Dispersed camping options surround Riparius, New York, scattered throughout the Adirondack forest lands at elevations ranging from 800-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cool nights in the 50s, while fall brings crisp 40-60°F days. Most rustic sites require self-sufficiency with wilderness regulations enforced by forest rangers who patrol the area weekly.
What to do
Hiking with mountain views: Crane Mountain offers a moderate 2.8-mile trail with 1,150 feet of elevation gain. At the summit, wilderness campers find panoramic vistas stretching across the southern Adirondacks. As one visitor to Crane Mountain Pond Campsite reported, "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I've camped at."
Fishing for native species: Multiple ponds and streams near Riparius contain brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch accessible to anglers. The stone cliff area at Crane Pond provides excellent fishing access with space to cast. According to campers, the fishing spots are generally uncrowded even during summer weekends.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times near water sources. Loons are frequently visible during daylight hours at Crane Pond, along with deer, beavers, and various bird species. Quiet observation areas exist along most waterways.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Many sites offer privacy while maintaining reasonable access. A camper at Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off noted, "Decent site right off of the 'main' road. 'Main' because it was quiet. Easy to access via a short dirt road, but also easy to miss." This balance between access and isolation appeals to wilderness campers.
Water proximity: Several rustic camping areas near Riparius include riverside or lakeside locations. The sound of running water creates natural white noise at night, with one Cod Pond visitor mentioning, "There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night."
Star visibility: The minimal light pollution around Riparius creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. The remote locations offer unobstructed celestial observation opportunities, especially during new moon phases when stars appear most brilliant.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads demand high-clearance vehicles with appropriate tires. At Crane Pond Dispersed Site, a visitor cautions, "Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy... if your vehicle isn't lifted you may come out with a ding or two from rocks and other things jutting out of the ground."
Navigation challenges: GPS reliability varies significantly throughout the region, with paper maps recommended as backups. Some unmarked turnoffs can be difficult to spot, as noted about Cod Pond: "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."
Site selection factors: Terrain at many sites appears level but contains subtle slopes that become apparent when setting up tents. A Cod Pond camper observed, "The site has its own private road... Plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies seasonally but remains significant from May through September. The riverside locations often experience higher mosquito populations, with one camper reporting, "The bugs were terrible." Bringing appropriate repellents, nets, and protective clothing is essential.
Limited turnaround space: Many access roads lack adequate space for vehicle maneuvering. At Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest, a visitor found, "It was rocky getting there but super super remote - zero service. Great space for my jeep and honestly you could fit a LARGE RV." However, other sites like Cod Pond have constraints: "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."
Natural features for exploration: Water features provide natural recreation areas for supervised children. Crane Pond includes a distinct feature described by a visitor: "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12(?) feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe."
Tips from RVers
Campsite access limitations: Most dispersed sites around Riparius have significant RV restrictions. A camper at Ward Brook Campsite found basic amenities: "Great campsite with a nice lean-to. Fire pit, picnic table, and a privy." However, sites accessible to larger vehicles remain limited.
Size restrictions: Access roads frequently limit vehicle length and width. A Crane Pond visitor emphasized, "Not fit for an RV in any capacity. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles."
Parking logistics: When RV access is possible, advance scouting helps determine viable options. One visitor found surprising space at Bear Slide: "Great space for my jeep and honestly you could fit a LARGE RV." However, most dispersed sites restrict RVs to parking areas only, requiring tent camping separate from vehicles.
