Dispersed camping opportunities near Castleton-on-Hudson, New York extend beyond the immediate area into the surrounding Catskills, Berkshires, and Green Mountains. The region sits at the intersection of three states with varying regulations for rustic camping. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing with significant snowfall, while summer nights remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Explore waterside settings: Betty Brook Camp provides streamside camping with easy water access. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," notes one reviewer who has been visiting Betty Brook Camp for decades.
Winter camping options: The forested areas around Castleton-on-Hudson remain accessible year-round for experienced winter campers. A visitor to Burnt Rossman State Forest reported, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Hiking and backpacking: The region connects with multiple trail systems including the Appalachian Trail. Platforms are available at some locations for backpackers. According to one hiker at Sage's Revine, "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The Green Mountain National Forest sites offer good separation. According to a camper at NFR 273, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on. There were only about 10 spots along the access road."
Local amenities within driving distance: While sites are primitive, many are reasonably close to small towns. One George D Aiken Wilderness visitor mentioned, "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Elevated camping spots: Several camping areas offer higher ground options. At Echo Lake, one camper reported, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require navigating unpaved roads that can become challenging. A Duck Pond Campsite visitor warned, "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."
Weather impacts: Recent rainfall can significantly affect site conditions and access. At George D Aiken Wilderness, a camper observed, "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side."
Seasonal crowds: Even remote sites can fill up during peak periods. For access to NFR 273, one camper noted, "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation essential: Wooded and water-adjacent sites often have significant insect activity. A camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot reported, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Check for facilities: Most rustic camping near Castleton-on-Hudson lacks amenities like toilets or running water. The sites at Echo Lake include "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."
Site selection timing: Arriving early improves site selection options. One camper noted about reaching the best spots, "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 from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large RVs. At Ushers Road State Forest, a reviewer noted the site includes "a stone fire ring" but indicated limited space that might only fit smaller vehicles.
Ground conditions: Many sites have soft ground that can cause problems for heavier vehicles. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, a camper cautioned, "Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft."
Space estimates: Some sites have clear capacity limits. A Burnt Rossman visitor specified, "There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers."
