Dispersed camping near Middle Grove, New York provides primitive overnight options across several state forests and public lands. The Adirondack region's southern edge offers elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs averaging in the mid-70s to low 80s.
What to do
**Water activities: Near Somerset Airfield, campers can enjoy Somerset Reservoir for fishing and paddling. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one visitor.
**Hiking opportunities: Mountain trails provide exercise and views within walking distance of some rustic sites. At Crane Mountain Pond Campsite, a visitor reports, "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I've camped at."
**Mountain biking: Some forest areas offer cycling paths with varied terrain. "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side," reports a camper at Ushers Road State Forest.
What campers like
**Privacy levels: Many sites offer secluded spots despite roadside locations. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure. Was a great spot!"
**Variety of terrain: The region offers diverse camping environments from riverside to mountain settings. A visitor at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot notes, "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
**Natural sounds: Many campsites feature natural water features that enhance the camping experience. One camper at Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off shared, "There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night."
What you should know
**Road conditions: Access to primitive sites varies widely, requiring different vehicle capabilities. "The road itself was in great condition though. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck," reports one NFR 273 camper.
**Site limitations: Some areas have restrictions on where you can camp. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, "Had a quiet and peaceful stay. Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods."
**Sanitation concerns: Without facilities, improper waste disposal can be an issue. A George D Aiken Wilderness camper reported, "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
**Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. A winter camper at Somerset Airfield shared, "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow."
Tips for camping with families
**River access: Select sites with safe water features for children. At Powley Road, "Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site."
**Insect protection: Forested sites may have significant insect populations. A camper at NFR 273 noted, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
**Site selection: For families, larger open areas provide better space for activities. At George D Aiken Wilderness, a visitor found, "We found a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private."
Tips for RVers
**Turning space: Consider vehicle maneuverability when selecting sites. At Cod Pond, a camper noted, "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."
**Airfield options: Somerset Airfield offers more open spaces suitable for larger vehicles. "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
**Bathroom access: Limited facilities exist at select locations. At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, "At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter."
