Dispersed camping near Billings, New York offers several primitive sites throughout the Catskill Mountains between 1,500-4,000 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campsites remain open year-round but accessibility becomes challenging during winter snowfall and spring mud season when forest roads become impassable.
What to do
Hiking to elevated viewpoints: Venture beyond Echo Lake to find scenic vistas after moderate climbs. "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," reports James A. about Echo Lake.
River access camping: Find prime streamside sites along the Denning Trail. "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 Ali B. about Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping.
Wildlife observation: The Catskill forests host deer, black bear, foxes, and numerous bird species. "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," explains Doc B. about the natural surroundings at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
What campers like
Cell service with wilderness feel: Some dispersed sites offer the rare combination of seclusion with connectivity. "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. about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
Solitude and simplicity: Many campers appreciate the lack of crowds at lesser-known sites. "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," reports Dawn M. about Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed.
Water features: Several free camping areas near Billings feature ponds or small lakes. "Cool spot next to a pond. There are a few others that aren't next to a pond, and therefore not as cool… but still pretty cool bc it's free and you can walk up a little to a pond," notes Robert F. about the water access at Allaben Primitive Campsites.
What you should know
Limited parking capacity: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal parking spaces. "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," warns Dawn M. about Hemlock Ridge MUA. Similarly, Tim M. notes that Taconic Hereford has "only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Varying site distances: Be prepared for different hike-in requirements. "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," explains a visitor to Hemlock Ridge MUA.
Site selection considerations: Look for elevated spots near water. "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," recommends James A. about Allaben Primitive Campsites, which offers "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. Trails to the fishing access across the road," according to Breanne H.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some sites work well for first-time backcountry camping. "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake," shares Kate about Echo Lake, though noting potential drawbacks including that "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Safety precautions: Cell service varies significantly between sites. "Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return," advises Doc B. about backcountry camping at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which maintains surprisingly good connectivity despite its remote feel.
Convenience factor: Consider proximity to towns for supply runs. Allaben offers a "quick weekend getaway" as Breanne H. notes it's a "nice spot right off the main road and close to town," making it easier to manage with children who may need additional supplies or quick exits during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Free camping near Billings, New York presents significant challenges for larger vehicles. "This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs," cautions Tim M. about Sage's Revine, which is "right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."
Accessibility warnings: RV camping options are extremely limited. "There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs," explains Brendan M. about conditions at Sage's Revine.
Alternative considerations: Most free camping in this region is tent-focused with drive-up options scarce. Luke A. notes that Sage's Revine is "near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms," but these amenities come with RV access limitations.
