Dispersed camping near Northville, New York offers primitive backcountry sites with varying accessibility across multiple state forests. The region sits at elevations between 800-2000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines. Winter access to many sites becomes limited from November through April due to unplowed forest roads, while spring brings muddy conditions that can make sites impassable even for 4WD vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterfront campsites provide direct access to fishing. North Lake Reservoir Campground features "32 sites all around the lake" where anglers can fish directly from their campsite, as noted by visitor J B.
Mountain biking: The trail systems near Ushers Road State Forest connect to bicycle-friendly paths. One visitor reported, "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."
Paddling excursions: Seventh Lake Primitive Camping offers excellent canoe-in sites. A camper explained, "We accessed the sites by water on a canoe trip. There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out."
Wildlife observation: The parking area at Fort Plain Lock 15 provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing."
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides secluded camping with water features. A reviewer noted, "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."
Numbered sites with privacy: Campers appreciate the organization at Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest where "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," according to a recent visitor.
Sand bars and swimming: Seventh Lake Primitive Camping features natural beach areas. One camper shared, "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited."
Waterfront wake-up views: The scenery at North Lake Reservoir impresses first-time visitors. One camper reported, "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."
What you should know
Fire regulations vary: While most dispersed sites permit fires in established rings, some areas have restrictions. At Cod Pond, a visitor mentioned, "There is a firepit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not."
Cell service limitations: Network coverage varies significantly by location. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, a camper warned, "There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly." Another noted, "No AT&T cell service in this area."
Seasonal hunting activity: Fall brings hunters to many dispersed camping areas. One visitor to Powley Road observed, "Stayed in October, so when I left early the next morning, I passed a lot of hunters that had camped along the road, too."
Road conditions: Forest roads require careful navigation. A Cod Pond visitor advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established facilities: Some dispersed sites offer basic amenities. At Fort Plain Lock 15, "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."
Consider noise factors: Sound levels vary significantly between sites. At Fort Plain, one camper noted, "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by. If you need quiet, keep on moving."
Bug preparation: Insects can be intense at certain sites. A camper at Cod Pond warned, "The bugs were terrible," highlighting the importance of bringing proper repellent and netting for family camping trips.
Water safety planning: Waterfront sites require extra vigilance. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, visitors note that "Some are walk in right on the lake," requiring families with children to consider water safety preparations.
Tips from RVers
Parking surface assessment: The limited dispersed camping options for RVs near Northville require careful site selection. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, RVers should "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Space for turning around: Vehicle maneuverability varies significantly between sites. At Cod Pond, one camper reported their 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."
Road navigation challenges: Forest roads require cautious driving. A visitor to Powley Road noted, "The road is in good condition," but many other forest roads in the region require high clearance vehicles.
