Dispersed camping near Durham, New York offers primitive sites scattered throughout several state forests. Winter camping opportunities exist in areas like Burnt Rossman State Forest, where snow-covered terrain transforms the camping experience. The Catskill Mountain region provides forest settings with varying elevations, though most sites remain accessible without extensive hiking.
What to do
Fishing access: Near Allaben Primitive Campsites, trails lead to fishing access points across from the main camping area. "Trails to the fishing access across the road," notes one camper who visited for a weekend trip.
Mountain hiking: The area surrounding Echo Lake provides multiple hiking opportunities with established trails. A camper reports, "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)."
Cycling: State forests offer natural terrain for mountain biking enthusiasts. A visitor to Ushers Road State Forest shared their experience: "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate sites located adjacent to moving water. At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, a visitor mentioned, "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river."
Winter accessibility: Cold weather camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. One camper at Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp noted, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Wildlife viewing: Several sites offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Fort Plain Lock 15, a camper mentioned, "It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license). Verizon cell service is good here."
What you should know
Seasonal terrain changes: Weather conditions significantly affect site accessibility. At Ushers Road State Forest, a camper observed, "The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. At Betty Brook Camp, visitors should prepare for self-sufficiency as it's "remote, sometimes you never see anyone."
Navigation challenges: Many campsites require traveling on unmaintained roads. At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, a visitor advised, "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You'll see signs that say 'No Vehicles Past This Point' — those apply only to the grassy picnic area."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for flatter terrain with natural barriers between campsites. Echo Lake offers family-friendly options where "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."
Noise considerations: Some areas experience traffic and train noise. If camping with light sleepers, select more isolated locations. At Fort Plain Lock 15, a visitor noted, "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving."
Water access: Select sites with safe water access for children. Allaben provides "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond-don't think there are any fish. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles only. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, a camper noted, "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."
Parking surfaces: Uneven terrain presents challenges for leveling. One visitor described Fort Plain Lock 15 as having "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River."
Water availability: Most sites lack hookups, requiring self-contained water supplies. Some locations like Fort Plain Lock 15 offer limited access: "At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter."
