Looking for the best campgrounds near Potsdam, NY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that New York camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Potsdam, NY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
"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."
"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."
"Public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site. I'm getting two bars of Verizon signal with the help of a WeBoost. Beautiful views, peaceful and quiet."
"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."
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.
GuidePublic access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site. I'm getting two bars of Verizon signal with the help of a WeBoost. Beautiful views, peaceful and quiet.
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 Potsdam, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures without the crowds. This area offers a variety of options for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Potsdam?
Dispersed camping in the Potsdam area follows standard Adirondack Park regulations. At Little Green Pond, camping is restricted to 12 designated spots, which helps manage environmental impact. Sites are tree-covered and situated on the pond. Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road has similar designated-site restrictions. Most dispersed sites in the region require camping at established sites with existing fire rings, staying at least 150 feet from water bodies (except at designated waterfront sites), and limiting stays to 14 consecutive days. Pack-in/pack-out trash policies apply, and bear-resistant food storage is recommended. Check for seasonal fire bans before your trip.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Potsdam?
Several free dispersed camping options exist near Potsdam in the Adirondack region. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offers island camping with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Catamount Island is particularly popular for its incredible sunsets. Payne Lake Dispersed Site provides a more accessible option with a public boat ramp and parking on both sides, though it lacks amenities. Other nearby options include Little Green Pond, Polliwog Lake, and sites along Mountain Pond Road. Most of these dispersed sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early during peak season is recommended.
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Potsdam, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Potsdam, NY is Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Potsdam, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Potsdam, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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