Best Dispersed Camping near Arden, NY

Are you in need of a campground near Arden, NY? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Arden is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Arden camping trip.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Arden, New York (5)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    26 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."

    2. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    38 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."

    3. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    41 miles

    "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."

    "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."

    4. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    49 miles

    "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

    "Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Arden, NY

5 Photos of 5 Arden Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Arden, NY

6 Reviews of 5 Arden Campgrounds


  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. 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. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • 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

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. 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.


Guide to Arden

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Arden, New York, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the freedom of choosing their own sites amidst stunning landscapes.

Dispersed campers should check out Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

  • Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed features a trail that winds through 80 acres of forest, allowing campers to set up anywhere 150 feet from the trail.

Top activities while free camping near Arden

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the numerous trails available at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which offers a peaceful environment perfect for wildlife observation and nature walks.

Scenic lakeside spots for dispersed campers

  • The picturesque setting at Hickok Brook provides beautiful lakeside tent sites, ideal for those looking to relax by the water while enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Arden, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Arden, NY is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Arden, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Arden, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.