The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Esopus, NY

13 Reviews

Several primitive camping areas surround Esopus, New York, with Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offering hike-in access to free dispersed sites across its 900-acre forest. Hemlock Ridge MUA provides similar primitive camping opportunities within a quieter wooded setting about 150 feet from access trails. Both locations require strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles and offer no amenities or facilities.

The Catskill region contains additional dispersed options, including Echo Lake with lakeside tent sites and a lean-to shelter, and Denning Trailhead which requires a 1.5-mile hike to reach campsites along a river. Allaben Primitive Campsites offers drive-in access with basic fire pits. Cell service varies significantly between locations, with one camper noting that despite Taconic Hereford's remote feel, it maintains "full cell service" while Hemlock Ridge has "barely even a signal." Most areas permit campfires except during restriction periods, and all sites accommodate tents while very few can handle RVs due to narrow access roads and limited parking.

Map showing campgrounds near Esopus, New YorkExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Esopus, New York (9)

Show More
Showing results 1-9 of 9 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Esopus Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Esopus, NY

7 Photos of 9 Esopus Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Esopus, NY

13 Reviews of 9 Esopus 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.

  • 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

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.

  • 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.

  • Luke A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2018

    Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Jug End Campground, Great Spot for Section Hikers and All.

    Great spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at. Trash cans, but carry out is preferable.

Guide to Esopus

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Esopus, New York, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while taking advantage of the area's stunning landscapes.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Esopus

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails surrounding Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, which offers access to breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
  • Wildlife watching is a must, especially in the expansive forests near Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, where you can spot various species in their natural habitat.
  • Fishing opportunities abound at Echo Lake, providing a peaceful way to spend your day while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Esopus, New York

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of areas like Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the same pristine environment.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping has no drinking water or electric hookups, so bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly, especially in spots like Sage's Revine, where conditions can change rapidly in the wilderness.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Esopus, NY is Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Esopus, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring