Best Dispersed Camping near Cairo, NY

Cairo, NY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Cairo is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Cairo, NY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cairo, New York (14)

    1. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    2. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    22 miles

    "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."

    4. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    29 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    5. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    28 miles

    "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."

    "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads"

    6. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    30 miles

    "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."

    "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots"

    7. Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    South Egremont, MA
    31 miles
    Website

    "Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."

    8. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    "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."

    9. Sage's Revine

    1 Review
    Taconic, CT
    33 miles
    Website

    "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."

    10. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    41 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."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cairo, NY

18 Reviews of 14 Cairo Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    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.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  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.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

  • 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.

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Open quite campsites

    After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Small vehicle only

    The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. The site itself, was pretty nice, Fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads

  • 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

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    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.


Guide to Cairo

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cairo, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers several spots that cater to different camping preferences, making it an ideal destination for adventurers.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Cairo

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails around Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, which features beautiful spots right by the river, perfect for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
  • Experience the tranquility of Duck Pond Campsite, where you can unwind by the pond and take in the peaceful surroundings, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
  • Engage in fishing or simply relax by the stream at Betty Brook Camp, where the remote setting allows for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Cairo, New York

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles at Echo Lake to preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensure that it remains pristine for future visitors.
  • Be prepared for varying conditions, especially at Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, where accessibility can change with the seasons, making it a great spot for winter camping.
  • Bring bug spray when camping near water sources, such as at Duck Pond Campsite, as the proximity to water can attract mosquitoes, especially during warmer months.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Visit the picturesque landscapes surrounding Rensselaerville State Forest, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the forest.
  • Explore the remote beauty of Allaben Primitive Campsites, which offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature away from crowded areas.
  • Take advantage of the hiking opportunities at Featherstonhaugh State Forest Site, where you can discover hidden trails and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cairo, NY is Echo Lake with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Cairo, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.