Rustic camping near Remsen, New York provides access to the western Adirondack region and southern Tug Hill Plateau, areas characterized by mixed hardwood forests and numerous waterways. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer daytime highs typically reach the mid-70s to low 80s°F. Most primitive sites require visitors to pack out all trash as there are no collection services.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Stillwater Reservoir, the unusual water levels create unique fishing conditions. "The season had had unusually low water all over and it left a really unusual landscape on the beach to explore," notes Elizabeth B., who visited during challenging weather.
Hiking to fire towers: Campers staying at Stillwater can access nearby historic lookout points. One visitor mentioned, "This campsite is right down the road from the fire tower trail," making it convenient for day hikes from your camp.
Swimming in clean water: The southeastern portion of Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping offers exceptional swimming. As Elizabeth B. explains, "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear," making it ideal for cooling off on warm summer days.
What campers like
Isolation and peace: The region offers genuine solitude, especially at more remote sites. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one camper appreciated the simple setting: "Simply it's a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it."
Canoe-access campsites: Some of the best spots require watercraft to reach. At Seventh Lake Primitive Camping, Mary B. found ideal conditions: "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."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Fort Plain Lock 15, Mona M. noted, "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)," while another camper mentioned a resident peacock keeping them company.
What you should know
Variable water access: Water availability fluctuates seasonally. At Stillwater Reservoir, campers should know that "You should bring water or something to filter it from the reservoir," according to reviewer Geoff W.
First-come, first-served limitations: Competition for sites can be fierce, especially during peak season. At Blue Lagoon, "Because you can't make a reservation here sometimes there's competition for a spot," according to Elizabeth B.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary widely between sites. At North Lake Reservoir Campground, Ashlee C. found a site with "Fire pit at the site and a bathroom across the way from the first site," but other areas prohibit fires entirely.
Tips for camping with families
Look for beachfront sites: Sand beaches provide natural play areas for children. At Stillwater Reservoir, one family group found ample space: "It was so peaceful with our site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!" according to Christie M.
Check for site privacy: Some areas offer more seclusion than others. At Winona State Forest, Kevin C. found "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks," making it simple but serviceable for family use.
Prepare for emergencies: Limited cell service means families should bring emergency supplies. At Stillwater Reservoir, one camper noted, "Very limited cell service," while another mentioned the appeal of getting off the grid: "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It would recommend if you want to break away from technology because you get zero service out there."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions carefully: Many forest roads have seasonal deterioration. At Towsley Road Dispersed Camping, Noah D. advises, "When you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road," highlighting the need for clear navigation.
Limited developed facilities: RVers should prepare for self-contained camping. At Powley Road, Meghan B. observed, "Some of the sites even have an outhouse," but most locations lack even basic amenities.
Site access challenges: Most dispersed camping locations have limitations. At Stillwater Reservoir, a camper warned, "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached," making it impractical for most RV campers without additional watercraft.
