Searching for the best camping near Lake George, NY? Lake George is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Lake George, NY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
"After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I’ve camped at."
"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."
"Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy. 4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck."
"This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
"But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... You don't even have to go to fire road 30."
"Great location for a small group to camp at. Can't wait to go back. The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive. "
"It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park."
"I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning."
"One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."
"There are a few spots around you can park at. I chose a more sunny and open spot with less trees. So there's more options. It's very quiet definitely check it out."
"Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center. We had this all to ourselves in our Bean teardrop. "
"The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers. It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd. There weren't many mosquitoes either. "
TravelerDecent 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. We only saw sites 3 and 6 marked and took #6. There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night. 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. Felt private despite the road.
GuideThis trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.
About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.
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.
TravelerHighly Reccomend! 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.
This site is campsite 6 and very private (I believe there must be others located close by). The site has it’s own private road. A car is not reccomended. Possible to turn around but you definitley need a smaller suv. There is a firepit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc. You can hear cars from the site but the cars can’t see you-loved this! The sound of the cars from the main highway is something I got used to quick. The site is mostly shaded-the sun shines through a bit but not much.
There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night. The bugs were terrible.
LegendThe Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free
RangerOnly the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere.
Campsites are listed as disbursed but there are only 7 trees to separate 9 camp sites. The campsites are all next to the road and have fire circles.
There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors.
LegendEvery time I've driven up Bingo to find a spot I end up leaving the area and going somewhere else. The sites are small and close to the road. Being primitive sites there are no facilities. You will find fire rings at each site though.
RangerEnjoyed the stunning babbling brook and resevoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night. I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning. It's great to see families camping. There are pit toilets. AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here.
LegendI've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen. This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross.
The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure.
Being a primitive site there is only a fire ring here.
GuideEasy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center. We had this all to ourselves in our Bean teardrop.
Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT.
Pretty quiet during our stay, plenty of dispersed sites along 71 further south.
Only reason for 4 stars is the lack of any long distance views from the site itself.
2 bars of USCellular LTE
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake George, New York, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping around Lake George, Colorado?
Dispersed camping options around Lake George include Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, accessible via a short dirt road that's easy to miss if you're not paying attention. The sites are marked with numbers (like #3 and #6) and offer riverside camping. Another option is Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest, which requires hiking in. For those seeking more remote experiences, forest roads in the surrounding national forest areas typically offer numerous pull-offs for dispersed camping. Just remember these sites have no designated facilities and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are there any dispersed camping restrictions or permits required at Lake George?
Dispersed camping around Lake George typically follows standard Forest Service regulations. At sites like Somerset Airfield, camping is free but subject to maximum stay limits (usually 14 days). Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, though most sites have established fire rings that should be used when fires are permitted. During peak seasons like July 4th, areas can become crowded with sometimes rowdy activity. When camping at Downed Bridge Camp, be aware that popular spots fill quickly on weekends. Always check with the Pike National Forest office for current regulations, as rules can change seasonally based on fire danger and other conditions.
What amenities are available at Lake George dispersed camping sites?
Dispersed camping sites around Lake George are primitive with minimal amenities. At Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site, you'll find small sites with fire rings but no facilities. Similarly, NF 83 - riverside offers a nice clearing near the river but no amenities. Most dispersed sites provide fire rings at each location, but you should be prepared to pack in your own water, pack out all trash, and handle waste responsibly. There are no picnic tables, developed water sources, or garbage collection. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent, so plan accordingly for communication needs.
Is Lake George dispersed camping suitable for RVs and trailers?
RV and trailer accessibility varies widely at Lake George dispersed camping areas. Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 offers an open circle capable of handling multiple rigs, making it suitable for larger vehicles. Meanwhile, Green Mountain National Forest FR71 provides free camping that can accommodate some RVs. However, many dispersed sites have rough, narrow access roads with limited turnaround space. Road conditions can deteriorate after rain or snow. Before bringing an RV or trailer, scout ahead if possible or check recent reviews on The Dyrt for current road conditions. Larger rigs should stick to more established forest roads rather than remote sites.
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