Dispersed camping near Corinth, New York offers backcountry options throughout the southern Adirondacks region, where elevations range from 800 to 2,800 feet. The mix of hardwood and conifer forests creates seasonal camping variations, with spring mud season typically lasting until mid-May. Several designated primitive sites have specific site markers, while others require campers to follow New York State DEC's 150-foot rule when setting up camp away from roads and water sources.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking: Ushers Road State Forest provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails branching in multiple directions. "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, likely due to recent rainfall," notes a reviewer at Ushers Road State Forest.
Paddling and fishing: Somerset Reservoir near the Vermont border offers extensive water recreation opportunities within driving distance. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," reports a camper at Somerset Airfield.
Sunset viewing: Higher elevation sites provide exceptional views at dusk. "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I've camped at," shares a visitor to Crane Mountain Pond Campsite.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many sites offer the calming sounds of moving water. "There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night," describes one camper about their experience at Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off.
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites include previously constructed fire pits. "About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use," notes a reviewer at Ushers Road State Forest.
Privacy options: For those seeking seclusion, deeper forest sites exist beyond roadside options. "Had a quiet and peaceful stay. Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods," reports a camper at Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads become challenging in adverse conditions. "Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere," warns a Somerset Airfield visitor. High-clearance vehicles remain recommended for most sites.
Toilet availability varies: While many sites lack facilities, some include basic outhouses. "Some of the sites even have an outhouse," notes a Powley Road camper. Pack out all waste from sites without facilities.
Zero cell service: Most areas have limited to no connectivity. "There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly," cautions a Powley Road visitor about primitive camping near Corinth.
Site selection timing: Arrive early during peak seasons. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," shares a camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot.
Tips for camping with families
Choose flat terrain: Many sites have uneven ground that becomes noticeable when sleeping. "The site has plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc," advises a Cod Pond camper.
Sites with river access: Look for camps with water features for entertainment. "Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site," recommends a visitor to Powley Road.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience vehicle traffic or transportation sounds. "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving," suggests a camper at Fort Plain Lock 15.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger rigs require specific sites with adequate turning space. "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," mentions a Somerset Airfield visitor regarding dispersed camping options near Corinth.
Parking limitations: Many primitive sites have constrained vehicle areas. "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," cautions a Cod Pond camper.
Resource planning: No hookups exist at any dispersed sites. "No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors," summarizes a Somerset Airfield visitor.
