Dispersed camping options near Paul Smiths, New York extend beyond the immediate vicinity into surrounding Adirondack areas. This region sits at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 feet, with cold winters and mild summers typical of the northern Adirondacks. Several designated sites require navigation of rough forest roads with limited or no signage.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Crane Pond Dispersed Site offers excellent water recreation opportunities with a unique stone cliff for fishing or swimming. A camper notes, "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12(?) feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe."
Hiking nearby trails: Ward Brook Campsite serves as a basecamp for hiking Seymour Mountain and surrounding terrain. According to a visitor, "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."
Stargazing: The limited light pollution creates opportunities for night sky viewing at most free camping sites near Paul Smiths, though trees may restrict views in some locations. At Horseshoe Lake, a reviewer mentions, "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges."
What campers like
Isolation and quiet: Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road provides a truly disconnected experience. A camper reports, "Camped here for a few days, no cell, no internet."
Waterfront access: Multiple dispersed sites offer direct lake or pond frontage with swimming opportunities. At Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, a reviewer states, "The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it!"
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife including loons, beavers, and various bird species. One camper at Crane Pond mentions, "The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well)."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require driving on unmaintained forest roads. A camper at Crane Pond Dispersed Site warns, "Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy. 4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck."
Limited supplies: The nearest substantial resupply points require significant travel. Regarding Cranberry Lake area, a reviewer advises, "The Village of Cranberry 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."
Seasonal considerations: Spring often brings mud season, making many access roads impassable. Insect activity peaks from late May through July. One visitor to the area notes, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Designated sites with facilities: Little Green Pond offers more structured camping with swim access. A visitor notes, "12 designated camping spots. Some require driving down a bumpy access road that can be muddy after a rain. Sites are on the Pond. Pond has a small beach to swim."
Water safety: Most dispersed camping areas have no lifeguards or safety equipment. Bring personal flotation devices for all family members if planning water activities.
Island camping options: For families with water transportation, island sites provide unique experiences. At Cranberry Lake, "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! 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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most free camping near Paul Smiths is unsuitable for large RVs. At Horseshoe Lake, a reviewer states, "Along Co 421, by Horseshoe Lake, there are 10-11 designated campsites. Most have fire pits. Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow."
Ground clearance concerns: High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed sites. One camper warns, "If your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground. Not fit for an RV in any capacity."
Power considerations: No hookups exist at any free camping areas near Paul Smiths. Solar setups may have limited effectiveness due to tree cover. A camper notes, "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges. Slight AT&T at earlier sites."
