Dispersed camping near Fort Drum, New York offers backcountry experiences primarily in the western Adirondacks region, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer daytime highs typically reach 70-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most sites require visitors to pack out all trash and bring water filtration systems due to lack of facilities.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Many dispersed camping areas connect to trail systems. Winona State Forest features primitive sites near trailheads. "The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail," notes Kevin C., who found the small but peaceful site just off Bargy Road.
Fishing spots: Stillwater Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities across its 6,700-acre expanse. Sam T. explains, "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self."
Wildlife viewing: Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offer opportunities to observe diverse Adirondack wildlife. "The millions upon millions of dragonflies help make up for the mosquitoes," mentions Shari G., who spent three nights camping on Catamount Island.
Paddling routes: Stillwater Reservoir's numerous boat-in sites make it ideal for canoe or kayak camping adventures. One camper reports, "We took a canoe to our site... warm weather, warm water and the bugs were not terrible, we were at Site 1, secluded in a cove."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Towsley Road Dispersed Camping offers a convenient yet secluded spot. Noah D. describes it as "nice place to sleep... good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road," noting you need to continue "until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road."
Natural beaches: Payne Lake Dispersed Site features shoreline access with natural swimming areas. According to Mona M., "Public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site... Beautiful views, peaceful and quiet."
Digital detox: Most dispersed sites around Fort Drum have minimal to no cellular coverage. At Stillwater Reservoir, camper Sam T. notes that it's perfect "if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights in the Adirondack region provide exceptional stargazing. "Just returned from our annual week at the reservoir, such beauty! We saw Bald Eagles and Loons," writes Christie M. about her family's stay at site #37.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require significant travel on rough roads. Dane P. describes the journey to Stillwater Reservoir as "a 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road. Pretty cool! Surprisingly the place wasn't that populated as I expected it to be."
Site availability: Most dispersed camping in the area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Kane warns, "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached... best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite."
Weather preparedness: Sudden rainstorms are common throughout spring and summer. Kevin C. reports from Winona State Forest: "It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful."
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal or no amenities. Thomas E. found at Winona State Forest that "There were some firewood set out except it was wet. Overall a good free quiet place to camp."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming areas: Look for sites with gradual entry points into water. Elizabeth B. notes that Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping "has always been lovely and quiet and a great place to take youth campers."
Insect management: Plan for heavy mosquito activity, especially on hiking trails. "While the mosquitoes weren't bad at the campsite itself or while kayaking, they are terrible on the trails this time of year; so bring your bug spray, or better yet, bug shirts!" advises Shari G. about Cranberry Lake.
Supplies and provisions: Stock up before arriving as amenities are scarce. "The Village of Cranberry Lake has some supplies, but not much except the very basics at the general store. You'll need to head to Star Lake or Tupper Lake for anything of significance," reports one camper.
Water safety: Always supervise children at waterfront sites. Christie M. mentions enjoying "swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family" at Stillwater Reservoir, where the large site accommodated "20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-accessible spots: Very few dispersed sites can accommodate RVs. Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping requires "a short hike in to a great beach for swimming or paddling," making it tent-only according to Elizabeth B., who notes "The trail down to the beach is only about a hundred feet, but it is downhill."
Parking restrictions: Most areas have minimal parking. At Sunday Lake, Elizabeth B. observes there's "Space to park two cars or a small RV off the road" and notes the actual campsite requires a "0.3 miles To Sunday lake" walk.
Road conditions: Forest roads may be impassable for larger vehicles. Sam T. found the "only car accessible campsite" at Stillwater Reservoir to be "a great camp site very big and had a trail that lead down to the water."
