Dispersed camping options near St. Johnsville, New York range across several state forests within the southern Adirondack region at elevations between 800-1500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through March. Summer nights remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, creating favorable conditions for rustic camping without excessive heat.
What to do
Fishing access points: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers 32 sites around a pristine lake. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake," notes Ashlee C. The reservoir permits fishing with valid New York fishing license.
Biking trails: Ushers Road State Forest provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. "I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area," reports one camper who visited after rainfall.
Winter camping: Burnt Rossman State Forest accommodates cold-weather enthusiasts. "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!" writes Felix R., who stayed during January when temperatures typically range from 10-30°F.
What campers like
Stream access: Betty Brook Camp receives positive feedback for its waterfront sites. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," notes Robert B., who has visited the area for decades. The stream provides natural cooling during summer months.
Year-round availability: Primitive sites remain open throughout winter months unlike many developed campgrounds that close seasonally. "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now," reports a regular visitor about Betty Brook Camp.
Seclusion factor: Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest features sites with varying privacy levels. "Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods," writes Meghan B., who visited in October when fall foliage typically peaks.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse," cautions a visitor to Duck Pond Campsite, adding that "intermittent cell service was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Site identification: Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off requires attention to find. "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," explains Josie W.
Vehicle requirements: Site limitations affect camping logistics at several locations. At Cod Pond, one camper noted, "A car is not recommended. Possible to turn around but you definitely need a smaller SUV." Similar constraints exist throughout rustic camping areas near St. Johnsville.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Duck Pond Campsite offers enjoyable water access with manageable insect populations. "The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience," reports Yae U.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience ambient sounds. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail has "sounds of the highway and freight trains going by," according to one visitor who adds, "my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving."
Amenity planning: Most rustic sites require complete self-sufficiency. "There is a fire pit at the site and plenty of space for multiple tents, ground may look flat but when sleeping-definitely is not," cautions a camper about Cod Pond, highlighting the importance of careful equipment selection.
Tips from RVers
Site capacity: Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail accommodates various camping styles. "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River," notes Mona M., who adds that signs restricting vehicles apply "only to the grassy picnic area" not the parking area suitable for RVs.
Seasonal variations: Water levels fluctuate throughout the year affecting access and site conditions. "The water was significantly lower last time I was here. They have dropped the gates, and the lock is in operation," reports a return visitor to Fort Plain Lock 15, highlighting how conditions change between seasons.
Surface conditions: Site entrances can present challenges after precipitation. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, a visitor noted, "There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft," indicating the need for caution when maneuvering larger vehicles during wet weather.
