Dispersed camping options surrounding Delanson, New York predominantly occupy state forest lands across the western Catskills and southern Adirondack foothills. The region's terrain varies from densely wooded hillsides to stream valleys with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. Seasonal access changes dramatically, with winter conditions often requiring four-wheel drive vehicles from December through March in many locations.
What to do
Explore riverside terrain: At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, campers can access numerous water features. "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," notes one visitor who advises "there is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly."
Mountain biking on forest trails: Ushers Road State Forest provides extensive trail networks suitable for cycling. A recent visitor reports, "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 includes varied conditions with "low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
Fishing opportunities: The waterfront location at Lock 15 offers direct water access for anglers. According to visitors, it's "situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)." Local regulations require fishing permits which can be purchased in nearby towns.
What campers like
Secluded woodland settings: Many visitors appreciate the isolation found at Echo Lake where "the lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)." Some campers recommend hilltop positions that provide "a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Waterfront parking: The unique setup at Fort Plain Lock 15 appeals to many overnight campers. "Simply it's a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water," explains one visitor who adds that while there are "sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving."
Year-round accessibility: Winter camping enthusiasts find certain locations particularly suitable during colder months. One visitor to Duck Pond Campsite noted "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. A visitor to Duck Pond Campsite warns about "driving unpaved dirt road for a while" and recommends "just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions." Another adds that "intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Camp amenities are minimal: Most dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency. At Betty Brook Camp, campers note it "is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Available site capacity: Consider group size when selecting locations. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, "There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft." Other areas like Ushers Road provide "an abundance of potential camping spots" since "camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, select campgrounds with shorter hiking distances. Echo Lake offers "tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake. The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees."
Plan for lack of facilities: No restrooms exist at most free camping near Delanson, New York. A visitor to Powley Road notes "some of the sites even have an outhouse" but these are exceptions rather than the rule. Most locations require wilderness bathroom practices.
Prepare for insects: Seasonal bug activity affects comfort levels, particularly near water. One Echo Lake camper advises, "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray" and reminds families to "practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas cannot accommodate large trailers. At Betty Brook Camp, a local resident specifically warns, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Level parking challenges: Finding flat surfaces for RVs requires scouting. At Fort Plain Lock 15, visitors describe "a gravel parking lot that is easy to find a level spot in" while noting it provides "a nice view" despite nearby transportation noise.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation for RVers. One camper at Burnt Rossman found it "a great location for winter camping" with sites that are "easily accessible from road" but prepare for limited services during cold weather months.
