Dispersed camping near Cobleskill, New York offers opportunities in multiple state forests across Schoharie County and surrounding areas. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet, creating varied camping terrain with both wooded sites and water-adjacent locations. Seasonal considerations are important as spring brings muddy conditions to many access roads, while fall offers cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, campers can fish directly from the riverbank. "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license)," reports Mona M.
Bike trail access: Ushers Road State Forest provides connections to multiple bike-friendly paths. One visitor notes, "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."
Wildlife observation: Multiple primitive sites offer chances to observe local fauna. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, the pond area attracts various wildlife. "Cool spot next to a pond. There are a few others that aren't next to a pond, and therefore not as cool... but still pretty cool bc it's free and you can walk up a little to a pond," writes Robert F.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many primitive camping sites near Cobleskill feature water access. At Betty Brook Camp, one reviewer states, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," while another mentions they "love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now."
Seclusion: The remote nature of these sites appeals to many visitors seeking quiet. "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people," notes a Betty Brook Camp visitor. Another camper at Echo Lake shares, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Winter accessibility: Some sites remain accessible during colder months, extending the camping season. A Burnt Rossman State Forest visitor mentions, "Beautiful, peaceful, great time!" regarding their winter camping experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites vary significantly in quality. At Duck Pond Campsite, a camper warns, "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites... Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Noise considerations: Not all sites offer complete silence. One Fort Plain Lock 15 visitor notes, "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving." Another camper adds, "Lots of trains rolling through across the river but the noise wasn't an issue for me."
Site availability: Most primitive sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations. "It's June, and there are 3 other groups here. 1 boat, and 2 tent camping. The parking lot is still empty," reports a Fort Plain Lock 15 visitor about peak season conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Duck Pond Campsite, one visitor cautions, "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads." Plan communications accordingly when traveling with children.
Amenities access: Most primitive sites lack basic facilities. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, campers should note, "This spot is right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft."
Kid-friendly locations: Some sites offer easier access and amenities that work better for families. Allaben Primitive Campsites features "a picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road," according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites near Cobleskill accommodate only smaller rigs. Peter from Betty Brook Camp advises, "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."
Parking surfaces: Finding level spots can be challenging at some locations. At Fort Plain Lock 15, one RVer reports, "This was a quiet overnight stay, just as the other reviewers say, a gravel parking lot that is easy to find a level spot in. This is on the river with a nice view."
Overnight verification: Some sites have patrol checks but allow overnight camping. "There was a police officer that drove through the lot and drove around my campervan and continued on his way so I know that it is okay to overnight there," notes one Fort Plain Lock 15 visitor.
