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Dispersed Camping

Echo Lake

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Echo Lake is located near the Catskill Mountains in New York, offering a landscape of forests and hills. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include Kaaterskill Falls and North-South Lake, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

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Location

Echo Lake is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

42.09821893 N
74.09008328 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Echo Lake needs a permit.


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Reviews

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5.0

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2025

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.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Echo Lake by James A., June 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Echo Lake by James A., June 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Echo Lake by James A., June 29, 2025
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2021

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.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Echo Lake by Kate , July 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Echo Lake by Kate , July 9, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can you do near Echo Lake Campground in New York?

Echo Lake offers excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, and enjoying the pristine mountain lake. Hiking is popular, with trails around the lake and through the surrounding hills. Wildlife observation and photography are rewarding activities as you explore the natural Catskill setting. Backpacking to and from the campground is part of the adventure. The campground's proximity to Woodstock means you can also enjoy cultural attractions in the area when you're ready for a break from nature.

Where is Echo Lake Campground located in New York?

Echo Lake Campground is located in the Catskill Mountains of New York. It's nestled among hills that surround the lake, creating a secluded wilderness experience. The campground is relatively accessible for backpackers and is considered a good location for first-time backpackers. While the exact location coordinates aren't specified, it's in a natural setting that offers beautiful views of the surrounding Catskill landscape.

What camping facilities are available at Echo Lake in the Catskills?

Echo Lake offers primitive camping facilities including scattered tent sites around the lake and one lean-to near the trail entrance. Each site typically features a fire pit. The camping areas are naturally shaded by trees and relatively flat for comfortable tent setup. Facilities are minimal - there are no developed amenities like showers or flush toilets. Parts of the area can become swampy, particularly near the edges of the lake. The sites require backpacking to access and maintaining wilderness camping etiquette is expected.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Echo Lake in New York?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Echo Lake. There are tent sites distributed around the entire lake perimeter rather than in a single designated campground area. Sites are accessed by navigating through sometimes overgrown trails. Some campers choose spots on the hills overlooking the lake for better views and breezes. Be prepared for more primitive camping conditions and remember to follow Leave No Trace principles while enjoying this beautiful Catskills location.