Best Dispersed Camping near Colton, NY
The Adirondack region surrounding Colton, New York features numerous dispersed camping opportunities centered around lakes and reservoirs. Stillwater Reservoir stands out with its highly-rated free sites, many accessible only by boat, while Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offer island camping experiences on Catamount Island. Other options include Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road, Payne Lake Dispersed Site, and Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping, all within a 30-mile radius of Colton. Most sites are primitive with minimal amenities, though some include basic facilities like fire rings and picnic tables. The area's camping landscape is characterized by waterfront locations that provide opportunities for paddling, swimming, and fishing.
Access to many sites requires careful planning, particularly for water-based camping. As one camper noted about Stillwater Reservoir, "Almost everything is meant to be accessed by boat," with only one car-accessible site available. Most locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations possible. Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region, with one visitor reporting, "Zero service out there" at Stillwater. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer bringing warmer temperatures and increased insect activity, while September offers cooler temperatures with fewer bugs. Many sites require visitors to bring or filter their own water, as potable water sources are scarce.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with multiple reviewers highlighting the peaceful seclusion. Island camping on Stillwater Reservoir and Cranberry Lake provides exceptional privacy, with one camper describing "having the whole island to ourselves." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with reports of bald eagles and loons. Visitors frequently mention the pristine swimming conditions, with one noting that "the swimming is fantastic, water is clean and clear" at Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping. Hiking trails connect to many sites, including the Stillwater Firetower trail. Amenities vary significantly between locations, with some sites featuring privies and fire rings while others offer no facilities whatsoever. The common thread among visitor experiences is the sense of disconnection from everyday life, with one camper summarizing Stillwater as "a wonderful place to get lost, voluntarily at least."
