Dispersed camping near Peru, New York offers primitive sites throughout the Adirondack Mountain region at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. These free or low-cost camping options typically require campers to be self-sufficient with basic wilderness skills. Most areas experience typical northeastern seasonal variations with summer highs around 75°F and winter temperatures often below freezing.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Ward Brook Campsite provides convenient access to Seymour Mountain hiking trails. According to Alex R., it's a "great campsite at the bottom of Seymour mountain" with "plenty of water around" making it ideal for hikers needing to refill water supplies.
Swimming in natural settings: Multiple dispersed camping locations offer water access for swimming during summer months. At Little Green Pond, Lo M. notes the "pond has a small beach to swim" with "tree covered sites" providing shade after water activities.
Streamside relaxation: Several sites feature creekside or riverside locations with natural water features. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, Sigrid O. appreciates the "gorgeous stream/river" and "love[s] the river sounds" that create a natural soundtrack for relaxation.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Lincoln Dispersed Camping in Vermont offers remarkable isolation despite being just miles from town. Mike B. describes how "down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - yards away from gorgeous running water" with "the seclusion of this spot is what makes it."
Easy water access: Austin Brook features multiple streamside sites. Thomas and James S. note "there's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings."
Natural surroundings: The densely wooded settings create immersive forest experiences. J W. at Lincoln Dispersed Camping found "great trees for hammocks" and observed "lots of mushrooms" during walks along nearby forest paths.
What you should know
Site accessibility varies: Road conditions can significantly impact vehicle access to camping areas. J W. notes that FR 291 "is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack standard campground amenities. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, Chris D. describes "a small handful of camp sites, some picnic tables" with an entrance that can be "a little steep and tricky in the winter" requiring "AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance."
Regulation changes: Some areas have fluctuating camping regulations. Regarding Route 100, Helen P. observed "signs say No Camping" despite seeing "someone camping for at least a week," suggesting "it's not that strict" though officially designated as day-use only.
Seasonal moisture concerns: Weather impacts camping comfort significantly. Melissa M. at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 reported sites were "beautiful but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out" - an important consideration during rainy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options: For families seeking minimal shelter without carrying tents, Ward Brook Campsite offers structural support. Alex R. describes "a nice lean-to" with "fire pit, picnic table, and a privy" making it more comfortable for groups with children.
Swimming options for kids: Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road provides lake access appropriate for family swimming. Debbie T. found it "very relaxing" though notes there's "no cell, no internet" - important for families requiring connectivity.
Security considerations: Take precautions with valuables at remote sites. Melissa M. warns "make sure to lock your valuables" after having "Jackery, Solar panels & toilet stolen" during their stay - especially important with family camping equipment.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV spaces: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller vehicles only. Miccal M. noted when visiting Austin Brook that it has "minimal parking" despite "great location, easy access" for those with appropriate vehicles.
Maneuverability concerns: Forest roads often restrict larger RVs. Helen P. observed at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 that "you couldn't turn around easily" on "little gravel paths" leading to individual sites, making advanced scouting necessary for RV campers.
Weekend capacity limitations: Popular sites fill quickly during peak periods. Gerald P. found FR25 has a "small number of sites" making advance planning essential, while Helen P. noted "all the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately)" during summer weekends.
