Dispersed camping sites around Athens, New York offer primitive backcountry experiences primarily throughout the Catskill region. Many locations require hiking to access established sites while others allow direct vehicle access on forest service roads. Winter camping options exist at several locations including Burnt Rossman State Forest where sites remain accessible during colder months despite challenging conditions.
What to do
Hiking and stream access: Betty Brook Camp provides access to extensive walking trails within state forest land. Located along West Kill Road with a stream alongside the camping area. "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," notes Robert B., who has frequented the area for decades.
Mountain climbing: Denning Trailhead offers primitive camping spots as a basecamp for more ambitious hiking. "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," according to Ali B., who notes a lean-to option near the mountain summit.
Wildlife observation: The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area encompasses over 900 acres adjacent to protected forests. "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," mentions Doc B., who recommends telling someone your plans before heading into this secluded area.
What campers like
Accessibility with solitude: Betty Brook Camp balances accessibility with isolation. "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away," explains Peter, who lives nearby but cautions the site is too small for large trailers.
Lake views: Echo Lake provides a unique elevated camping experience. "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," reports James A., who notes the main area contains a lean-to while additional campsites require navigating overgrown trails.
Wilderness camping with safety: Despite its rugged feel, Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers both isolation and connectivity. "Hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service," notes Doc B., highlighting the balance between remoteness and accessibility.
What you should know
Road conditions: Duck Pond Campsite requires careful vehicle selection. "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads," cautions The L., who recommends small vehicles only despite the site's appeal.
Campsite preparation: Echo Lake requires appropriate clothing for site access. "Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)," advises James A., while Kate adds, "It can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Site limitations: Tim M. notes Taconic Hereford's physical constraints: "There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Echo Lake provides an ideal introduction to backcountry camping. "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits," shares Kate, though she warns it "can get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others."
Accessible sites with amenities: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers convenient access for families with young 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., mentioning nearby fishing access across the road.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations in the Catskills require appropriate gear year-round. Nights can drop below freezing even in summer months, particularly at higher elevations like Echo Lake where wind exposure increases.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites near Athens have severe limitations for larger vehicles. Peter specifically notes that Betty Brook Camp "is fairly small" and would "not recommend this for large trailers" despite the drive-in access.
Turnaround challenges: Narrow forest roads create navigation difficulties. "The road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs," warns Tim M. about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, despite its convenient location and cell service.
Seasonal considerations: Winter access remains possible but requires preparation. Felix R. found Burnt Rossman State Forest's Westkill Camp "a great location for winter camping" with the "site easily accessible from road," though winter conditions may require additional traction equipment.
