Best Dispersed Camping near Riparius, NY

Primitive camping sites dot the forests and wild lands surrounding Riparius, New York, particularly in the Adirondack region. Several dispersed camping areas can be found within reasonable driving distance, including Crane Pond Dispersed Site, Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, and Crane Mountain Pond Campsite. These free, primitive sites are typically located on public forest land with minimal to no facilities, allowing campers to experience the natural environment with fewer restrictions than established campgrounds.

Many access roads to these dispersed sites require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. The road to Crane Pond, for instance, is not maintained and becomes very muddy in wet conditions, requiring 4WD vehicles. A recent visitor noted, "4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck." Cell service is virtually nonexistent in many areas, with multiple reviews mentioning "no Verizon cell service" or "no AT&T service," so travelers should plan accordingly. Some sites are only accessible by boat or hiking trails, while others offer drive-in access via dirt roads. Most dispersed camping in this region follows the standard 14-day camping limit common on public lands.

These primitive sites provide authentic Adirondack wilderness experiences with varying levels of privacy and natural features. Cod Pond offers sites that feel secluded despite proximity to roads, with one camper describing their site as "private despite the road" with "access to the river down a semi-steep bank." Crane Pond sites include one accessible by trail from the parking area and several others only reachable by boat, offering additional seclusion. Many sites feature established fire rings, though fire regulations vary seasonally. Terrain can be challenging, as one visitor mentioned that the ground "may look flat but when sleeping is definitely not." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with loons commonly seen and heard around Crane Pond according to visitor reports.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Riparius, New York (15)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Riparius, NY

4 Photos of 15 Riparius Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Riparius, NY

8 Reviews of 15 Riparius Campgrounds


  • Josie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

    Private Campsite

    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. We only saw sites 3 and 6 marked and took #6. There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night. 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. Felt private despite the road.

  • Taylor A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

    Adirondack Camping Trip

    Highly Reccomend! 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.

    This site is campsite 6 and very private (I believe there must be others located close by). The site has it’s own private road. A car is not reccomended. Possible to turn around but you definitley need a smaller suv. There is a firepit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not. Plenty of trees for hammocks etc. 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. The site is mostly shaded-the sun shines through a bit but not much.

    There is a river down the hill from the campsite which helps keep it fairly cool at night. The bugs were terrible.

  • Nicole T.
    May. 13, 2025

    Crane Pond Dispersed Site

    4WD Required But Worth It

    Please note Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy. 4WD is required, if you go back there without it your day is gonna suck. From experience - 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. 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. There is an outhouse near that lot and a foot bridge off to the right, leading to Pharaoh Mtn Trail. 

    If you're staying to camp there are (9) sites only accessible by boat (I haven't found a map that numbers/letters them), except the one right by the parking lot. There is a trail leading to that one. My family and I have never used the other sites so I can only attest to the one which is freaking GREAT. 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. Stone fireplace on site. The view right there is beautiful and at night you can hear the loons (visible during the day as well).

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    Site 4

    Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site. Occasionally you will get the yahoo that speeds by and makes a dust cloud but otherwise it’s great. There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly,

  • T K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2022

    Crane Mountain Pond Campsite

    Gorgeous sunset views

    After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set. One of the nicest places I’ve camped at.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    Powley Road

    Had a quiet and peaceful stay. Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods. Some of the sites even have an outhouse. Stayed in October, so when I left early the next morning, I passed a lot of hunters that had camped along the road, too. The road is in good condition. No AT&T cell service in this area.

  • MARY B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 22, 2021

    Seventh Lake Primitive Camping

    Canoe Camping at Its Best

    There are a few camping sites and one lean-to that I know of in this area. We happened upon it on our way to the seventh lake campground and ended up staying for two nights. 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. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited.  There is a trail that connects the campsites to Seventh Lake Rd. and to the Bug Lake trail and we had some Hikers travel through the campsite. If you are looking for the site from the water, look for a HUGE rock and there will be a sign that reads camp here, there are two more campsites, one with a lean-to within a short walk as well.

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Ward Brook Campsite

    Great campsite at the bottom of Seymour mountain

    Great campsite with a nice lean-to. 

    Fire pit, picnic table, and a privy. 

    A bit further you will find some tent spots too. 

    Plenty of water around.


Guide to Riparius

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Riparius, New York, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Scenic River Access for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides a peaceful setting right off a quiet road, with a fire ring and easy access to the river, perfect for those who love the sound of flowing water at night.
  • Campers at the Crane Mountain Pond Campsite can enjoy breathtaking sunset views after a short hike, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate stunning natural scenery.
  • The Forked Lake Adirondack Preserve offers a beautiful lakeside experience, where visitors can kayak to their site and enjoy the tranquility of the water.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Riparius, New York

  • When visiting the Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest, remember that it's a hike-in area, so pack light and be prepared for a bit of a trek to reach your camping spot.
  • The Gooley Club Road is accessible by car, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to drive in and set up camp without the hassle of a long hike.
  • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, the North Woods Club Road Dispersed Camping offers a quiet retreat where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle.

Unique Features of Dispersed Camping Locations

  • The Crane Pond Dispersed Site allows for both drive-in and walk-in access, giving campers flexibility in how they reach their site, whether by vehicle or on foot.
  • At the Vanderwacker Mountain Wild Forest, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife watching, all while camping in a natural setting.
  • The Lake Durant off Old Route 28 is a great spot for those who want to experience the beauty of the Adirondacks while enjoying the freedom of dispersed camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Riparius, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Riparius, NY is Crane Mountain Pond Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Riparius, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Riparius, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.