Dispersed camping sites near Chester, New York range from heavily wooded areas to locations with small water bodies. These primitive camping areas in the Hudson Valley region typically sit at elevations between 500-1,200 feet, experiencing cool nights even in summer with temperature drops of 15-20 degrees after sunset. Seasonal conditions vary dramatically, with spring bringing muddy access roads and fall offering the driest camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping offers access to challenging mountain hikes. According to Ali B., there are "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."
Wildlife viewing: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park spans 900+ acres that connect to additional protected forest lands. Doc B. reports the area has "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."
Hammock camping: When tent sites prove challenging, hammock camping works well at several locations. Katharine T. notes that at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, there are "good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine."
What campers like
Off-grid seclusion: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides a genuine primitive camping experience with minimal facilities. Dawn M. shares, "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."
Streamside camping: Several dispersed areas offer water-adjacent primitive sites. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. describes, "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town."
Balance of wilderness and accessibility: Some sites offer a wilderness feel while maintaining connections to civilization. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Jason R. found that "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several areas require permits that must be obtained before arrival. Gregg T. learned this at Hickok Brook when he "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."
Vehicle access limitations: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 requires hiking in. Renee Z. cautions that "as you enter the Worthington State Forest there are signs and hand painted maps indicating that this is the only place you can sleep in the forest."
Water availability: Water sources are limited or nonexistent at most sites. Katharine T. mentions "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)" at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, while most other primitive camping areas require bringing all water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety considerations: Lakeside camping requires vigilance with children. At Hickok Brook, sites are extremely limited but do offer lakeside access, with Corey noting the area is "very gorgeous but not rv friendly."
Bear precautions: Thunder Swamp Trailhead and other sites in the region require proper food storage. Katharine T. mentions that Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is "well maintained w bear boxes provided."
Tent site selection: Many primitive camping areas have limited flat spaces. Renee Z. warns that Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!"
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Most primitive camping areas near Chester have rough access roads. Corey reports that at Hickok Brook, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Parking limitations: Benjamin H. notes that Thunder Swamp Trailhead is essentially "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," making it one of the few viable options for overnight vehicle parking in the region.
