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Best Dispersed Camping near Herkimer, NY

18 Reviews

Several state forests near Herkimer, New York provide opportunities for primitive camping on public lands. The area includes multiple dispersed sites like Fort Plain Lock 15, Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, North Lake Reservoir, Rockwood State Forest, and Whaupaunaucau State Forest. Most locations offer tent and small RV camping with minimal or no facilities, following New York State's dispersed camping regulations that allow camping on state forest lands at least 150 feet from water bodies and away from developed areas.

Access conditions vary significantly between sites. Many forest roads are unpaved and may become challenging after rain or snow. Visitors report that Duck Pond Campsite requires small vehicles only as "the road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough." Similarly, at Betty Brook Camp, one reviewer notes it's "rather remote" and "would not recommend this for large trailers." Most sites have fire rings but limited amenities—no running water, electricity, or trash service. Cell service is inconsistent across the region, with reviewers noting "zero Verizon cell service" at Powley Road and "intermittent cell service" at Duck Pond.

These primitive camping areas attract visitors seeking quiet natural settings away from developed campgrounds. North Lake Reservoir is described as "very remote and secluded" with beautiful lake views, while Whaupaunaucau State Forest offers "miles of trails for both hiking and cross country skiing." Campers value the solitude, with one noting that at Betty Brook Camp, "Sometimes you never see anyone." Many sites feature waterside locations—Fort Plain Lock 15 is "right on the water" of the Mohawk River, while Betty Brook offers camping "on the stream." According to a visitor, "Round Pond is a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Herkimer, New York (14)

    1. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    3 Reviews
    Fort Plain, NY
    20 miles

    "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area."

    "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."

    2. Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    2 Reviews
    Piseco, NY
    26 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "The road is in good condition. No AT&T cell service in this area."

    3. North Lake Reservoir Campground

    2 Reviews
    Otter Lake, NY
    34 miles

    "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."

    "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean."

    4. Rockwood State Forest

    Be the first to review!
    Caroga Lake, NY
    25 miles

    5. Whaupaunaucau State Forest

    1 Review
    Sherburne, NY
    38 miles
    Website

    "You have to work a bit to find info on the Whaupaunaucau state forest as a camping destination, but for primitive campers that is part of the appeal!"

    6. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    42 miles

    "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."

    "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots"

    7. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    45 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    8. Roadside Parking on Route 20

    1 Review
    Bouckville, NY
    32 miles

    9. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    44 miles

    "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."

    "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads"

    10. Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed

    1 Review
    South Plymouth, NY
    44 miles
    Website

    "This is a relatively new location for primitive camping in the Pharsalia Woods State Forest."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Herkimer, NY

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Herkimer, NY

18 Reviews of 14 Herkimer Campgrounds

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2019

    Whaupaunaucau State Forest

    Hidden gem in Chenango County

    You have to work a bit to find info on the Whaupaunaucau state forest as a camping destination, but for primitive campers that is part of the appeal! This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county, but this state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing. There is an offifical lean-to shelter and developed campsite on trail 20 (see map) but there are several primitive sites with tent site and stine fireplace, plus dispersed leave-no-trace camping is allowed anywhere in the state forest, and the possibilities are endless. Lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see. Just beware of ticks, they are invading the region

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2017

    Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site

    Bucks Brook primitive camping

    Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike on in the area; the Bucks Brook Forest Road follows a series of small waterfalls at the bottom of the gorge to the source of the creek near the top of the ridge above it, while the Finger Lakes trail follows the brook for a short while near its mouth before climbing offroad through the ridge high above the gorge, along steep cliffs above the Otselic and west along the crest of Bucks Brook Hill. There are several very primitive tent sites along the FTL, but dispersed camping is also allowed. Two sites on the ridge near the source of the Brook are accessible by the Finger Lakes trail either from Bucks Brook Rd or Ridge Rd.

    The setting is scenic and picturesque, and the winding trail can be quite a challenge if hiking the long way uphill on the FTL. An easier hike-in access is at Ridge Rd, about a 1/4 hike to the brook where there are several nice flat tent sites. The brook is beautiful and unspoiled, but this truly is primitive camping, no picnic tables, no lean-to shelter like at somecother area FTL campsites, no water source other than the brook (you should filter it even though the source is a spring near by), no latrines, no fire grates though there is a stone fire ring and you could easily build a new one of your own with stones from the brook.

    Although this is an idyllic and secluded spot for primitive camping, and the hike in (either via the long or short way) is well marked and enjoyable, the campsites are really nothing more than flat ground for basic tent-sites; this location could be improved with at least a fire grate, and preferably a lean-to. Also, the parking spot for access to the trail and tentsites really needs to be upgraded; it is just a muddy turnout off the forest road. Hence the four star rating d spite the five star brook and forest! However, it should be mentioned that the amenities at campsites along other segments if the FLT have been developed and maintained not by the DEC but by different volunteer chapters of the trail organization who have adopted certain local segments; this Bucks Brook section just hasnt been adopted yet! It has the potential for being a 5-star primitive camping experience if upgraded a bit; volunteers should feel free to step forth!

