Best Dispersed Camping near Thomaston, CT
The northwestern corner of Connecticut near Thomaston provides access to several dispersed camping options within a 30-45 minute drive, particularly along sections of the Appalachian Trail. Sage's Revine campground, located just over the Connecticut-Massachusetts border, offers year-round hike-in camping with 12 platforms and basic amenities including drinking water, toilets, and bear boxes. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park in nearby New York state provides free dispersed camping across its 900+ acres of forested land. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed camping area offers primitive tent camping options for those seeking minimal infrastructure, while Jug End along the Appalachian Trail serves section hikers with basic facilities.
Most dispersed camping areas in the region require hiking in from small parking areas that accommodate limited vehicles. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park features trails through dense forest with camping permitted throughout, though a visitor notes it's "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." Camping regulations vary between sites, with some requiring permits while others operate on a first-come basis. Sage's Revine prohibits fires but provides bear boxes and bathroom facilities. Weather conditions remain relatively mild year-round, though spring brings increased rainfall and potential trail flooding. Cell service is generally available near Taconic Hereford but limited at more remote sites like Hemlock Ridge.
Campers consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere of these dispersed sites. One visitor to Hemlock Ridge noted, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." The parking areas at most dispersed sites are small, typically holding 4-10 vehicles, which naturally limits crowding. Sage's Revine receives positive reviews for its water proximity and platform spacing, with one camper noting the sites are "50 feet between platforms" with "bear boxes available." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly at Taconic Hereford where visitors report "plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy." Bugs can be problematic during warmer months, with one camper describing them as "relentless" at Hemlock Ridge.
