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Best Dispersed Camping near Stamford, CT

5 Reviews

Limited dispersed camping options exist within driving distance of Stamford, Connecticut. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park in New York offers free primitive camping across its 900-acre forested property. The area allows fires and pets but provides no amenities - no water, toilets, or trash service. The narrow access road makes it unsuitable for trailers or RVs. According to one visitor, the park is "less than 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."

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed is another primitive option in New York state, providing tent camping accessible by hike-in or walk-in trails. The parking area accommodates only 4-6 vehicles, and campers must follow standard dispersed camping protocols, setting up at least 150 feet from trails. A visitor noted, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." The area is popular with rock climbers visiting nearby Gunks climbing areas. Both locations require proper preparation for completely self-sufficient camping with no facilities.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Stamford, Connecticut (3)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    48 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."

    3. Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

    Be the first to review!
    Queens, NY
    37 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Stamford, CT

2 Photos of 3 Stamford Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Stamford, CT

5 Reviews of 3 Stamford 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 Stamford

Discover the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Stamford, Connecticut. This experience allows you to immerse yourself in the wilderness while enjoying the freedom of camping away from traditional sites.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Stamford

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Stamford, Connecticut

  • When camping at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

  • This well-reviewed spot allows for a truly wild camping experience, just a short drive from town, making it perfect for those looking to escape into nature while still having access to cell service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free campsites available in the Stamford area?

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed offers free camping opportunities within reasonable distance of Stamford. This primitive site has no amenities but provides access to 80 acres of forested land where you can camp at least 150 feet from the main trail following Leave No Trace principles. The small parking lot accommodates 4-6 vehicles, so arrive early during peak seasons. While basic, it offers a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking free camping options in the general vicinity.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Stamford, Connecticut?

True dispersed camping options near Stamford are limited, but within driving distance you can find Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park in nearby New York. This hidden gem offers a quiet forest setting for primitive camping less than 10 minutes from town. You'll need to hike in to find suitable spots to set up camp, but the secluded nature provides an authentic backcountry experience. While not immediately adjacent to Stamford, this location offers the closest true dispersed camping experience in the region.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping around Stamford?

For dispersed camping near Stamford, typical regulations include camping at least 150 feet from trails, roads, and water sources. At areas like Floyd Bennett Field, permits are often required and must be obtained in advance. Generally, dispersed camping in Connecticut and nearby New York follows Leave No Trace principles, limiting stays to 14 days within a 30-day period. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with some locations requiring fire permits or prohibiting fires during dry periods. Always check with the specific land management agency before your trip as regulations may change seasonally.

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