Primitive camping near Piseco, New York provides access to remote wilderness areas within the southern Adirondack region at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,500 feet. The forest terrain features a mix of northern hardwoods and conifers surrounding numerous lakes and streams. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F to 80°F with winter dropping well below freezing, often bringing significant snowfall that restricts access to many dispersed sites.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: The North Lake Reservoir Campground offers paddling access to a pristine lake surrounded by 32 primitive campsites. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," reports camper J B., who advises: "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Wildlife viewing: Remote camping areas provide opportunities for spotting native Adirondack wildlife including deer, foxes, and various bird species. According to Christie M. who camped at Stillwater Reservoir, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family."
Hiking: Several dispersed camping areas connect to hiking trails. Crane Mountain Pond Campsite requires a steep hike but rewards with panoramic views. As camper T K. notes, "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I've camped at."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the isolation offered at Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off sites. Josie W. describes one location as "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss... Felt private despite the road."
Waterfront access: Camping directly alongside water ranks highly among visitors. Elizabeth B. describes her experience at Stillwater Reservoir: "Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees. The season had had unusually low water all over and it left a really unusual landscape on the beach to explore."
Natural swimming areas: Multiple dispersed sites feature swimming opportunities in clean Adirondack waters. Mary B. shared her experience at Seventh Lake Primitive Camping: "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. Taylor A. explains about Cod Pond: "The site has its own private road. A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV."
Navigation challenges: Finding unmarked or minimally signed sites can be difficult. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, Meghan B. advises: "Had a quiet and peaceful stay. Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods."
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability varies significantly between locations. Meghan B. notes about Powley Road, "Some of the sites even have an outhouse," while many other sites have no facilities whatsoever.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings hunting activity to many areas. Meghan B. observed at Powley Road: "Stayed in October, so when I left early the next morning, I passed a lot of hunters that had camped along the road, too."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with safe water access for children. Christie M. shares about Stillwater Reservoir: "We enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family. It was so peaceful with our site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!"
Time management: Plan extra travel time as access roads can be challenging. Brendan M. notes about Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest: "It was rocky getting there but super super remote - zero service. Great space for my jeep and honestly you could fit a LARGE RV."
Entertainment options: Pack games and activities for children as amenities are minimal. Geoff W. advises about Stillwater: "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir. I believe all the sites have privy boxes on them."
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles but require careful navigation. At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, Mona M. advises: "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right... The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River."
Services availability: Almost no primitive sites near Piseco offer RV hookups. The L. notes about Fort Plain Lock 15: "Simply it's a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by."
Size restrictions: Most forest roads have limited clearance and turning radius. While speaking about site #6 at Cod Pond, Taylor A. reports: "Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV. There is a firepit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents."
