The Inlet region of New York's Adirondacks offers numerous primitive camping near Inlet, New York options at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 feet. The area typically receives 40-50 inches of rain annually with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most dispersed sites require visitors to bring all necessities, including water filtration systems.
What to do
Hiking and exploration: Several dispersed camping areas offer access to notable hiking trails. At Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping, campers can experience quiet solitude. "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," notes Elizabeth B.
Kayaking and paddling: Backcountry water access provides excellent opportunities for water sports. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offers island camping with water-based activities. A camper shares, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The remote nature of these sites allows for wildlife spotting. Christie M. from Stillwater Reservoir reports, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The remote nature of many sites provides solitude. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, Taylor A. mentions, "The site has its own private road. A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV."
Beach access: Several sites feature sandy shorelines for swimming. At Stillwater Reservoir, Elizabeth B. notes, "Even in cold rainy weather we had a phenomenal time at Stillwater. Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees."
Star gazing: The lack of light pollution makes for excellent night skies. "We've stayed here many times in tents and hammock tents. The swimming is fantastic - water is clean and clear," describes Elizabeth B. about Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Water access challenges: Most sites require water transportation. Mary B. from Seventh Lake Primitive Camping explains, "We accessed the sites by water on a canoe trip. There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out."
Limited facilities: Prepare to be self-sufficient with waste management and water filtration. Shari G. advises, "Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Ours had an extensive pile of dry wood, too. There is a decent privy tucked back in the woods. Bring your own TP though! Also, you will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake."
No cell service: Connectivity is virtually non-existent throughout the region. Taylor A. reports, "There is no service at all" at Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, while The L. confirms, "There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly" at Powley Road.
Tips for camping with families
Island adventures: Some sites offer unique island camping experiences. At Cranberry Lake, Shari G. shares, "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible."
Spacious sites: Some locations accommodate larger groups. Christie M. mentions her Stillwater Reservoir site "#37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!"
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection, especially for trails. A Cranberry Lake visitor warns, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Limited access: Few dispersed sites accommodate RVs near Inlet. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, Meghan B. notes, "Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods. Some of the sites even have an outhouse."
Road conditions: Forest roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, J B. advises, "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."
Parking considerations: Limited turnaround space exists at most primitive sites. Josie W. shares about Cod Pond, "Site was big enough to pull our mid-size SUV down and unfold rooftop-tent, but we did have to back out in the morning; not enough room to turn around."
