The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paul Smiths. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Paul Smiths is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Paul Smiths. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"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. Tree covered sites."
"Plenty of water around."
"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."
"Ours had an extensive pile of dry wood, too. There is a decent privy tucked back in the woods. Bring your own TP though! "
"amazing lake for kayaking and boating.
sites not crowded together."
"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."
LegendWe 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.
ScoutPlease 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. From experience - 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. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles. There is an outhouse near that lot and a foot bridge off to the right, leading to Pharaoh Mtn Trail.
If you're staying to camp there are (9) sites only accessible by boat (I haven't found a map that numbers/letters them), except the one right by the parking lot. There is a trail leading to that one. My family and I have never used the other sites so I can only attest to the one which is freaking GREAT. 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. Stone fireplace on site. The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well).
GuideGreat 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.
TravelerBeautiful campgrounds... clean.. friendly..
amazing lake for kayaking and boating.
sites not crowded together.
TravelerCamped here for a few days, no cell, no internet
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.
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 Little Green Pond 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 14 dispersed camping locations near Paul Smiths, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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