Dispersed camping near Andes, New York provides access to the western Catskill Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,500 feet. Many primitive camping locations in state forests require navigation along seasonal roads that become impassable during wet conditions or winter months. The region encompasses numerous watershed areas that supply drinking water to New York City, contributing to strict regulations on camping practices.
What to do
Hiking from camp: The dispersed camping at Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping provides direct access to mountain trails. "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain," reports camper Ali B.
Fishing opportunities: Many primitive sites are positioned near streams with fishing access. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers can enjoy "trails to the fishing access across the road," according to Breanne H., who also notes the convenience of being "close to town" for supply runs.
Lake exploration: The area offers backcountry lake camping for those willing to hike in. James A. describes Echo Lake as "surrounded by hills" with camping spots that provide "a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze." The lake features "tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail."
What campers like
Stream-side camping: Free camping near Andes, New York often includes water features. At Betty Brook Camp, Robert B. appreciates that "you camp on the stream" and notes the remote nature of the site: "Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people."
Quiet seclusion: Duck Pond Campsite offers isolation despite rough access. Camper Yae U. reports finding "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites" after driving an unpaved dirt road, adding "So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
Lean-to availability: For backpackers seeking shelter options, select sites offer rustic structures. At Hickok Brook, the camping area is limited but peaceful. One camper notes "It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping sites near Andes require high-clearance vehicles. At Hickok Brook, camper Corey warns "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."
Limited cell service: Communication can be difficult throughout the region. One Duck Pond visitor reported "intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads." At Beals Pond State Forest, Joshua M. similarly noted being "unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Permit requirements: Camping on New York state land requires proper authorization. As Gregg T. discovered at Hickok Brook, "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Seasonal access limitations: Winter camping options become restricted due to road maintenance issues. Joshua M. reports that Beals Pond State Forest "is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter."
Tips for camping with families
Select accessible sites: For camping with children, choose locations with shorter walks from parking. At Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, The L. notes the site is "right off the road" but still "nice and quiet" with "enough room for 2 to 3 campers."
Plan for insects: Catskills camping often involves dealing with bugs, particularly near water. At Echo Lake, Kate advises "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray." Similarly, Yae U. mentions at Duck Pond that "the pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."
Pack extra supplies: With minimal facilities, family camping requires bringing all essentials. Peter, who lives near Betty Brook Camp, emphasizes its remoteness, noting "there's a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping locations near Andes can only accommodate smaller vehicles. Peter cautions about Betty Brook Camp: "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small." Similarly, at Hickok Brook, Corey arrived "thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup" but found it "not rv friendly."
Road condition awareness: Access roads to no-cost camping areas frequently present challenges. The L. warns about Duck Pond Campsite: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it."
Winter preparation: For cold weather camping, select accessible locations. Felix R. found Burnt Rossman State Forest "a great location for winter camping" with a "site easily accessible from road."
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