Primitive camping near Rexford, New York occurs primarily in state forests at elevations ranging from 650-950 feet. The region experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers with average July temperatures around 70°F. Most dispersed sites in the area require campers to set up at least 150 feet from water sources and trails, with no facilities available at most locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, you can fish directly from the parking area situated on the Mohawk River. "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)," notes one camper. Remember that New York state fishing licenses are required.
Mountain biking: The trails at Ushers Road State Forest are designed for bikers of all skill levels. "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side," reports one visitor. The terrain eventually transitions to swampy areas after rainfall.
Winter camping: For year-round backcountry camping near Rexford, several sites remain accessible during colder months. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, one camper noted, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!" Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that can drop below 0°F.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Despite proximity to roads, many dispersed sites offer surprising seclusion. At Betty Brook Camp, visitors appreciate the remote feeling: "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people."
Stream access: Several campsites feature direct access to moving water. Betty Brook Camp offers streamside camping where "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," according to a regular visitor. Westkill Camp in Burnt Rossman State Forest similarly offers water access with "enough room for 2 to 3 campers."
Wildlife viewing: Many sites provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot in Vermont, approximately 40 miles east of Rexford, campers enjoy diverse wildlife. "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require navigating rough terrain. At NFR 273, one camper reported: "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though." Another noted they "had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for limited or no connectivity. At Somerset Airfield, a camper noted "No garbage service, no water, no cell service." Another camper at a different site confirmed, "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp - short walk. SOS only in camp."
Site availability: Popular spots fill quickly, especially during summer weekends and holidays. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," reported one visitor at NFR 273. During peak seasons, arrive early midweek for best site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Most dispersed sites have no facilities, but some exceptions exist. Fort Plain Lock 15 provides "pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Safety considerations: Some areas become crowded during holidays and may experience disruptive behavior. At Somerset Airfield, a camper reported that their "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down...that resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond."
Weather preparedness: Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest and other higher elevation sites can experience rapid weather changes. "It was rocky getting there but super super remote - zero service," reported one camper, emphasizing the importance of proper weather gear and emergency supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Westkill Camp, a visitor noted the area has "enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet." For larger vehicles, Somerset Airfield may work better as "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Parking surfaces: Ground conditions vary significantly with weather. During wet periods, many areas become muddy and difficult to navigate. "The entrance is soft," warned one camper about Burnt Rossman State Forest, suggesting caution with heavier vehicles after rainfall.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful positioning. At Fort Plain Lock 15, a camper described, "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River," indicating that leveling blocks are essential equipment for RV campers in most dispersed sites near Rexford.
