Dispersed camping near Delhi, New York includes multiple primitive sites across state forests within 30-60 minutes of town. Most sites are situated at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet in the western Catskills region, characterized by mixed hardwood forests, small streams, and occasional ponds. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through March, while summer daytime averages reach the mid-70s with cooler evenings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several dispersed camping areas provide stream and pond access for anglers. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers can utilize "trails to the fishing access across the road" according to visitor Breanne H., who notes the site's convenience "right off the main road and close to town."
Hiking connections: The region offers numerous trail systems connecting campsites to longer routes. At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, Ali B. describes "great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead" with "a lot of spots right by the river," adding it's a "great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain."
Winter recreation: Some areas maintain seasonal accessibility for cold-weather activities. Felix R. found that Burnt Rossman State Forest "was a great location for winter camping" with a "site easily accessible from road," though conditions vary significantly across the region.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Many campers value the relative isolation of these primitive sites. Robert B. notes about Betty Brook Camp: "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."
Water proximity: Stream and pond access ranks highly in camper reviews. At Echo Lake, James A. describes a "beautiful lake with lean to" where they "camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Natural features: The region's diverse topography creates varied camping experiences. Yae U. found Duck Pond Campsite to be "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites" where "the pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad," adding "So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to many sites present challenges, particularly for low-clearance vehicles. The L. warns about Duck Pond Campsite: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse," adding "the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it."
Cell coverage: Most primitive sites have limited or no connectivity. The L. noted "intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads" at Duck Pond, while Joshua M. reported he "was unable to get cell reception with Verizon" at Beals Pond State Forest.
Seasonal accessibility: Winter conditions restrict access to many sites. Joshua M. found Beals Pond State Forest "is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Some areas offer more family-friendly amenities than others. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, you'll find "picnic table, fire pit with cooking griddle" according to Breanne H., making meal preparation more manageable with children.
Space considerations: Group size affects site suitability. The L. notes that Burnt Rossman State Forest "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."
Wildlife awareness: Ticks pose a health risk throughout the region. Janet R. warns when visiting Whaupaunaucau State Forest to "beware of ticks, they are invading the region" despite its "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate only smaller rigs. Peter from Betty Brook Camp cautions: "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."
Amenity planning: Bring all essential supplies as facilities are minimal. Robert B. confirms Betty Brook Camp lets you "camp on the stream" but only has "a couple of spots," requiring self-sufficiency and advance preparation.
Site spacing: Popular areas can become crowded during peak seasons. Kate at Echo Lake notes: "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."
