Dispersed camping areas near Lake Clear, New York offer primitive outdoor experiences throughout the Adirondack Park, where elevations range from 1,500 to 1,800 feet. Seasonal considerations impact access substantially, with spring mud season making many forest roads challenging while winter brings complete closures to certain sites. State land regulations govern camping practices, with specific rules about site selection and duration.
What to do
Hiking access: Ward Brook Campsite provides a strategic base for hikers tackling nearby Adirondack peaks. According to Alex R., it offers "a nice lean-to, fire pit, picnic table, and a privy. A bit further you will find some tent spots too. Plenty of water around."
Kayaking routes: Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offer water-based adventure opportunities with island camping. Shari G. reports, "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."
Fishing spots: The primitive sites around the water bodies provide excellent fishing access. At Crane Pond Dispersed Site, Nicole T. notes 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."
What campers like
Privacy levels: The backcountry sites throughout the area offer varying degrees of isolation. One camper at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites enthusiastically shared their experience: "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for stargazing, though campers at Horseshoe Lake note practical limitations: "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges. Slight AT&T at earlier sites."
Rustic amenities: Some sites offer basic facilities despite their remote nature. Rebecca B. reports that "Along Co 421, by Horseshoe Lake, there are 10-11 designated campsites. Most have fire pits. Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow."
What you should know
Water requirements: Free camping near Lake Clear requires water planning. At Cranberry Lake, Shari G. advises, "You will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake, so don't forget your water filter."
Vehicle restrictions: Many dispersed camping areas have challenging access roads. At Little Green Pond, Lo M. warns that "Some require driving down a bumpy access road that can be muddy after a rain."
Wildlife considerations: Insects can be problematic during warm months. At Cranberry Lake, a camper notes, "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 for camping with families
Swimming options: Several sites offer swimming access for children. Lo M. describes Little Green Pond as having "12 designated camping spots. Sites are on the Pond. Pond has a small beach to swim. Tree covered sites."
Connectivity planning: Free camping near Lake Clear means limited communications. At Polliwog Lake, Debbie T. confirms it is "Very relaxing. Camped here for a few days, no cell, no internet."
Supply runs: Remote locations require advance planning. For Cranberry Lake campers, one visitor advises, "The Village of Cranberry Lake has some supplies, but not much except the very basics at the general store. You'll need to head to Star Lake or Tupper Lake for anything of significance."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Dispersed camping roads often present challenges for larger vehicles. Nicole T. states plainly about Crane Pond: "Not fit for an RV in any capacity. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles."
Power solutions: Without hookups, alternative power sources are necessary. Rebecca B. notes at Horseshoe Lake that "the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges."
Parking limitations: Site accessibility varies widely. At Crane Pond, "the parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles. There is an outhouse near that lot and a foot bridge off to the right, leading to Pharaoh Mtn Trail."
