Rustic camping near Feura Bush, New York centers around state forests within the eastern Catskill foothills, with elevations ranging from 400-1,500 feet. The region experiences seasonal extremes with humid summers reaching 80°F and winter temperatures often falling below freezing. Forest roads throughout these areas typically remain unplowed during winter months, requiring proper vehicle preparation and equipment for cold-weather access.
What to do
Hiking forest trails: Near Ushers Road State Forest, visitors can access bicycle-friendly trails with varying terrain. "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area," reports a camper.
Wildlife observation: The George D Aiken Wilderness area provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain," notes one visitor who encountered optimal wildlife viewing conditions during early mornings.
Stream fishing: Seasonal brook fishing can be productive in smaller waterways. A Betty Brook Camp regular explains, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," making it convenient for anglers to access water directly from their sites.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers at Echo Lake consistently mention the lake setting. "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails," shares one visitor who recommends wearing pants for these trails.
Solitude: The dispersed nature of sites appeals to those seeking quiet. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping, campers note, "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none."
Fire rings: Most established sites feature fire rings. "This spot is right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers," reports a visitor to Burnt Rossman State Forest, highlighting the practical setup.
What you should know
Road condition variability: Forest roads require careful navigation. At Duck Pond Campsite, a visitor warns, "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived at surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Seasonal wetness: Spring and fall bring increased moisture to many sites. A camper at Echo Lake notes, "It can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits. At Jug End, confusion exists about regulations as one visitor states, "This is a hiking trail only- no camping per website," while others report camping there. Contact local ranger stations before planning overnight stays.
Waste management: Without facilities, proper waste disposal becomes critical. One visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness observed, "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it." Always pack out waste or bury appropriately at required depths.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priority: Families should target sites with easier vehicle access. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, a visitor notes, "Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!" making it suitable for families with children and gear.
Backup location plans: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends and during peak season. One NFR 273 visitor shared, "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Bug protection: Insect management becomes essential for family comfort. A camper at NFR 273 warns, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Local emergency services: Research nearest medical facilities before arrival. Cell service remains unreliable throughout most camping areas, with visitors reporting "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small RVs or truck campers. "The site itself was pretty nice, fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it," warns a Duck Pond visitor.
Alternative exit routes: Scout multiple access points before committing larger vehicles. One camper recommends, "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Leveling challenges: Prepare adequate leveling blocks for uneven terrain. A visitor to Betty Brook Camp observed, "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
