Dispersed camping opportunities near Wells, New York span across multiple state forests and wild forest areas in the southern Adirondack region. Free camping sites are located at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,100 feet, with most accessible via unpaved forest roads. Weather patterns in this area include significant seasonal variation, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, campers can observe various riverside species. The location offers "great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing" according to one visitor, with a valid fishing license required. The site even features a resident peacock that keeps campers company.
Mountain hiking: Crane Mountain near Crane Mountain Pond Campsite offers challenging terrain with significant elevation gain. A camper reports: "After a short hike up steep crane mountain we watched the beautiful sun set." The hike rewards with panoramic views of surrounding wilderness areas.
Biking forest trails: The trail system at Ushers Road State Forest provides options for cyclists on natural surface paths. One visitor noted: "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
What campers like
Remote lake access: North Lake Reservoir Campground features 32 primitive sites situated around the water. Visitors appreciate the solitude, with one camper stating: "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean." Another camper advises: "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Waterfront camping: Many campers value the proximity to water at numerous sites. At Seventh Lake Primitive Camping, one visitor shared: "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out." This site offers both water and land-based recreation opportunities.
Seclusion despite road proximity: Some sites balance accessibility with privacy. At Cod Pond Dispersed Pull-Off, a camper noted: "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." Another visitor mentioned hearing a river: "There was a fire ring and access to the river down a semi-steep bank. Beautiful to listen to at night."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads deteriorate during wet weather. For Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest, one visitor reported: "It was rocky getting there but super super remote - zero service. Great space for my jeep and honestly you could fit a LARGE RV."
Campsite identification: Finding specific sites can be challenging. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, one visitor advises: "Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods."
Water sources: Most dispersed sites have no potable water. Fort Plain Lock 15 is an exception, with a visitor noting: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility planning: Choose sites that match your family's mobility needs. At North Lake Reservoir, a camper shared: "We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."
Noise considerations: Some areas have consistent background sounds. One camper at Fort Plain Lock 15 advised: "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving."
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by location and season. A visitor to Cod Pond Pull-Off warned: "The bugs were terrible." Pack appropriate repellents, nets, and protective clothing, especially during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Turning space limitations: Many forest roads have limited turnaround areas. A visitor to Cod Pond Pull-Off explained: "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."
Parking surface quality: Expect uneven terrain at most free camping areas near Wells. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one RVer observed: "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River."
Low-clearance challenges: Consider vehicle height when selecting sites. Bear Slide in Lake George Wild Forest would work for larger vehicles according to one visitor, but most dispersed locations require careful navigation of forest roads with potential obstacles.
