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Best Dispersed Camping near New Canaan, CT

5 Reviews

Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers free dispersed camping approximately 50 miles from New Canaan, Connecticut in New York state. The 900+ acre forested area provides primitive camping opportunities with no established facilities. Campers must hike in to find suitable spots, with full cell service available despite the remote feel. Fires are permitted and pets are allowed, but visitors should note there are no drinking water sources, toilets, or trash collection. The narrow access road has limited turnaround space and is unsuitable for trailers or RVs.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, another free camping option in the region, accommodates tent camping on its 80-acre wooded property. A small parking lot holds 4-6 vehicles, with camping permitted anywhere 150 feet from the trail. A camper noted "there are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." Popular among rock climbers accessing nearby areas, this location follows standard Leave No Trace principles and requires self-sufficiency. Both locations provide backcountry camping experiences within reasonable driving distance of New Canaan.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near New Canaan, Connecticut (3)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    44 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
    44 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. Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

    Be the first to review!
    Queens, NY
    44 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near New Canaan, CT

2 Photos of 3 New Canaan Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near New Canaan, CT

5 Reviews of 3 New Canaan 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 New Canaan

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near New Canaan, Connecticut, where nature awaits just beyond the city limits. Enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while exploring unique camping spots that offer a chance to connect with nature.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near New Canaan

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trails available at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which provide a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and adventure.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near New Canaan, Connecticut

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the natural beauty of areas like Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the same pristine environment.

Wildlife Watching for Dispersed Campers

  • Keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife while camping 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 New Canaan, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near New Canaan, 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 New Canaan, CT?

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

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