Best Dispersed Camping near Owls Head, NY

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Owls Head? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Owls Head, NY (6)

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Recent Dispersed Reviews in Owls Head

3 Reviews of 6 Owls Head Campgrounds


  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Brook Campsite
    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.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    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.


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 Ward Brook Campsite 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 6 dispersed camping locations near Owls Head, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.