Tent campers in the Latham area can find diverse dispersed camping options within driving distance of the city. The Capital Region offers camping opportunities between 1,000-2,000 feet elevation in both the Catskill and Taconic mountain ranges. Seasonal access typically runs from May through October, with some sites closing earlier due to fall weather conditions.
What to do
Whitewater adventures nearby: For campers willing to travel about 90 minutes from Latham, Zoar Outdoor in Massachusetts offers tent camping with easy access to river activities. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side," notes reviewer Seth K.
Hiking to secluded campsites: Alander Trail Campground provides backcountry camping accessible via a moderate 1.5-2 mile hike. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy," explains Kay D. The campground provides bear boxes at each site for food storage.
Mountain biking from camp: The trail system at Ushers Road State Forest accommodates both hiking and cycling. Trail access points connect to multiple potential camping locations. According to one camper, "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
Secluded waterfront sites: Echo Lake offers free dispersed camping with lakeside views and elevated options. "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," reports James A. The lake includes both a lean-to and individual tent sites distributed around the shoreline with established fire pits.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at dispersed camping areas near Latham. At Duck Pond Campsite, campers find "quite campsites" with minimal traffic. One visitor noted they "arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: When venturing further from Latham toward the Massachusetts border, Alander Trail Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!" notes Liz P. The primitive campground maintains bear boxes at each site for food storage.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Some campsites require navigating rough roads unsuitable for certain vehicles. At Duck Pond Campsite, one camper cautioned, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Variable insect conditions: Wetland proximity affects mosquito activity throughout the camping season. At Echo Lake, campers are advised that "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray." Similarly, pond areas typically have more insect activity during summer months, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Fire restrictions vary by location: While many dispersed sites allow fires in established rings, Zoar Outdoor prohibits fires at campsites. As one visitor noted, "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive." Always check current fire regulations before your trip, especially during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Echo Lake provides an accessible introduction to backpacking for families with children. One camper shared, "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake."
Food storage requirements: When camping with children in areas with wildlife, proper food storage becomes essential. At Alander Trail Campground, "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," notes Kay D.
Site selection for weather protection: When camping with families, consider elevated sites for better ventilation during hot summer months. At Echo Lake, experienced campers recommend hillside locations: "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze" for natural cooling and fewer insects.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions on forest roads: Larger RVs face access challenges at many camping areas near Latham. Duck Pond Campsite cautions visitors with the review title "Small vehicle only" due to rough access roads. Consider smaller, more maneuverable RVs for these locations or base camp at established campgrounds with easier access.
Dispersed camping options: Most RV-accessible sites near Latham are found at established campgrounds rather than dispersed locations. HOGAN'S LANDING offers just three designated sites with drinking water and toilet facilities, but without hookups or dump stations.
Pack-in requirements: For RVers accustomed to full hookups, prepare for self-sufficient camping at most sites near Latham. Bring portable water containers, waste storage solutions, and solar or battery power options as most locations offer minimal amenities and no electrical connections.
