Best Dispersed Camping near Cos Cob, CT

Dispersed camping options near Cos Cob, Connecticut are limited, with the closest sites located in New York state. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers free primitive camping across its 900+ acres of forested land. The area requires hike-in or walk-in access and permits fires, alcohol, and pets. Cell service is generally available, providing connectivity despite the remote setting. The narrow access road is unsuitable for trailers or RVs with limited turnaround space.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides another free camping option with tent sites accessible by hiking in. The parking lot accommodates only 4-6 vehicles, making early arrival advisable. As one camper shared, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." Standard Leave No Trace principles apply, with camping permitted anywhere 150 feet from the trail. Both locations enforce backcountry camping rules with no facilities, water sources, or established sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency for overnight stays.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cos Cob, Connecticut (3)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for."

    "This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."

    2. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cos Cob, CT

2 Photos of 3 Cos Cob Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cos Cob, CT

5 Reviews of 3 Cos Cob Campgrounds


  • Doc B.
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for. Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. There is plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy, especially since these over 900 acres also back up to another huge plot of protected forests. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.


Guide to Cos Cob

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cos Cob, Connecticut, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Cos Cob

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails available at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, offering a chance to explore over 900 acres of beautiful forest and wildlife.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Hemlock Ridge

  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides a unique opportunity to camp anywhere within 150 feet of the trail, allowing for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.

Wildlife Watching for Dispersed Campers

  • Nature lovers will find plenty of wildlife to observe at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, where the surrounding protected forests create a rich habitat for various species.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cos Cob, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cos Cob, CT is Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cos Cob, CT?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Cos Cob, CT, with real photos and reviews from campers.