Primitive camping near Mount Vision, New York provides access to several state forests with designated dispersed campsites. The region, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and small ponds, sits within the northern foothills of the Catskill Mountains at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, making seasonal preparation essential for campers exploring these remote areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground offers productive fishing from multiple access points including a boat launch with parking and dock, a carry-in kayak access, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier. "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid," notes one camper at Long Pond Campground.
Winter exploration: State forests provide year-round primitive camping options, though access becomes significantly limited during snow season. A visitor to Beals Pond State Forest reports: "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Boardwalk hiking: For an accessible nature experience without camping, the Pharsalia Woods State Forest offers unique infrastructure. "One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," explains a visitor describing the Round Pond area.
What campers like
Remote privacy: Many dispersed sites provide genuine seclusion not found at developed campgrounds. At Betty Brook Camp, one regular visitor notes: "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Winter camping access: Some areas remain accessible even during colder months, appealing to cold-weather enthusiasts. A camper at Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp shares: "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystems support varied bird and animal life. Whaupaunaucau State Forest offers "Lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to many primitive sites requires careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. A visitor to Duck Pond Campsite advises: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Limited amenities: Most sites have no facilities or utilities whatsoever. A camper at Long Pond explains: "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers... Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Stay duration limits: State forest regulations typically allow stays up to 14 days. One camper planning an extended stay notes: "I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for safety: Choose locations with some passing traffic if camping with children. One visitor at Long Pond observes: "I was initially worried about the other people camping here because I was almost immediately visited by them but the poor kids just needed to charge their phone so I obliged... People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid."
Monitoring water activities: Keep children supervised near ponds and streams. At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, a camper notes: "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)."
Tick prevention: Take precautions against ticks, especially with children playing in grassy areas. A local cautions about Whaupaunaucau State Forest: "Just beware of ticks, they are invading the region."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites accommodate only small trailers or RVs. A recent visitor to Long Pond notes: "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Local knowledge helps: Talk to residents about road conditions. A camper at Betty Brook Camp mentions: "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. I would not recommend this for large trailers."
Limited power options: Solar-dependent RVers should check tree cover. One camper explains: "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel. Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
