Dispersed camping sites near Bethel, New York often require navigation through unmarked forest areas. The Catskill region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Most primitive campsites require visitors to carry in all necessary supplies and carry out all waste, with virtually no services available on site.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: The primitive sites along Denning Trailhead offer strategic positioning for hikers tackling nearby peaks. According to a visitor, "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."
Rock climbing access: Hemlock Ridge MUA serves as a base camp for climbers heading to nearby climbing routes. A camper noted, "Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless." The site allows camping anywhere 150 feet from the designated trail.
Fishing opportunities: Some dispersed sites provide access to fishing areas. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, "Trails to the fishing access across the road" make it convenient to combine camping with angling, though one visitor mentioned there's a "Small pond-don't think there are any fish."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many primitive sites offer lakeside camping opportunities. At Echo Lake, "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)."
Quiet seclusion: Hemlock Ridge MUA provides peaceful camping away from crowds. One camper reported, "It's quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight." The lack of facilities contributes to fewer visitors.
Cooking amenities: Some sites include basic cooking setups. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers appreciate the "Fire pit with cooking griddle" which simplifies meal preparation in these rustic settings.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require permits. At Hickok Brook, one camper discovered: "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."
Winter accessibility: Many primitive sites become difficult or impossible to access during winter months. A visitor to Beals Pond State Forest reported: "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Overcrowding potential: Free camping areas can fill quickly during peak seasons. At Echo Lake, one camper observed: "It does 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."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock-friendly sites: For families with multiple sleeping arrangements, some areas offer good hammocking options. At the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, campers found "Good trees for hammocking" making it versatile for different shelter setups.
Bear safety precautions: Some camping areas provide bear protection infrastructure. The Appalachian Trail site includes "bear boxes provided" which helps families store food safely away from sleeping areas.
Water planning: Water sources are limited at most primitive sites. One hiker advised about the Appalachian Trail sites: "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)," highlighting the importance of water planning for families.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Free camping near Bethel often involves challenging access roads. A visitor to Thunder Swamp Trailhead described it simply as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Limited RV options: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Hickok Brook, a camper warned: "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."
Small RV parking: For those with compact rigs, some dispersed areas offer minimal parking. One camper at Hemlock Ridge mentioned, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight" suggesting only the smallest RVs could potentially use these areas.
