Best Dispersed Camping near Cairo, NY

Looking for dispersed camping near Cairo? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Cairo's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cairo, NY (14)

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Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Cairo

10 Reviews of 14 Cairo Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty Brook Camp
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Betty Brook Camp

    One of my favorite

    Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty Brook Camp
    Dec. 17, 2023

    Betty Brook Camp

    Pretty good place

    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. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
    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.

  • Doc B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
    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.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    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. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    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.

  • Luke A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage's Revine
    Oct. 3, 2018

    Sage's Revine

    Fantastic spot, right near water. 12 platforms available.

    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. Great spot, highly recommend.


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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 1 review.

  • 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.