Best Dispersed Camping near Danbury, CT

Dispersed camping options near Danbury, Connecticut include several primitive sites within an hour's drive. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers true backcountry camping across its 900+ acres of forest land. This area requires hikers to pack in all supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles. The park features multiple trails for exploration and borders additional protected forest land, creating an extensive wilderness experience. Cell service remains available throughout most of the park despite the remote setting.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed camping provides basic, amenity-free sites popular with rock climbers visiting the Gunks. The small parking area accommodates only 4-6 vehicles, and campers must set up at least 150 feet from established trails. According to reviews, "bugs are relentless" in this area, so appropriate insect protection is essential. The 80-acre wooded property offers quiet, secluded camping without mountain views or facilities.

Sage's Revine, located near the Connecticut-Massachusetts border on the Appalachian Trail, features 12 camping platforms spaced approximately 50 feet apart. This more developed site includes bear boxes, bathroom facilities, and access to non-potable water from a nearby stream. Fire restrictions apply throughout this area. The proximity to water makes this location particularly attractive for hikers seeking a reliable campsite along the AT corridor.

All these dispersed camping areas require proper preparation. Visitors should carry sufficient water, pack out all trash, and inform someone of their planned location and return time. Several campers noted the importance of leaving "the area cleaner than when you arrived" to preserve these natural spaces for future use.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Danbury, Connecticut (3)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    28 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."

    2. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    33 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."

    3. Sage's Revine

    1 Review
    Taconic, CT
    45 miles
    Website

    "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Danbury, CT

1 Photos of 3 Danbury Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Danbury, CT

5 Reviews of 3 Danbury 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

  • Luke A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2018

    Sage's Revine

    Fantastic spot, right near water. 12 platforms available.

    Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail. Great spot, highly recommend.


Guide to Danbury

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Danbury, Connecticut, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of options available, you can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while still being close to town.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Danbury

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails available at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which offers a chance to explore over 900 acres of protected forest and enjoy the local wildlife.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Hemlock Ridge MUA

  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed allows camping anywhere 150 feet from the trail, providing a true back-to-nature feel amidst 80 acres of forest.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Danbury, Connecticut

  • If you're looking for a well-equipped spot, consider Sage's Revine, which features amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for your outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Danbury, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Danbury, CT is Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

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