Primitive camping near Westernville, New York offers secluded outdoor experiences in the southwestern Adirondack region. The area features elevations ranging from 1,200-2,000 feet with humid continental climate conditions producing snowy winters and mild summers. Most dispersed sites lack cell service coverage, with campers reporting complete disconnection at many locations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Seventh Lake Primitive Camping offers excellent wildlife observation potential. "There is a large sand bar within a very short walk which was a great place to hang out. Seventh lake is pretty quiet but there were a few boats there both days we visited," notes Mary B.
Water recreation: Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping provides swimming in clean, clear water. "The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear," confirms a regular visitor who adds that the site is "a short hike in to a great beach for swimming or paddling."
Fishing access: Multiple sites provide fishing opportunities. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one visitor reported, "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)." Another camper at the same location noted trying fishing "without any luck" after heavy rainfall.
What campers like
Seclusion factor: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers genuine remoteness. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake," explains Ashlee C., who car camped at this location.
Freedom from technology: Primitive sites allow complete disconnection. At Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest, visitors note "There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly." Another camper confirms "No AT&T cell service in this area" either.
Direct lake access: Many campsites feature water proximity. At Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping, Elizabeth B. notes there's "access to the lake for swimming or fishing" and the 0.3-mile trail from McCarty Road provides parking for "two cars or a small RV off the road."
What you should know
Fire regulations vary: Not all sites permit fires. At Winona State Forest, a visitor noted "There were some firewood set out except it was wet," while at sites like Towsley Road and Seventh Lake, fires are prohibited entirely.
Site identification challenges: Finding designated camping areas can require careful attention. At Towsley Road, Noah D. advises "when you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road."
Weather preparedness: Rain affects accessibility and comfort at these primitive sites. One camper at Winona State Forest reported "It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful" despite lacking shelter amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance options: For families with young children, Sunday Lake offers manageable access. "The trail is 0.3 miles To Sunday Lake. Space to park two cars or a small RV off the road," making it suitable for families willing to carry gear a short distance.
Sandy beach access: Sites with beaches work well for families. One camper at Stillwater Reservoir noted their "site #37 accommodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs" with swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding opportunities.
Primitive bathroom considerations: Most sites lack facilities, though some have basic options. At Fort Plain Lock 15, "you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter," which helps with family logistics.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most dispersed sites have restricted RV access. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one RVer described it as "simply a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality. Approaching Stillwater Reservoir requires navigating "a 20 mile ride of just woods on a bumpy road" according to one visitor, making larger rigs challenging to maneuver.
Site surface considerations: Expect uneven terrain at most sites. At Fort Plain Lock 15, a camper noted "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven" requiring careful positioning for leveling an RV.
