Rustic camping near Salisbury, Connecticut offers adventurers access to the Berkshire-Taconic mountain range, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. The region transitions between USDA hardiness zones 5a and 5b, creating a diverse forest ecosystem dominated by maple, oak, and birch trees. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F while spring and fall bring substantial temperature variations and occasional frost.
What to do
Hiking from camp sites: At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, campers can access 80 acres of forested trails. "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," notes Dawn M.
Lake activities: Echo Lake provides opportunities for swimming and paddling in a mountain setting. "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)," advises James A., who camped "on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Fishing access: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers easy access to nearby fishing areas. "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond-don't think there are any fish. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road," reports Breanne H.
What campers like
Cell service reliability: The mix of wilderness and connectivity appeals to many campers in the region. At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, Tim M. found "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."
Established platforms: At Sage's Revine, Brendan M. notes "the area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs." The platforms provide stable tent sites regardless of weather conditions.
Proximity to climbing areas: For rock climbers, Hemlock Ridge serves as an economical base camp. Cory D. describes it as "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."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding and insects: Echo Lake campsites vary in conditions throughout the year. Kate explains that "the sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Limited parking capacity: Most primitive sites in the area have very restricted parking. At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, Dawn M. advises "the parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight." Arriving early on weekends is recommended.
Backcountry regulations: Jug End Dispersed camping may have changing regulations. According to licia S., "This is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area." Always check current rules before planning a trip.
Tips for camping with families
First backpacking experience: Echo Lake offers accessible backcountry camping for beginners. Kate shares, "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."
Gear considerations: For primitive camping in the Salisbury region, families need to be self-sufficient. Dawn M. states there are "absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
Potential crowding: Allow time to find suitable sites at popular areas. Kate notes that Echo Lake "does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Salisbury are not suitable for larger vehicles. Tim M. cautions about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park: "the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Access challenges: Campers with RVs should thoroughly research access roads before attempting primitive camping in this region. Brendan M. found that at Sage's Revine "there was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead."
Nearby alternatives: For RVers seeking amenities while still accessing primitive areas, licia S. reports that one nearby established campground "was only $25 night. Great looking facilities and friendly staff."
