Primitive camping opportunities near Summit, New York center around state forests and undeveloped sites that offer back-to-nature experiences without modern amenities. These rustic camping locations typically feature small clearings with basic fire rings where visitors can set up tents in forested settings. Most sites require visitors to follow New York State backcountry camping regulations, including camping at least 150 feet from water sources, roads, or trails unless at designated sites.
What to do
Fishing at riverside sites: Fort Plain Lock 15 provides access to the Mohawk River where anglers gather. "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing with a valid license," notes Mona M., who mentions the location has "Verizon cell service" and "potable water available on the side of the building as you enter."
Hiking to secluded campsites: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping offers spots "about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead" with "a lot of spots right by the river," according to Ali B., who adds it's a "great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain."
Mountain biking forest trails: Ushers Road State Forest provides "access to bicycle-friendly nature trails" where visitors can explore both directions. One camper reports riding "approximately half a mile down each side" before reaching terrain that "eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area."
Wildlife observation: Multiple sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one camper mentions "the resident peacock has been keeping me company," while other locations feature opportunities to watch birds and small mammals in their natural habitats.
What campers like
Lakeside views: Echo Lake earns praise for its setting "surrounded by hills" with "a small lean to with a few campfire spots." James A. recommends camping "on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Remote locations: Many campers appreciate the solitude at primitive sites. At Betty Brook Camp, which Peter describes as "rather remote, but right along West kill road," visitors value the privacy and natural setting with "a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Winter accessibility: Several locations remain open year-round. At Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, Felix R. found it "was a great location for winter camping" with a "site easily accessible from road."
Streamside camping: Many sites feature water access. Allaben Primitive Campsites provides a "nice spot right off the main road and close to town" with a "small pond" and "trails to the fishing access across the road," according to Breanne H.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campsites requires navigating rough forest roads. At Duck Pond Campsite, a camper warns about road quality: "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived at surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Limited facilities: Most sites lack developed amenities. At Echo Lake, Kate reminds visitors to "practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in" since no garbage facilities exist.
Seasonal considerations: Site conditions vary throughout the year. As one camper at Fort Plain Lock 15 observed, "The water was significantly lower last time I was here. They have dropped the gates, and the lock is in operation."
Campsite selection: Finding suitable spots requires planning. At Ushers Road State Forest, one visitor notes "camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail," providing "an abundance of potential camping spots."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Water proximity often means insect activity. At Echo Lake, one camper advises "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Site spacing: Some areas have limited defined camping areas. Echo Lake has "tent sites scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)," according to James A., which may present challenges for younger children.
Noise levels: Consider sound when selecting sites. At some popular locations, campers report it "can get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night."
Access to supplies: Most locations require complete self-sufficiency. Peter notes that near Betty Brook Camp there's only "a small town, with just a gas station store" about 8 miles away, so families should pack all necessary supplies.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Allaben Primitive Campsites and similar locations can accommodate smaller RVs but have space restrictions. One local advises about Betty Brook Camp: "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Parking conditions: Several sites have specific parking requirements. At Fort Plain Lock 15, The L. describes it as "simply a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water."
Surface concerns: Weather impacts RV access significantly. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, The L. warns "parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft," indicating potential issues with getting vehicles stuck during rain.
Ambient noise: Background sounds vary by location. One camper at Fort Plain Lock 15 notes it "offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by," adding "if you need quiet, keep on moving."
