Perkins Clearing Boondocking Review: Off-Grid Camping Near Mason Lake

Perkins Clearing Conservation Easement quickly became one of my favorite boondocking areas in the Adirondacks. After spending time in traditional campgrounds, I was looking for a place where Kona and I could truly get off the grid, and Perkins Clearing delivered exactly that.

The area contains numerous designated roadside campsites scattered along a network of dirt roads near Mason Lake and Jessup River. I spent nearly two hours exploring the area before settling on a large clearing near wetlands and a small stream. One of the things I appreciated most was the variety of sites available. Some were better suited for tents, while others could accommodate larger RVs. A few roads were rough enough that I chose not to take my motorhome down them, but many sites were easily accessible.

The campsite I selected offered plenty of privacy and enough open sky for my Starlink system. That's become an important consideration during my travels, especially when I need to work remotely.

Fishing opportunities were one of the reasons I chose the location. Several streams and creeks run throughout the area, particularly around Jessup River and nearby waterways. My fishing results were mixed during my stay, but the amount of fishable water available nearby was impressive. Anglers could easily spend several days exploring different access points.

For dog owners, Perkins Clearing is hard to beat. Kona loved the freedom of being in such a remote location. We enjoyed long walks through the forest, and because traffic was almost nonexistent, it felt like we had the wilderness to ourselves.

Wildlife and bird watching were another highlight. During morning walks we listened to Swainson's Thrushes, Ovenbirds, Swamp Sparrows, and Common Yellowthroats. At night, frogs filled the wetlands with an almost constant chorus.

The biggest downside was black fly season. The flies were relentless during my visit. Even bug spray struggled to keep them away, and simply stepping outside often resulted in being swarmed.

If you're looking for hookups, showers, or campground amenities, Perkins Clearing isn't for you. But if your goal is solitude, wildlife, fishing access, and true off-grid camping, it's one of the best boondocking areas I've found in the Adirondacks.

Rating: 9/10