Primitive camping near South Colton, New York offers numerous lakeside options within the western Adirondack region. The terrain features a mix of coniferous and deciduous forests at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. Access roads to many sites remain unpaved and can become challenging after rainfall, requiring vehicles with adequate ground clearance during spring thaw or heavy precipitation periods.
What to do
Paddling exploration: Little Green Pond provides excellent paddling opportunities with minimal motorized traffic. "12 designated camping spots. Some require driving down a bumpy access road that can be muddy after a rain. Sites are on the Pond. Pond has a small beach to swim. Tree covered sites," notes camper Lo M.
Hiking trails: Ward Brook Campsite serves as an access point for Seymour Mountain trails. According to camper Alex R., the site includes "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."
Wildlife observation: Morning hours offer the best opportunities for viewing local wildlife. Stillwater Reservoir campers report frequent loon sightings, particularly during early mornings. "My wife and I kayaked to Long Island and stayed for a weekend. It was quiet and had the whole island to our self," shares Sam T.
Swimming: Several sites feature natural swimming areas with sandy beaches. Most lack designated swimming areas or lifeguards, requiring personal safety awareness. Water temperatures remain cool even in summer months.
What campers like
Island camping privacy: Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites offer excellent solitude. "Beautiful campgrounds... clean.. friendly.. amazing lake for kayaking and boating. Sites not crowded together," explains Kristal Ann F.
Unplugged experience: Digital detox comes naturally at most sites. "Camped here for a few days, no cell, no internet," reports Debbie T. about her stay at Polliwog Lake. Most campers report minimal to no cellular reception at waterfront sites.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights offer exceptional celestial viewing due to minimal light pollution. The Adirondack region's dark sky designation makes primitive sites ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Beach access: Many waterfront sites feature natural sand beaches. "Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees," writes Elizabeth B. about her Stillwater experience.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. "You will either need to bring your own potable water or filter from the lake, so don't forget your water filter," advises one Cranberry Lake visitor.
Boat requirements: Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping offers accessible shoreline camping. "This is a small primitive site. No services, but a very beautiful spot. There's a small fire ring, and access to the lake for swimming or fishing," says Elizabeth B., noting the "trail is 0.3 miles To Sunday lake. Space to park two cars or a small RV off the road."
Variable cell reception: Signal strength depends on location and carrier. At Payne Lake, one camper reports, "I'm getting two bars of Verizon signal with the help of a WeBoost. Beautiful views, peaceful and quiet."
Access challenges: Many roads leading to camping areas remain unmaintained. The approach to Stillwater Reservoir involves "a 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road," according to Dane P.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety: Look for gradual-entry shorelines for safer swimming. Little Green Pond features a small swimming beach ideal for children with shallow water entry points.
Campsite selection: Horseshoe Lake offers accessible options for families. "Along Co 421, by Horseshoe Lake, there are 10-11 designated campsites. Most have fire pits. Road is rough but easily doable if you take it slow," advises Rebecca B.
Wildlife education: Create wildlife identification activities for children. Stillwater Reservoir offers opportunities to spot "Bald Eagles and Loons," making it ideal for nature observation.
Backup plans: Weather changes rapidly in the Adirondacks. Plan indoor alternatives in nearby communities for rainy days when primitive camping becomes challenging with children.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "Was a great camp site very big and had a trail that lead down to the water. This campsite is right down the road from the fire tower trail," notes Sam T. about the drive-in site at Stillwater Reservoir.
Power planning: No hookups exist at any primitive sites. Solar can be challenging due to tree cover as Rebecca B. notes about Horseshoe Lake sites: "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges."
Size limitations: Payne Lake Dispersed Site has "public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides," making it suitable only for smaller rigs that can navigate narrow access roads.
Road conditions: Prepare for rough terrain. Many access roads require high clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when surfaces become muddy and rutted.
