Best Dispersed Camping near Ellenville, NY

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Ellenville, NY is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Ellenville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ellenville. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ellenville, New York (8)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path."

    2. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    "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."

    3. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    30 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    4. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    5. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    6. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    28 miles

    "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. Trails to the fishing access across the road."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ellenville, NY

10 Reviews of 8 Ellenville Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Corey
    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.

  • Doc B.
    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.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    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) We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    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).

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 28, 2025

    Allaben Primitive Campsites

    Quick Weekend Getaway

    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. Trails to the fishing access across the road.


Guide to Ellenville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ellenville, New York, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed area features 80 acres of forest, allowing campers to set up anywhere 150 feet from the trail, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.
  • For a picturesque experience, the Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping offers camping spots right by the river, perfect for a refreshing morning dip.
  • If you’re looking for a lakeside retreat, Hickok Brook provides a quiet atmosphere with limited sites, ideal for those who enjoy a more intimate camping experience.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ellenville, New York

  • Always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, especially at places like Echo Lake, where the natural beauty can be easily impacted by careless camping habits.
  • Be prepared for bugs, particularly in areas like Hickok Brook, where the lakeside setting can attract a lot of insects during warmer months.
  • Check for accessibility and road conditions before heading to Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping, as some routes may require a hike-in and can be rough for vehicles.

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful environment with plenty of trails to explore, making it perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
  • Campers at Allaben Primitive Campsites can enjoy a drive-in experience, allowing for easy access to the beautiful surroundings without the need for a long hike.
  • For those looking for a more rugged experience, Russell Brook Road offers a drive-in option with a chance to explore the surrounding wilderness, perfect for adventurous spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ellenville, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ellenville, NY is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Ellenville, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.