    For more on the Bucks Brook section if the Finger Lakes Trail, go to this link: http://www.cnyhiking.com/FLT-BucksBrookSF.htm

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed

    Finger Lakes Trailhead off Grover Brown Rd

    The coordinates lead you to a small parking area at the end of Grover Brown Rd, which is accessed by going north from Rt 23. The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road. But if you follow the road north to the end, you will come to a dead end and a parking circle that gives you the option of hiking north past a gate into the state forest on a hunting trail, or west onto the Finger Lakes Trail where dispersed camping is allowed within the state forest. However, the whole road in is a tough ride, it is posted extensively en route that you are passing private property with no trespassing allowed until you see the DEC sign announcing the border of the state forest. The parking area is overgrown, the neighbors aling the road en route seem frustrated with hikers coming into the forest via this route, and the Trailhead here for the Finger Lakes Trail is blocked by downed trees that seem to have been there for a while. While you might try to hike the trail for day use, I wonder if this may not be a great place to leave your car during a foray into the woods for dispersed camping. Although the Pharsalia Forest is beautiful throughout, and dispersed camping is allowed throughout, there are better places to access it. There are also designated primitive campsites in several locations in other areas of this state forest which are worthy of your camping adventures! You

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 31, 2025

    Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed

    Primitive camping at Round Pound

    This is a relatively new location for primitive camping in the Pharsalia Woods State Forest. There is a parking area just off the Plymouth Reservoir Rd that allows you to access a network of trails that traverse the state preserve around the unique Round Pond and adjacent bog. Primitive camping is allowed anywhere in the vicinity as long as you are 150 feet from the waters edge and away from the parking lot. The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem. You need to sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees. One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration. You can also access the bog pond here if using kayaks or canoes. It is like a unique wilderness location fir primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!

    For more info on the Pharsalia Woods in general, and the Round Pond in particular, visit this link on the DEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/places/pharsalia-woods-state-forest Be sure to also click on the link on that page regarding primitive camping at this site

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    Bear Wallow Pond

    This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind. The site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond, which is unnamed on the map but is an impoundment of Bear Wallow Creek so it can be considered Bear Wallow Pond. I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking. 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, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail (see website for this listing for map of the refuge and more info at https://cnyhiking.com/FLT-PharsaliaWMA.htm)

    You can get to the site from state highway 23 via the Benedict Hill Rd, or from the hamlet of Beaver Meadow going south and west of Cole Hill via Mud Lane. A peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend. I give it 4 stars not for amenities but for being an idyllic example of a dispersed primitive site

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Open quite campsites

    After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a 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. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Small vehicle only

    The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. The site itself, was pretty nice, Fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads

  • Ashlee C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2024

    North Lake Reservoir Campground

    Beautiful spot!

    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. Fire pit at the site and a bathroom across the way from the first site.

  • Mona M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Just Passed Lock 15

    Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area. The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license). Verizon cell service is good here. At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter.

Guide to Herkimer

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Herkimer, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Scenic views at North Lake Reservoir for dispersed campers

  • North Lake Reservoir offers stunning views of the lake, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate picturesque scenery.
  • Campers can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, with ample space for both car camping and tent setups.
  • The site features a fire pit, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.

Outdoor Activities while free camping near Herkimer

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Herkimer, New York

  • When visiting Betty Brook Camp, be prepared for a remote experience with limited amenities, making it essential to bring your own supplies.
  • Always check the road conditions before heading to Duck Pond Campsite, as some access roads can be rough and unpaved.
  • Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles at Whaupaunaucau State Forest to help preserve the natural beauty of the area for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Herkimer?

Several state forests near Herkimer offer free dispersed camping options. Whaupaunaucau State Forest provides a network of hiking trails and primitive camping opportunities in a relatively unknown oasis. North Lake Reservoir Campground offers 32 free sites around the lake, including some walk-in spots right on the water. Both locations provide secluded experiences without fees. State forests generally allow dispersed camping at least 150 feet from water sources, roads, and trails. Always check for specific regulations before camping as rules may change seasonally.

Are there any designated dispersed camping areas in Herkimer for tents and RVs?

Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed has designated areas accessible via Grover Brown Rd, though the road is in rough shape with a sign indicating it's low maintenance. For both tents and small RVs, Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail offers a large, rocky parking lot right on the Mohawk River, suitable for vehicle camping. Be aware that many dispersed sites in the area have rough access roads that may not be suitable for larger RVs or trailers. Always scout locations in advance if bringing an RV.

What amenities are available at primitive camping sites near Herkimer?

Primitive camping sites near Herkimer typically have minimal amenities. Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site features beautiful gorge scenery with small waterfalls but offers no facilities. Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite has a clearing for tenting and fishing access to a pond, but no potable water or other amenities. Most dispersed sites in the area only provide basic fire rings. You'll need to pack in your own water, toilet supplies, and food. Cell service is often intermittent or unavailable. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles when camping at these primitive locations.

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