Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Placid, NY

Want to go dispersed camping near Lake Placid? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Lake Placid just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Placid, NY (12)

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Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Lake Placid

7 Reviews of 12 Lake Placid Campgrounds


  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Brook Campsite
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Ward Brook Campsite

    Great campsite at the bottom of Seymour mountain

    Great campsite with 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.

  • Noah D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve

    Truck camping heaven

    we came here for a night and stayed at the camp 76 by the lake. it was beautiful. definitely top 5 best campgrounds we have ever been to. they had a picnic bench and an outhouse in good condition. great visibility at night and of the lake

  • Karolee G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve

    Best Primative Camping

    We were unfortunately able to get a spot on the lake, also due to us having dogs that aren’t fond of riding in kayaks yet. We ended up camping out right past spot 6 on North Point Road. Loved it. Us and the dogs. Primitive camping at Forked Lake is always the best.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
    Apr. 27, 2019

    Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve

    Wild

    This campground was beautiful. We boated in to our site with a kayak and a canoe with our supplies. We went during peak black fly season and got eaten alive though and decided to pack it up early. There was a bear den close to our site that was pretty cool.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Jun. 28, 2018

    Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    Your Own Private Island for FREE!

    We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. 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, so don’t forget your water filter.

    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 and there are some incredible beaver dams along the way. 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! The millions upon millions of dragonflies help make up for the mosquitoes!

    The Village of Cranberry Lake (which is accessible from the 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.

    Backcountry camping is first come, first served…no reservations necessary or even possible. No permit is needed. The only fee is if you want to park your vehicle in the state park while you are camping on the island, it is $8 per day.


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Guide to Lake Placid

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Placid, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a true wilderness experience. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Lake Placid

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Ward Brook Campsite, located at the base of Seymour Mountain, offering trails that lead to stunning views.
  • Fishing opportunities abound in the nearby waters, making Crane Pond Dispersed Site an ideal location for anglers looking to cast a line in a peaceful setting.
  • For those who enjoy photography, the picturesque landscapes surrounding Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road provide countless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Adirondacks.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The stunning vistas from the trails near Jones Pond offer breathtaking views that are perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere at Mountain Pond Road, where the surrounding nature creates a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
  • The unique geological features and wildlife around Vanderwacker Mountain Wild Forest make it a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lake Placid, New York

  • Always check for water availability before heading to Lake Durant off Old Route 28, as some sites may not have potable water sources.
  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience at Ward Brook Campsite, which means packing light and ensuring you have all necessary supplies for your stay.
  • Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles, especially in areas like Gooley Club Road, where preserving the beauty of the landscape is essential for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lake Placid, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lake Placid, NY is Ward Brook Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lake Placid, NY?

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Lake Placid, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.