Dispersed camping near Dover Plains, New York offers primitive camping options throughout the Taconic Mountains and southern Catskill region. Elevation in this area ranges from approximately 500 feet in the valleys to 2,000 feet in the higher peaks, creating varied terrain for camping. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer nights typically remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Fishing access points: Allaben Primitive Campsites connects directly to fishing areas via walking trails. "Trails to the fishing access across the road," notes camper Breanne H., who appreciated the convenience of this small campsite with its "fire pit with cooking griddle" during a weekend trip.
Mountain hiking: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping serves as a gateway to challenging mountain trails. "Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain," reports Ali B., who found numerous camping spots approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead.
Appalachian Trail sections: The region provides access to portions of the Appalachian Trail, with established campgrounds supporting section hikers. "I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at," says Luke A. about camping options in the area.
What campers like
Secluded lakeside sites: Echo Lake provides tent platforms around its perimeter with elevated camping options. James A. reports, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," noting the area has "a small lean to with a few campfire spots" with additional "campsites scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails."
Cell service with wilderness feel: Many dispersed camping areas maintain sufficient cellular coverage despite their remote settings. At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, Tim M. confirmed having "decent ATT service" while noting the area is "easy to find and access."
Backpacking-friendly distances: Most primitive sites require modest hiking distances, typically under 2 miles from parking areas. This accessibility makes weekend trips manageable for less experienced backpackers. Kate described Echo Lake as "perfect for my first backpacking trip" with its well-defined camping areas.
What you should know
Limited parking capacity: Several primitive camping areas maintain very small parking lots that fill quickly during peak periods. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed has a "parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," according to Dawn M., who found the area offers "a quiet peaceful wooded area" for camping.
Campsite spacing requirements: State land rules typically require camping at least 150 feet from trails, roads, and water sources. Dawn M. notes at Hemlock Ridge there's "only one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road," though campers can "set up your own camp anywhere" following these distance guidelines.
Weekend crowding: Popular primitive areas fill quickly on summer weekends. Sites at Echo Lake "can get a little noisy at night" due to the concentration of campers, particularly at the established lean-to sites near trail access points.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For families new to dispersed camping, start with sites requiring minimal hiking. Allaben Primitive Campsites offers drive-up access with "picnic table, fire pit with cooking griddle" and a "small pond" providing easier logistics for families with young children.
Bug protection: Low-lying areas near water sources experience significant insect activity. James A. recommends families wear pants when exploring "small overgrown trails" around Echo Lake, while other campers suggest avoiding camping directly near lake edges during summer months.
Water considerations: Sage's Revine offers more established facilities with "bathroom is fine, bear boxes available" and "50 feet between platforms," according to Luke A., who noted its location "right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Dover Plains cannot accommodate large camping vehicles. Tim M. warns about Taconic Hereford: "the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Alternative options: RV campers should consider established campgrounds rather than primitive sites. "Was only $25 night. Great looking facilities and friendly staff," notes Icia S. about a developed campground, providing a cost-effective alternative to dispersed camping with vehicle size limitations.
