Dispersed camping options near Harrisville, New York extend throughout the western Adirondacks region into the Tug Hill Plateau. The area features numerous primitive camping opportunities on both state forest and conservation easement lands. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during the day with cooler nights, while winter brings substantial snowfall exceeding 200 inches annually in some locations.
What to do
Swimming in secluded areas: Seventh Lake Primitive Camping offers excellent water access with minimal boat traffic. "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited," notes one camper.
Kayaking and canoeing: Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites provides excellent paddling opportunities with islands available for camping. "In addition to many cool places to kayak from the island, there are a few hiking trails where you can land your boat and hike for a few hours. The Curtis Pond hike was our favorite and there are some incredible beaver dams along the way."
Hiking nearby trails: Several dispersed camping areas connect to trail systems. At Stillwater Reservoir, one campsite is "right down the road from the fire tower trail," while another visitor mentions the Bug Lake trail being accessible from Seventh Lake primitive sites.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Winona State Forest receives positive reviews for its quiet atmosphere. "Overall a good free quiet place to camp," notes one visitor, while another stated, "The campsite was quiet and peaceful" despite rain during their stay.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping at North Lake Reservoir Campground provides excellent nature observation. With "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," creating perfect conditions for spotting local wildlife.
Beach access: Several sites feature sandy beaches. At Stillwater Reservoir, one camper enjoyed "a gorgeous waterfront... a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees. The season had had unusually low water all over and it left a really unusual landscape on the beach to explore."
What you should know
Boat access requirements: Many campsites require watercraft to reach. At Payne Lake Dispersed Site, there's a "public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site."
Water filtration necessary: Bring filtration equipment for all sites. At Cranberry Lake, campers are advised that "you will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake, so don't forget your water filter."
Difficult site identification: Finding some dispersed sites requires careful navigation. At Winona State Forest, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Limited amenities: Most free camping near Harrisville provides minimal facilities. One Payne Lake visitor noted, "No amenities on-site," typical of most dispersed camping in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Island camping opportunities: Stillwater Reservoir features island sites perfect for family adventures. One visitor enjoyed "site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!" Another reported, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic during summer months. While exploring trails near Cranberry Lake, one camper found that "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!"
Beach activities: Several sites feature sandy beaches ideal for children. At Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping, "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear" with "a short hike in to a great beach for swimming or paddling."
Tips from RVers
Limited access for larger vehicles: Most free camping near Harrisville has restricted vehicle access. At Horseshoe Lake, "Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow," but generally accommodates smaller rigs only.
Solar power challenges: Dense forest cover affects solar charging capability. One camper at Horseshoe Lake noted, "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges."
Navigation considerations: Some areas have confusing access roads. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, visitors should "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."
