Fishkill, NY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Fishkill campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Fishkill, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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 non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."
"Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."
"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."
GuideThis 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.
Scout99% 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.
RangerThis 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.
TravelerIf 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
RangerThis is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area
TravelerLake 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.
TravelerGreat 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.
TravelerGreat 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).
TravelerNice 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.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fishkill, New York, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping sites in Fishkill?
Several dispersed camping options exist near Fishkill. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers a quiet forest setting for true primitive camping just 10 minutes from town, perfect for those seeking seclusion. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides 80 acres of forest with dispersed camping allowed 150 feet from trails. Both locations require self-sufficiency as they have minimal or no amenities. Be prepared to hike in to find suitable campsites, bring all necessary supplies, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Fishkill?
Dispersed camping near Fishkill typically follows standard backcountry regulations. At Echo Lake, camping is permitted around the lake with designated fire pits available. Most areas require camping at least 150 feet from trails and water sources. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping has sites about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Leave No Trace principles apply throughout the region – pack out all trash, properly store food to prevent wildlife encounters, and follow fire restrictions. Some areas may require permits, so check with local land management agencies before your trip.
Is dispersed camping in Fishkill available year-round?
Dispersed camping availability near Fishkill varies seasonally. While technically possible year-round, winter brings challenging conditions requiring specialized gear and experience. Allaben Primitive Campsites offers access throughout different seasons with its location right off the main road. Sage's Revine on the Appalachian Trail is another option, though seasonal restrictions may apply. Spring can bring swampy conditions, especially at lower elevations. Summer and fall generally provide the most accessible camping conditions. Always check for seasonal road closures, fire restrictions, and weather advisories before your trip.
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