Best Dispersed Camping near Paul Smiths, NY
Looking for the best dispersed camping near Paul Smiths? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Paul Smiths, NY (12)
2. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
Cranberry Lake, New York2 Reviews•15 Photos•102 Saves- Primitive tent sites and lean-tos are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved. If you find a tent site or lean-to with no people or gear, then you can camp there.
- If not using a designated primitive tent site, your tent must be at least 150 feet from a water body, road, or trail. Do not camp in areas posted with "Camping Prohibited."
- Camping for more than three nights or with 10 or more people requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. Call 518-897-1300 to get the name and contact information for the local ranger. Please observe all State Land Camping and Hiking Rules.
- Black bears are present throughout the Adirondacks and Catskills. Campers should store all food, garbage and toiletries in a bear-resistant canister or food hang. Bear-resistant canisters are required in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
3. Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
Long Lake, New York4 Reviews•10 Photos•76 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
$18 - $23 / night
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Paul Smiths
7 Reviews of 12 Paul Smiths Campgrounds
Alex R.
Guide
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.
Noah D.
Traveler
Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
Truck camping heaven
we came here for a night and stayed at the camp 76 by the lake. it was beautiful. definitely top 5 best campgrounds we have ever been to. they had a picnic bench and an outhouse in good condition. great visibility at night and of the lake
- Karolee G.
ScoutForked Lake Adirondack Preserve
Best Primative Camping
We were unfortunately able to get a spot on the lake, also due to us having dogs that aren’t fond of riding in kayaks yet. We ended up camping out right past spot 6 on North Point Road. Loved it. Us and the dogs. Primitive camping at Forked Lake is always the best.
- CCaitie S.Guide
Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve
Wild
This campground was beautiful. We boated in to our site with a kayak and a canoe with our supplies. We went during peak black fly season and got eaten alive though and decided to pack it up early. There was a bear den close to our site that was pretty cool.
- Kristal Ann F.Traveler
Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
Beautiful Adirondack camping
Beautiful campgrounds... clean.. friendly..
amazing lake for kayaking and boating.
sites not crowded together.
Shari G.
LegendCranberry 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.
Sylvia V.ScoutForked Lake Adirondack Preserve
Island camping at its best, Staff is friendly and helpful.
Camped over many times and paddle the lake every chance I get!
Guide to Paul Smiths
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Paul Smiths, New York, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Dispersed campers should check out Ward Brook Campsite
- Located at the base of Seymour Mountain, Ward Brook Campsite features a lean-to, fire pit, and picnic table, making it a comfortable spot for a night under the stars.
- The campsite is surrounded by ample water sources, perfect for those who enjoy fishing or simply relaxing by the water.
- With no reservations required, this site allows for spontaneous trips into the wilderness.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Paul Smiths, New York
- For those looking for a unique experience, Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offers the chance to camp on Catamount Island, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and a sense of privacy.
- Remember to bring your own potable water or a filtration system, as many dispersed sites, like Cranberry Lake, do not provide drinking water.
- Be prepared for the elements; while some sites have amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, others may require you to be fully self-sufficient.
Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road for dispersed campers
- Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road is a drive-in location that allows for easy access to beautiful lake views and outdoor activities.
- This area is perfect for those who enjoy kayaking or canoeing, as the surrounding waters provide ample opportunities for exploration.
- With no permits required, you can enjoy a hassle-free camping experience while soaking in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Paul Smiths, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Paul Smiths, NY is Ward Brook Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Paul Smiths, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Paul Smiths, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.