Dispersed camping near Wanakena, New York offers primitive sites across elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 feet throughout the western Adirondacks. The region experiences significant seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. During spring and fall shoulder seasons, campers should prepare for nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 30s even when days are mild.
What to do
Hiking to fire towers: The Stillwater Fire Tower trail provides a moderate 1.9-mile hike with 480 feet of elevation gain. "There is a good fire circle with space all around. The trail down to the beach is only about a hundred feet, but it is downhill," notes a visitor to Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping.
Paddling between campsites: Multiple waterways connect primitive sites, creating opportunities for multi-day trips. "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," reports a camper at Seventh Lake Primitive Camping.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer optimal viewing conditions. "This was my 3rd trip to Stillwater in 3 yrs and it gets better each time! We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding with the family," shares a visitor to Stillwater Reservoir.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Many water-access sites offer complete privacy on small islands. "We spent 3 nights backcountry camping on Catamount Island in Cranberry Lake and absolutely loved it! The sunsets from the island were truly incredible. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," explains a visitor to Cranberry Lake Backcountry Sites.
Designated primitive sites: County roads provide access to established primitive sites with basic amenities. "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," reports a camper at Horseshoe Lake.
Swimming opportunities: Sandy beaches and clear water create natural swimming areas. "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear. Because you can't make a reservation here sometimes there's competition for a spot," notes a visitor to Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Digital disconnection: Cell service is virtually nonexistent throughout the region. "Camped here for a few days, no cell, no internet," reports a visitor to Polliwog Lake on Floodwood Road.
Water access requirements: Most sites require boats to reach. "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached. It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite," advises a Stillwater Reservoir visitor.
Limited provisions: General stores offer only basic supplies. "The Village of Cranberry Lake has some supplies, but not much except the very basics at the general store. You'll need to head to Star Lake or Tupper Lake for anything of significance," notes a Cranberry Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Several sites feature shallow, sandy-bottom swimming spots ideal for children. "Even in cold rainy weather we had a phenomenal time at Stillwater. Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees," shares a Stillwater Reservoir visitor.
Lean-to options: Several areas offer lean-tos which provide shelter during inclement weather. "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," reports a camper at Ward Brook Campsite.
Short hiking distances: Some sites offer minimal walking distance from parking. "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," notes a visitor to Little Green Pond.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-accessible sites: Most dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Public access boat ramp with limited parking available on both sides. No amenities on-site. I'm getting two bars of Verizon signal with the help of a WeBoost," reports a visitor to Payne Lake Dispersed Site.
Generator restrictions: Most primitive sites prohibit generators. "As it's a forest, the sites are pretty shaded, so solar and Starlink may present challenges. Slight AT&T at earlier sites," explains a Horseshoe Lake camper regarding alternative power options.
Road conditions: Forest roads accessing dispersed camping sites often require slow travel. "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 a visitor to Stillwater Reservoir describing the vehicle-accessible site.
