Dispersed camping options near Kattskill Bay, New York provide remote wilderness experiences within the Adirondack region. The area around Lake George Wild Forest contains multiple free camping locations at elevations ranging from 320 to 2,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F while winter conditions can drop below freezing with substantial snowfall, requiring appropriate preparation for seasonal camping.
What to do
Hiking to elevated viewpoints: Crane Mountain Pond Campsite offers access to trails with panoramic vistas. "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I've camped at," notes camper T K.
Water activities: The ponds and lakes throughout the region provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling. At Crane Pond Dispersed Site, a stone cliff near one of the sites creates a natural recreation area. "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12(?) feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe," reports Nicole T.
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse fauna including loons, deer, and occasionally bears. "The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well)," mentions one Crane Pond camper.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The remote nature of these free camping sites near Kattskill Bay offers isolation from crowds. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, Josie W. notes, "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss... Felt private despite the road."
Natural soundscapes: Many campers appreciate the ambient sounds at these primitive sites. Taylor A. mentions at Cod Pond Pull-Off, "There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night... You can hear cars from the site but the cars can't see you-loved this!"
Rustic amenities: Most sites offer basic facilities like fire rings. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, Miccal M. comments, "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed camping sites require appropriate vehicles. Nicole T. warns about Crane Pond: "If your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground. Not fit for an RV in any capacity."
Navigation challenges: Finding these free camping areas near Kattskill Bay requires attention to detail. Taylor A. advises, "The directions in the app are accurate -but do keep in mind that the campsite is down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention. There is no service at all."
Insects: Depending on season and location, bug pressure can be significant. "The bugs were terrible," notes one camper at Cod Pond.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. In Ushers Road State Forest, a reviewer noted, "Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for comfort: Choose sites with flat terrain when possible. At Cod Pond Pull-Off, Taylor A. observes, "Ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc."
Water safety planning: Sites near water require extra supervision. The stone cliff at Crane Pond can be enjoyable but potentially hazardous for younger children without oversight.
Wildlife awareness: Teaching children about local wildlife enhances the experience. Last Light on Michigan Brook provides opportunities to observe forest animals. Thomas and James S. advise, "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Adirondack evenings can be significantly cooler than daytime temperatures, even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites in the Kattskill Bay area cannot accommodate larger RVs. Nicole T. specifically notes about Crane Pond, "Not fit for an RV in any capacity."
Turn-around space: Check site reviews for information about vehicle maneuvering space. Josie W. mentions at Cod Pond Pull-Off, "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."
Alternative options: When primitive sites won't work for your rig, consider Downed Bridge Camp where Caitlin K. advises, "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10."
