Dispersed camping areas around Camden, New York provide no-cost overnight options in the Adirondack foothills. Elevations range from 400 to 1,200 feet across these state forest camping spots, with most sites situated among mixed hardwood and conifer forests. Access roads often become muddy during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall, requiring vehicles with moderate clearance.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers access to a pristine lake where anglers can fish for various species. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean. Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around," advises camper J B.
Hiking trail access: Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground connects directly to the National North Country Scenic Trail system. "Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring," notes Janet R.
Paddling options: Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite provides water access for small watercraft. "If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge," explains a visitor who describes the shoreline wildflowers as "riotous" in summer.
What campers like
Remote seclusion: Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping requires a 0.3-mile walk-in but rewards visitors with privacy. "This is a small primitive site. No services, but a very beautiful spot. There's a small fire ring, and access to the lake for swimming or fishing," reports Elizabeth B., who notes it's "always been lovely and quiet and a great place to take youth campers."
Easy roadside access: Towsley Road Dispersed Camping offers convenient free camping near Camden for those who prefer not to venture far from their vehicle. "Nice place to sleep. Good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road. When you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road," explains Noah D.
Established fire rings: Winona State Forest provides rock fire rings at their primitive sites. Kevin C. reports, "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail." This makes the site suitable for campers seeking free camping with basic amenities.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Many dispersed sites have minimal markings and can be difficult to locate. At Winona State Forest, Thomas E. found "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Water availability: None of these free camping areas provide potable water. At Morgan Hill Forest, Janet R. advises campers to "bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary between sites. While Winona State Forest and Morgan Hill allow fires in established rings, some areas prohibit them entirely. Check current regulations before your trip as restrictions may change seasonally.
Map requirements: Forest road networks can be confusing. Janet R. suggests: "Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map."
Tips for camping with families
Lake access sites: North Lake Reservoir Campground provides family-friendly lakefront camping. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent," reports Ashlee C.
Toilet proximity: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but North Lake Reservoir has limited toilet access. Ashlee C. mentions "a bathroom across the way from the first site," making this location more suitable for families with young children compared to other completely undeveloped options.
Wildlife education: Bear Wallow Pond offers opportunities for teaching children about forest ecology. Janet R. describes seeing "shoreline wildflowers" in summer and "breathtaking" fall colors, providing natural science learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Small RV sites: At Bucks Brook State Forest, the parking area is limited. Janet R. describes it as "just a muddy turnout off the forest road," indicating only smaller RVs can be accommodated for those hoping to base camp while hiking.
Accessibility considerations: Morgan Hill Forest includes two developed sites that are somewhat accessible. "There are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible," notes Janet R., though she cautions there are "NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground."
Vehicle clearance: Forest roads leading to dispersed camping areas often deteriorate after weather events. Kevin C. mentioned camping at Winona during rainfall, suggesting vehicles should have adequate clearance for potentially muddy conditions.
