Dispersed camping near Cleverdale, New York offers primitive sites throughout the Adirondack Forest Preserve where elevations range from 200 to 5,000 feet. The region averages 35-45 inches of precipitation annually, with many remote sites receiving less visitation during midweek periods. Green Mountain National Forest sites in nearby Vermont provide additional camping options with varying terrain and access conditions.
What to do
Fishing spots: Somerset Reservoir near Somerset Airfield provides abundant fishing opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes camper M.A.D. P.
Winter camping: Some areas remain accessible year-round with proper preparation. A camper at Somerset Airfield reports, "We endured snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3."
Hiking trails: Ushers Road State Forest offers multiple trail options for day hiking. According to one visitor, "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
Privacy: Many sites offer secluded camping away from crowds. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, campers appreciate the isolation: "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss... Felt private despite the road."
Water sounds: Riverside camping spots provide natural ambiance. At Cod Pond, one reviewer mentioned, "There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites come with basic fire containment. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, visitors note, "The only thing you will find here is a fire ring," while another camper at Downed Bridge Camp similarly reports, "The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads demand appropriate vehicles. For Crane Pond Dispersed Site, campers warn: "From experience - if your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground. Not fit for an RV in any capacity."
Site availability: Prime locations fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Downed Bridge Camp, one visitor advises, "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Seasonal mud: Spring and fall bring challenging conditions. One camper at Forest Road 71 reported, "This particular campsite is very muddy. Well, at least today it is. I have an SUV and I didn't trust it to get through, and I didn't want to get stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for waterfront options that offer natural entertainment. At Crane Pond, a camper notes, "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."
Communication preparedness: Bring alternative communication methods. A Somerset Airfield camper reports, "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
Pack extra supplies: Many sites require complete self-sufficiency. Forest Road 71 campers warn about site conditions: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed areas have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Downed Bridge Camp, campers suggest, "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."
Somerset alternatives: For RV camping, Somerset Airfield offers more suitable terrain. "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," notes a regular visitor.
Turn-around space: Consider vehicle maneuvering when selecting sites. At Cod Pond, one camper warns, "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."
