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Best Dispersed Camping near Stony Creek, NY

11 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options surround Stony Creek in New York's Adirondack region, with most requiring various access methods. Crane Mountain Pond Campsite offers primitive camping accessible via a steep hike, while Crane Pond Dispersed Site features both drive-in and boat-in options, though the road requires 4WD vehicles. A recent visitor noted, "Crane Pond Road from the lower parking lot to the pond itself is NOT maintained and often gets very muddy." This site includes nine camping spots, eight accessible only by boat.

Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off provides a more accessible option with sites located along a dirt road. These sites offer more privacy despite proximity to the road, with site #6 featuring its own private access road. Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest provides numbered roadside campsites with some including outhouses. Most dispersed sites in the area allow fires and are free to use, though amenities are minimal. Cell service is virtually non-existent throughout the region, with multiple reviewers confirming "zero Verizon cell service in the whole area."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Stony Creek, New York (15)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Stony Creek, NY

3 Photos of 15 Stony Creek Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Stony Creek, NY

11 Reviews of 15 Stony Creek 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.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead 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, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

  • 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.

  • Mona M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Just Passed Lock 15

    Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area. The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license). Verizon cell service is good here. At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter.

  • 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
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Great overnight.

    Simply it’s a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap.

  • 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,

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    High season

    Well, I’m back, it’s June, and there are 3 other groups here. 1 boat, and 2 tent camping. The parking lot is still empty. The water was significantly lower last time I was here. They have dropped the gates, and the lock is in operation. The resident peacock has been keeping me company. Tried fishing, without any luck, it had been raining a lot lately, so maybe that was the reason. It still has the highway noise and of course the train noise going by, but I love that. I anticipate another lovely sleep. It’s quite breezy, so the windows will be open. I’m in my happy place!!!

  • 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.

Guide to Stony Creek

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Stony Creek, New York, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off

  • This site offers a peaceful retreat right off a quiet road, making it easy to access while still feeling secluded. The Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off features a fire ring and proximity to a river, perfect for evening relaxation.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. Enjoy the natural surroundings while your pets explore the great outdoors.
  • While there are no amenities like toilets or trash disposal, the site provides a true back-to-nature experience, ideal for those looking to disconnect.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Stony Creek, New York

  • When visiting Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, remember that most sites are located along the road, but deeper spots offer more privacy and tranquility.
  • Be prepared for limited cell service in the area, especially at sites like Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, where you can truly escape the digital world and enjoy nature.
  • Bring your own firewood, as many sites, including Crane Pond Dispersed Site, do not provide firewood on-site, ensuring you can enjoy a cozy campfire.

Enjoy stunning views while free camping near Stony Creek

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Stony Creek, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Stony Creek, NY is Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

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

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