Tent campsites near Fultonville, New York range from shoreline sites along canal systems to secluded forest settings within the Adirondack foothills. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation in the Mohawk Valley region, where summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity than higher-elevation Adirondack campgrounds. Winter camping remains available at select locations but requires proper cold-weather preparation.
What to do
Fishing access points: Murphy Lake Leanto provides fishing opportunities at not just one but three water bodies. "This leanto is worth the effort it takes to get there. A two hour bike ride with a couple of breaks... passing by two other bodies of water, Bennett and Middle Lakes," notes Tony F., who recommends planning for a full-day excursion to reach this remote site.
Cross-country skiing: Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park maintains winter trails through mature forest areas. "Come for a long weekend of cozy cabin time and quiet time outdoors on the winter trails," suggests Janet R., who recommends booking one of the winterized cabins for cold-weather camping trips.
Mountain biking: Primitive camping options near Fultonville connect to technical trail systems. "The Murphy Bennett Trails is a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls," warns a reviewer who tracked their descent back to Route 30 at "4 minutes 34 seconds."
What campers like
Private pond access: Duck Pond Campsite provides water access that helps manage insect populations. "The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad," notes Yae U., who appreciated the well-maintained sites despite rough access roads.
Established fire rings: Several primitive sites feature pre-existing stone fire rings that indicate safe cooking areas. At Ushers Road State Forest, "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," according to The L.
Canal-side camping: Waterfront camping opportunities exist for tent campers looking for established sites. "The Canal Corporation provides designated spots for tent and van camping along the canal," reports Mona M., adding that stays at these locations have specific time constraints.
What you should know
Vehicle accessibility constraints: Many dispersed tent camping sites near Fultonville require appropriate vehicle selection. At Duck Pond Campsite, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse," cautions a camper who noted intermittent cell service made navigation particularly challenging.
Limited communication options: Cell service varies dramatically across camping areas. "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads," reports a camper who struggled with connectivity while attempting to navigate to more remote sites.
Camping setback requirements: State forest lands maintain specific distance requirements for dispersed camping. "Camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail," notes a reviewer who found "an abundance of potential camping spots" meeting these requirements.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park offers developed facilities suitable for younger campers. "There is a beautiful picnic pavilion and playground, so kid friendly," reports Janet, though noting that "pets can come for day use but can't stay in the cabins."
Family-operated campgrounds: Stony Creek Family Campground provides a more structured environment with amenities. "It's a nice family ran campground," states Elizabeth P., who plans return visits based on positive experiences.
Glamping alternatives: For families not ready for primitive tent camping, alternative accommodations exist. "This is a small hidden gem of a state park where the only camping available is in camper cabins—and pretty amazing glamping for camper cabins!" writes a reviewer who appreciated the privacy despite the developed setting.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: RV campers face significant limitations at most primitive sites. At E16 Canal Lock, "RVs and travel trailers are not permitted," according to Mona M., limiting options for larger vehicles throughout the canal system.
Services availability: Most primitive tent sites near Fultonville lack hookups or dump stations. RVers should note that potable water, electric connections, and waste disposal facilities are generally unavailable at forest camping locations, requiring self-contained operation.
Seasonal access considerations: Unpaved forest roads that may be passable during dry summer months often become impassable for RVs during spring thaw or following heavy rain. Several campers report road conditions deteriorating significantly after weather events, requiring alternative routes or postponed visits.
