Dispersed camping options near Redwood, New York offer rustic outdoor experiences in the forested areas of northern New York state. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500-1,500 feet with humid continental climate conditions featuring cold winters and mild summers. Most primitive campsites require significant preparation as they lack basic infrastructure and amenities.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping provides water access on a small, quiet lake perfect for paddling. "This is a small primitive site. No services, but a very beautiful spot. There's a small fire ring, and access to the lake for swimming or fishing," notes a reviewer.
Hiking to fire towers: Near Stillwater Reservoir, visitors can access hiking trails including the Stillwater Fire Tower trail. "This campsite is right down the road from the fire tower trail," mentions one camper. Another adds, "This site is close to the trailhead for the Stillwater firetower, an original Adirondack firetower."
Fishing: Multiple water bodies support fishing opportunities throughout the camping season. At Payne Lake Dispersed Site, anglers can use the "public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides" according to a visitor who rated the location highly.
What campers like
Privacy and isolation: Winona State Forest provides secluded camping spots. "Overall a good free quiet place to camp," writes one visitor. Another notes, "The campsite was quiet and peaceful" despite being "just feet off of Bargy Road."
Swimming opportunities: Multiple sites offer swimming access during summer months. At Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping, "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear," according to a frequent visitor who has "stayed here many times in tents and hammock tents."
Waterfront views: Many primitive sites feature water access or views. One camper describes their Stillwater Reservoir experience: "Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees."
What you should know
Difficult site identification: Finding designated camping areas can be challenging. At Winona State Forest, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Limited amenities: Plan to be completely self-sufficient. One visitor to Payne Lake Dispersed Site notes: "No amenities on-site. I'm getting two bars of Verizon signal with the help of a WeBoost."
Access challenges: Most sites require special transportation or hiking. At Sunday Lake, access requires visitors to "Take Stillwater rd. to McCarty road, the trail is 0.3 miles To Sunday lake. Space to park two cars or a small RV off the road."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for technology disconnection: Cell service is virtually nonexistent across most sites. One Stillwater visitor recommends the area "if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there."
Bring water filtration: No potable water exists at these rustic camping areas near Redwood. A camper at Stillwater advises: "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir."
Consider camping in groups: Larger sites can accommodate family gatherings. One camper at Stillwater Reservoir mentions their "site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs" during their annual week at the reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most dispersed camping areas near Redwood have restricted vehicle access. A visitor to Stillwater notes: "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached. It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite."
Prepare for primitive conditions: RVers should plan for no hookups or services. At Sunday Lake, there is only "space to park two cars or a small RV off the road" with no amenities available.
Weather considerations: Rain can impact accessibility and comfort. One camper at Winona State Forest reported: "It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful."
