Dispersed camping near Raquette Lake, New York offers solitary backcountry experiences within the western Adirondack wilderness. Sites typically sit at elevations between 1,700-2,100 feet, creating cool evening temperatures even during summer months. Winter access requires four-wheel drive vehicles or snowmobiles as most secondary roads remain unplowed.
What to do
Paddle to island sites: Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites provide water-accessible camping on private islands. "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," reports Shari G., who adds that the island offers "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."
Hike nearby trails: From Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping, campers can access the Stillwater firetower. According to Elizabeth B., "This site is close to the trailhead for the Stillwater firetower, an original Adirondack firetower." The tower trail provides panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding wilderness.
Swimming: Many dispersed sites offer direct water access. At Blue Lagoon, "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear," notes Elizabeth B. Water temperatures remain cold through early summer, typically warming to comfortable swimming conditions by mid-July.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides privacy despite proximity to roads. Taylor A. notes, "You can hear cars from the site but the cars can't see you-loved this! The sound of the cars from the main highway is something I got used to quick." Sites typically accommodate 2-3 tents with natural boundaries.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently report diverse wildlife sightings. At Stillwater Reservoir, Christie M. shares, "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family." The early morning hours (5-7am) offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Freedom from technology: Sam T. appreciates the digital detox at Stillwater Reservoir: "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self. Would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there."
What you should know
Access requirements: Most dispersed sites require specific transportation methods. At Seventh Lake Primitive Camping, Mary B. explains, "We accessed the sites by water on a canoe trip. There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out." Sites often require 30-60 minutes of paddling from boat launches.
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at most locations. Geoff W. advises Stillwater visitors, "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir. I believe all the site have privy boxes on them." Campfire regulations permit fires only in established rings.
Navigation challenges: Finding sites can prove difficult without GPS coordinates. At Cod Pond, Taylor A. warns, "The directions in the app are accurate -but do keep in mind that the campsite is down a dirt road which is well hidden from the main road if you aren't paying close attention. There is no service at all."
Tips for camping with families
Choose lake-access sites: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers family-friendly options. J B. notes, "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean." These lakefront sites provide natural entertainment for children with shallow water entry points.
Bug protection essential: Insect activity varies by location and season. Taylor A. warns Cod Pond visitors, "The bugs were terrible." For hiking trails, Shari G. advises, "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!"
Weather preparation: Temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night are common. Ashlee C. describes North Lake Reservoir: "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake." Pack additional layers as nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s even during summer.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most dispersed camping areas near Raquette Lake restrict vehicle size. At Horseshoe Lake, Rebecca B. advises, "Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow." Sites typically accommodate vehicles under 20 feet in length.
Power considerations: Solar charging proves challenging at most sites. Rebecca B. notes at Horseshoe Lake, "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges." Generator use restrictions vary by location but generally prohibit operation between 10pm-7am.
Vehicle positioning: Space constraints require strategic parking. At Cod Pond, Josie W. explains, "Site was big enough to pull our mid-size SUV down and unfold rooftop-tent, but we did have to back out in the morning; not enough room to turn around." Consider vehicle turning radius before committing to narrow access roads.
