Primitive camping near Ashland, New York offers several backcountry options in the Catskill region, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and mild summers, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most dispersed sites sit near small streams or ponds and require visitors to follow standard Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: Denning Trailhead provides access to backcountry camping approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead parking area. "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," notes camper Ali B.
Wildlife viewing: Fort Plain Lock 15 offers opportunities to observe local wildlife along the Mohawk River. "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)," shares Mona M., who also mentions "The resident peacock has been keeping me company."
Fishing access: Several camping areas provide stream or pond fishing opportunities. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers appreciate the "trails to the fishing access across the road," according to Breanne H. Most fishing spots require a valid New York fishing license, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers true backcountry camping with modern safety benefits. "99% of 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," writes Doc B.
Water features: Echo Lake primitive campsites surround a small mountain lake. James A. describes it as "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."
Winter options: Some sites remain accessible year-round for cold-weather camping. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, Felix R. reports "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites can be challenging. At Duck Pond Campsite, camper Yae U. advises, "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived at surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites... Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions." Another camper notes, "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Site availability: Primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Echo Lake can "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," according to Kate.
Facilities: Most sites lack amenities beyond fire rings. Fort Plain Lock 15 represents an exception, offering "pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter," according to Mona M. Prepare to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Allaben Primitive Campsites provides easier access for families with children. "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," notes Breanne H.
Bug preparedness: Wet areas near lakes and ponds can harbor insects, particularly during summer months. At Echo Lake, Kate advises, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray." Duck Pond Campsite may offer some relief as "The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."
Terrain navigation: Many primitive sites require hiking on unmaintained trails. At Echo Lake, James A. mentions campsites "are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)." Plan appropriate footwear and clothing for potentially rough terrain.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Small trailers and campervans can access some primitive sites, but larger rigs should avoid most dispersed areas. At Fort Plain Lock 15, The L. describes, "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River." However, at most other sites, vehicle size is restricted.
Parking considerations: Limited parking exists at most primitive sites. Fort Plain Lock 15 offers parking lot camping where "the parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by," according to The L.
Waste disposal: RVers must plan for proper waste disposal as most sites lack facilities. Fort Plain Lock 15 is one of few dispersed sites with sanitary dump access. Most other locations require self-contained systems and pack-out practices.
