noise. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one reviewer appreciates "sounds of the highway and freight trains going by," noting "if you need quiet, keep on moving."
Site flexibility: Many forest areas permit camping anywhere following proper setbacks. "Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots," notes a reviewer about Ushers Road State Forest.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires careful navigation. At Duck Pond Campsite, one camper warns "the road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse," adding that "intermittent cell service" made navigation particularly challenging.
Seasonal crowding: Even remote areas experience busy periods. At NFR 273, a mid-week camper in October reported "had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot" despite visiting off-season.
Regulatory changes: Always verify current regulations. Jug End, previously open for camping, now appears restricted according to a recent visitor who noted "This is a hiking trail only - no camping per website."
Tips for camping with families
Protected sites: For safer family camping with less weather exposure, look for established sites. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp offers spots that are "right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential, especially in wooded areas. At NFR 273, campers report "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seem to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Lake access: For swimming options, consider lake-adjacent sites. Echo Lake provides multiple tent areas where "the sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees," though one camper notes "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Small RV recommendations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only compact vehicles. At Betty Brook Camp, a local resident advises "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in a state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Parking surface assessment: Many forest road pull-offs have soft surfaces unsuitable for heavier vehicles. At NFR 273, a van camper reported "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though."
Dump station planning: No dispersed sites offer waste disposal, requiring advance planning. Fort Plain Lock 15 provides the rare amenity of trash disposal with "pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter."
