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Best Dispersed Camping near Machias, NY

11 Reviews

Several state forests around Machias, New York offer free dispersed camping options with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Palmers Pond State Forest ranks highest among visitors, featuring grassy, flat camping areas around a small pond with established fire pits and picnic tables. According to reviews, "Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake" makes this a popular choice, though visitors should note "Do not take Palmers Pond Road" as access requires approaching from the north via West Almond Road.

Boyce State Forest provides more primitive options with hiking access to backcountry sites. The forest contains a lean-to shelter located approximately half a mile along the Finger Lakes Trail with a fire pit and privy. A recent visitor mentioned that "trail was more of a stream than a trail" during wet periods, suggesting proper footwear for access. Camp Seneca offers an alternative with designated sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables near a creek, plus a portable toilet. Several other state forests in the area, including McCarthy Hills, English Hill, and Ossian provide additional dispersed camping but with minimal or no amenities and potentially challenging access roads.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Machias, New York (10)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Machias, NY

6 Photos of 10 Machias Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Machias, NY

11 Reviews of 10 Machias Campgrounds

  • Zack B.
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Boyce State Forest

    Wet n wild

    Trail was more of a stream than a trail. You’ll spend more time beside the trail then actually on it. The campsite was a shelter off the side of the trail. It came with some firewood and cardboard to burn as well as some emergency water. Campsite was clean and came with an “air conditioned loo”. Lots of room for tents, however, most sites are not flat. Would recommend to come in dryer season or to bring rubber boots.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2019

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Favorite place to camp

    No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp

  • Lizzy K.
    Oct. 29, 2021

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Love this place!

    Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!

  • M
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Perfect campsite

    Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake. Fire pits, a table, and parking area are in place but nothing else. Lots of beavers to watch throughout the day.

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    beautiful spots near pond or in woods

    if the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots. dispersed free LNT style. no services. would stay here again.

  • Sydney M.
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Pretty but hard to find

    The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road. There are not any lights to show the sign so it’s kinda hard to find. The pond was dried up when we got there so that sad kind of a bummer. Lots of camping along the road and around the pond. Nice quiet spot

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2019

    Boyce State Forest

    If roughing it is your thing

    If roughing it is your thing this is primitive tent sites on a small pond.located on the Finger Lake Trail. If you walk/hike 1/2 mile you will find a lean-to with fire pit and privy.

  • Marjoe M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2024

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    May 5th

    The site was very nice. Clean and well maintained. I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Camp Seneca

    Quiet and secluded

    We came I to the area on a Monday and this camp was completely empty. We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains.

    This campground had several designated sites and most have a fire ring and picnic table.

    There was a porti-poty on site that had plenty of paper was pretty clean.

    We had a few hikers come through and one other camper that chose not to stay.

Guide to Machias

Dispersed camping near Machias, New York, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of primitive camping. With various locations available, campers can find serene spots to set up their tents and enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Boyce State Forest

  • Boyce State Forest features a trail that can be quite wet, so it's best to visit during drier seasons. The campsite offers a shelter with firewood and emergency water, making it a practical choice for those who enjoy a rustic experience.
  • Campers will find plenty of space for tents, although most sites are not flat, so be prepared for some uneven ground. The lack of amenities like drinking water and electric hookups means you'll need to come well-prepared.
  • Pets are allowed, making it a great option for those who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.

A serene escape at Camp Seneca for dispersed campers

  • Located next to a creek, Camp Seneca is perfect for those seeking a quiet and secluded experience. The tree canopy provides excellent cover during rain, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Several designated sites come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, enhancing the camping experience. The presence of a clean port-a-potty adds a touch of convenience to the primitive setting.
  • The area is generally peaceful, with few other campers around, allowing for a truly immersive nature experience.

Top activities while free camping near Machias

  • Hiking is a popular activity in the region, with trails leading to beautiful natural scenery. For instance, the Finger Lake Trail near Camp Seneca offers a scenic route for those looking to explore.
  • Fishing and wildlife observation are also great ways to enjoy the outdoors. The tranquil waters near Palmers Pond State Forest provide opportunities for both activities.
  • Campfires are allowed in many areas, creating the perfect atmosphere for storytelling and relaxation under the stars. Just remember to bring your own firewood, as some locations do not provide it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Machias, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Machias, NY is Boyce State Forest with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Machias, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Machias, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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