Dispersed camping options near Accord, New York extend throughout the Catskills with various primitive sites on public land. The region sits within the 700,000-acre Catskill Park at elevations ranging from 600 to 4,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer can bring significant rainfall, creating challenging terrain conditions particularly on unmarked access roads.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping provides easy access to wildlife viewing opportunities with toilet facilities rarely found at other primitive sites. The adjacent forest hosts deer, black bears, and numerous bird species common to the Catskill ecosystem.
Fishing access: At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers can easily reach nearby fishing spots. "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," notes camper Breanne H.
Winter camping: The Catskill region provides year-round primitive camping opportunities even during snow season. "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!" reports camper Felix R. about Burnt Rossman State Forest, noting the winter accessibility despite seasonal conditions.
What campers like
Privacy without isolation: Many dispersed sites offer seclusion while maintaining cell service coverage. "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," writes Doc B. about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, adding it provides "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
Lakeside spots: Several primitive camping areas feature water access with established sites. "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," describes James A. about his stay at Echo Lake.
Trail connectivity: Many primitive campsites connect directly to hiking trails. "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain," reports Ali B.
What you should know
Limited parking capacity: Most primitive camping areas have minimal parking facilities. "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," cautions Dawn M. about Hemlock Ridge MUA. This restriction often creates weekend crowding issues when spaces fill quickly.
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas often require high-clearance vehicles. At Hickok Brook, Corey notes, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for overnight stays. "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," advises Gregg T. about Hickok Brook. Without proper permits, rangers may require campers to relocate.
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance backpacking: Echo Lake provides an ideal introduction to backpack camping for families with children. "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."
Insect protection: Multiple primitive camping areas report significant bug activity, particularly in warmer months. "Need to bring bug spray. Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray," advises Kate about Echo Lake. Bug nets for children may be necessary during peak summer months.
First-timer accessibility: For families new to primitive camping, Sage's Revine offers established platforms with bear boxes approximately 50 feet apart. "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available," reports Luke A., making it suitable for families concerned about wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle-accessible spots: Few primitive camping options near Accord accommodate RVs. "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup," reports Corey about Hickok Brook, explaining most sites are better suited for tents.
Campsite conditions: When driving larger vehicles, advance information about entrance conditions proves essential. "There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft," warns The L. about Westkill Camp, indicating potential access issues during rainy periods.
Tent options for RVers: Due to limited RV access, some campers recommend bringing tents even when traveling by RV. "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," notes Cory D. about Hemlock Ridge MUA.
