Dispersed camping near Clemons, New York extends beyond the immediate Adirondack region into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. The area sits at the convergence of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain valley, with elevations ranging from 100 feet near the lake to 2,000+ feet in the higher terrain. Most dispersed sites remain snow-covered until mid-April, with access roads often impassable during spring thaw.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports Phil J., who enjoyed winter camping in the area.
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide exceptional astronomy opportunities at higher elevation sites. "Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful," notes a winter camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Hiking: Multiple trail systems connect dispersed camping areas to longer routes. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," explains Tim M. about the Forest Road 207 area, noting good cell reception with "2 bars USCellular LTE."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Streamside sites at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites are particularly sought after. "If you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits and if your lucky you can get one on the river," explains Miccal M.
Natural water sources: Most sites require water filtration equipment. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," reports J W. at Texas Falls primitive sites, who also noted they found "several sites with only a fire pit along the brook."
End-of-road privacy: The most isolated sites often require navigating rough forest roads. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, campers find a "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles," according to Miccal M.
What you should know
Site limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate small groups only. At On the Hill Dispersed Camp, Miccal M. notes it's "a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Road conditions: Forest roads deteriorate significantly during wet periods. "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded... Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises Joann at Green Mountain National Forest.
Arrival timing: Prime sites fill quickly on weekends. At Downed Bridge Camp, Caitlin K. suggests: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend... If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Sites near water require extra supervision for children. At Last light on Michigan Brook, Thomas and James S. note: "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Site cleanliness: Some popular areas show signs of overuse. At Texas Falls, J W. observed: "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area... They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find."
Trail accessibility: Some sites offer short hikes suitable for children. "The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive," notes Miccal M. about Downed Bridge Camp, making it appropriate for families who can manage a short walk with gear.
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Most forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," warns Miccal M. about Forest Road 207, adding, "Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Limited turnaround space: RV access is severely restricted on narrow forest roads. At Downed Bridge Camp, Miccal M. explains it's "Great location for a small group to camp at," but notes only certain vehicles can navigate the approach roads.
Site selection: Larger rigs should stick to designated roadside pull-offs. "Also, make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground," warns Amanda about FR207, where RV options are limited to the most accessible spots.
