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Best Dispersed Camping near Potsdam, NY

2 Reviews

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Potsdam? We've got you covered. Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Potsdam, NY (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    1. Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

    2 Reviews
    •15 Photos•
    105 Saves
    Cranberry Lake, New York
    • Primitive tent sites and lean-tos are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved. If you find a tent site or lean-to with no people or gear, then you can camp there.
    • If not using a designated primitive tent site, your tent must be at least 150 feet from a water body, road, or trail. Do not camp in areas posted with "Camping Prohibited."
    • Camping for more than three nights or with 10 or more people requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. Call 518-897-1300 to get the name and contact information for the local ranger. Please observe all State Land Camping and Hiking Rules.
    • Black bears are present throughout the Adirondacks and Catskills. Campers should store all food, garbage and toiletries in a bear-resistant canister or food hang. Bear-resistant canisters are required in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness.
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • No image available

      2. Mountain Pond Road

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      4 Saves
      Paul Smiths, New York
        • No image available

          3. Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road

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          13 Saves
          Lake Clear, New York
            • No image available

              4. Jones Pond

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              9 Saves
              Rainbow Lake, New York
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              Recent Dispersed Reviews in Potsdam

              2 Reviews of 4 Potsdam Campgrounds

              • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites
                Jun. 28, 2018

                Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites

                Your Own Private Island for FREE!

                We 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.

              Guide to Potsdam

              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.

              Top Activities for Kayakers while Free Camping Near Potsdam

              • Experience stunning sunsets and excellent kayaking opportunities at Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, where you can paddle around Catamount Island and explore the surrounding waters.

              Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

              • Enjoy the scenic Curtis Pond hike, accessible from Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, which features beautiful beaver dams and offers a chance to stretch your legs after a day on the water.

              Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Potsdam, New York

              • Remember to bring your own potable water or a filtration system when visiting Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites, as this area requires you to be self-sufficient for your water needs.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • 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 4 dispersed camping locations near Potsdam, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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