Best Dispersed Camping near Circleville, NY

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Circleville? 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 Circleville's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Circleville, NY (9)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    3. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    76 Saves
    Claryville, New York

    Description

    Permits for Peekamoose Blue Hole are only necessary on weekends and holidays from mid-May through mid-September of each year. Permits are available as late as a day in advance, but no more than 7 days in advance. There is a limit of 25 permits issued per day. The Blue Hole is a day-use area and is part of the Rondout Creek, which flows through the Peekamoose Valley to the Rondout Reservoir. The reservoir provides almost half of the drinking water for more than 9 million people in the New York City metropolitan area. Help us protect the area - and your drinking water - by observing these regulations: Use the portable toilets for all human waste. If you carry it in, carry it out - use the dumpsters. Camping, fires and portable generators are allowed only at designated campsites downstream of the Blue Hole. No radios and other audio devices. No glass containers. Except for the designated camping sites, the Peekamoose Corridor is open to the public from onehalf hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • No image available

      4. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

      2 Reviews
      69 Saves
      Verbank, New York

      The 917-acre Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area is one of the largest state forests in Dutchess County. Most trails on this property allow multiple uses. It is very popular with mountain bikers, horseback riders, and dog walkers. Please be respectful of all users. Primitive Camping Camping at two designated sites is permitted on a first-come-first-serve basis. They're located on the west side of Brockway Road, south of Tyrrel Road. At-large primitive camping is also allowed. At-large campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake

      5. Echo Lake

      1 Review
      3 Photos
      114 Saves
      Woodstock, New York
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Firewood Available
      • Alcohol
      • No image available

        6. Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping

        Be the first to review!
        25 Saves
        Highmount, New York

        Map: https://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/recmapbiwa.pdf

        There are five lean-tos located trailside throughout the area, each supported by a seasonal water source and pit privy. Other designated campsites are marked with a yellow "Camp Here" disc. In addition, primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

        State law also prohibits camping above 3500 feet in elevation from March 22nd to December 21st each year. In a Wilderness Area, group size is limited to a maximum of 12. Larger groups may be accommodated in any of the Forest Preserve's Wild Forest areas such as nearby Balsam Lake Mountain or Willowemoc Wild Forests.

        Water is relatively scarce in the Catskills. It is not unusual for the springs and streams in this area to run dry during the summer months. The department cannot ensure the purity of any water source. Boil all water for 2 minutes, filter or treat chemically.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Dispersed
        • No image available

          7. Allaben Primitive Campsites

          Be the first to review!
          21 Saves
          Shandaken, New York

          There are 8 designated campsites, but at-large primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Range

            • No image available
              • No image available
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              Showing results 1-9 of 9 campgrounds

              Recent Dispersed Reviews in Circleville

              7 Reviews of 9 Circleville Campgrounds


              • GThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
                Aug. 26, 2024

                Hickok Brook

                Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

                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... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I 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.

              • Corey The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
                Jun. 17, 2024

                Hickok Brook

                Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

                I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. 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. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

              • 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.


              Drive Time


              Guide to Circleville

              Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Circleville, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

              Dispersed campers should check out Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

              • Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed offers a unique experience with no amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. You can camp anywhere 150 feet from the trail, making it a flexible option for those seeking solitude.
              • The small parking lot accommodates about ten cars, providing easy access to the 80 acres of forested land. Be prepared for relentless bugs, so pack your insect repellent.
              • Many climbers frequent this spot for its proximity to the Gunks, making it a popular choice for those looking to combine camping with climbing adventures.

              Tips for free and dispersed camping near Circleville, New York

              • When visiting Hickok Brook, remember that there are only three camping spots available, so arrive early to secure your place.
              • The road leading to the camping area can be rough, so good vehicle clearance is essential if you're planning to drive close to the sites.
              • This location is a peaceful retreat, but be aware that it can get crowded during holiday weekends, so plan accordingly.

              Enjoy beautiful lakeside views while free camping near Circleville

              • Echo Lake features tent sites around the lake, complete with fire pits, making it an ideal spot for a cozy evening under the stars.
              • The area is well-shaded, but be cautious of swampy conditions near the lake's edge, so bringing bug spray is a smart move.
              • While it can get a bit noisy at night due to other campers, the stunning scenery and natural beauty make it a worthwhile experience.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Circleville, NY?

                According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Circleville, NY is Hickok Brook with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

                TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Circleville, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.