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Best Dispersed Camping near South Kent, CT

11 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options surround South Kent, Connecticut, primarily on state and federal lands within a 30-mile radius. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park in New York offers free primitive camping across 900+ acres with hike-in access. Visitors note full cell service despite the remote feel. The parking area accommodates only 4-6 vehicles with limited turnaround space, making it unsuitable for trailers or RVs.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed in New York provides tent camping with no amenities, approximately 150 feet from access trails. A review notes it's "quiet and off the beaten path" with a small 10-car parking lot and 80 acres of forest to explore. The area attracts climbers due to its proximity to the Gunks. Jug End near the Appalachian Trail and Echo Lake in the Catskills offer additional primitive camping options, though reviews indicate Jug End may no longer permit camping. Echo Lake features tent sites around the water with fire pits and a lean-to. Fire restrictions vary by location, with some areas permitting fires while others enforce strict bans.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near South Kent, Connecticut (5)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    16 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. Sage's Revine

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, CT
    26 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."

    3. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    29 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."

    4. Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    South Egremont, MA
    32 miles
    Website

    "Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."

    5. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near South Kent, CT

4 Photos of 5 South Kent Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near South Kent, CT

11 Reviews of 5 South Kent Campgrounds

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    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.  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.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  It 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.

  • 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

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • 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.

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    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) We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze.

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

    Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Jug End Campground, Great Spot for Section Hikers and All.

    Great spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at. Trash cans, but carry out is preferable.

Guide to South Kent

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near South Kent, Connecticut, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while still having access to essential amenities.

Dispersed campers should check out Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

  • This area offers a unique experience with its hike-in access, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature as you set up camp.
  • Enjoy the freedom of camping without permits, making it easy to plan spontaneous trips to Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
  • With no drinking water available, be sure to bring your own supplies, but you can still enjoy campfires and the company of your pets.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near South Kent, Connecticut

  • For those looking for a well-reviewed spot, Sage's Revine provides drinking water and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for campers.
  • This location is accessible year-round, ensuring that you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in any season.
  • The platforms are spaced out for privacy, allowing you to enjoy your camping experience without feeling crowded.

Echo Lake for dispersed campers

  • If you're seeking a picturesque setting, Echo Lake offers tent sites around the lake, complete with fire pits for cozy evenings.
  • The area is well-shaded, providing a comfortable environment, but be prepared for some swampy spots near the water's edge.
  • As a popular destination, it can get busy later in the day, so arriving early will help you secure a prime spot and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near South Kent, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near South Kent, 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 South Kent, CT?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near South Kent, CT, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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