Rustic camping near Pittstown, New York offers primitive options in both New York and across the Vermont border. The area sits in the foothills of the Taconic Mountains with elevations ranging from 400-1,200 feet, creating variable weather conditions throughout camping seasons. Winter camping temperatures can drop to single digits with significant snowfall accumulation on forest roads, while summer brings humid conditions that increase bug activity in wooded sites.
What to do
Hiking at Stratton Pond: Reach the Stratton Pond Shelter via a 3.75-mile winter hike from the nearest parking lot. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," reports one camper.
Biking opportunities: Forest Road 71 offers connected routes through Green Mountain National Forest. Campers at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 find it "a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain." Multiple connecting paths provide routes between dispersed sites.
Water recreation: Somerset Reservoir provides swimming and paddling options during summer months. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes a visitor to Somerset Airfield. Water activities are typically viable from late May through September.
What campers like
Open gathering spaces: The Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 features "an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center," according to one camper. These larger clearing sites accommodate group camping without feeling crowded.
Varied site privacy: Sites range from open fields to secluded forest spots. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on. There were only about 10 spots along the access road. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Winter camping options: Frozen ground creates access to normally wet sites. One winter camper at Somerset Airfield reported: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars."
What you should know
Seasonal wetness challenges: Many sites become unusable after rain. A visitor to NF 83 - riverside noted: "I've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen." Consider vehicle clearance requirements before attempting access during wet periods.
Bathroom facilities limited: Most sites have no restroom facilities. One Somerset Airfield visitor reported: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service." Visitors should pack portable toilet options or be prepared to dig catholes 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources.
Variable road quality: Forest roads deteriorate quickly with weather. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, one camper noted: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner sites: Families new to primitive camping should try Somerset Airfield first. "The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park."
High clearance vehicles recommended: Many access roads require substantial ground clearance. At NFR83 Dispersed site 1, a camper warned: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle." Standard passenger cars risk undercarriage damage on many forest roads.
Pack extra bug protection: Dense forest sites experience heavy insect activity. One camper at NFR 273 warned: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well." Consider head nets and permethrin-treated clothing in addition to repellent sprays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection timing: Many popular sites fill by Thursday for weekend camping. At NFR 273, one visitor noted: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." Midweek arrival improves site options.
Road navigation challenges: Several forest roads have misleading closure signs. One NFR 273 camper shared: "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Winter camping requirements: Winter access requires specialized equipment. A Somerset Airfield winter camper reported temperatures dropping to "8° and a windchill of -3" with "everything crusted over with a good inch of ice." Four-wheel drive, tire chains, and extreme cold weather gear become essential for winter primitive camping near Pittstown.
