Best Dispersed Camping near Owls Head, NY

Dispersed camping in the Adirondack region surrounding Owls Head, New York includes several primitive sites along forest roads and lakeshores. Little Green Pond, Polliwog Lake, Mountain Pond Road, and Jones Pond provide opportunities for backcountry camping with minimal amenities. These designated sites are situated on public lands within the Adirondack Park, where camping follows specific regulations regarding site location and duration of stay.

Access routes to these dispersed campsites vary considerably in quality and condition. Several roads may require slow navigation due to mud and rough terrain, particularly after rainfall. Most sites at Little Green Pond require driving down bumpy access roads that can become challenging in wet conditions. Similarly, Horseshoe Lake camping areas along County Road 421 have rough roads that require careful driving. Primitive conditions prevail throughout the region, with most sites lacking drinking water, restrooms, or other amenities. Campers need to pack in all supplies and practice proper waste management.

The camping experience near Owls Head emphasizes solitude and natural surroundings typical of Adirondack backcountry. Sites at Little Green Pond feature "peaceful spots under the pines" with 12 designated camping spots along the pond, which has a small beach for swimming. Connectivity is minimal in most areas, with one visitor noting "no cell, no internet" at Polliwog Lake, providing a truly disconnected experience. Horseshoe Lake camping areas are "pretty shaded" according to visitors, which may limit solar power options but offers natural cooling during summer months. Ward Brook Campsite, located further south near Seymour Mountain, provides a lean-to structure, fire pit, picnic table, and privy, with "plenty of water around" according to visitor reports.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Owls Head, New York (9)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Owls Head, NY

5 Photos of 9 Owls Head Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Owls Head, NY

4 Reviews of 9 Owls Head Campgrounds


  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Kristal Ann F.
    Apr. 27, 2019

    Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    Beautiful Adirondack camping

    Beautiful campgrounds... clean.. friendly..

    amazing lake for kayaking and boating.

    sites not crowded together.


Guide to Owls Head

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Owls Head, New York, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Owls Head

  • Enjoy kayaking and boating at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, where the clean and friendly environment makes for a perfect day on the water.
  • Hike the scenic trails around Ward Brook Campsite, which offers a great lean-to and picnic areas, ideal for a relaxing day in nature.
  • Experience the stunning sunsets while camping on Catamount Island at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, where each site features a picnic table and fire ring.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Owls Head, New York

  • Bring your own potable water or a filter, especially when staying at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, as water sources may not be readily available.
  • Be prepared for the elements at Ward Brook Campsite, where amenities are minimal, but the natural beauty and tranquility make it worthwhile.
  • Pack bug spray for your hikes, particularly around Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, where mosquitoes can be prevalent on the trails.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road

  • Experience the peaceful surroundings at Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road, which is accessible by drive-in and offers a true escape into nature.
  • Enjoy the freedom of camping without permits at Mountain Pond Road, where you can set up camp and immerse yourself in the wilderness.
  • Take advantage of the drive-in access at Jones Pond, making it easy to bring along all your camping gear for a comfortable stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Owls Head, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Owls Head, NY is Little Green Pond with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Owls Head, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.