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Best Dispersed Camping near Fishkill, NY

13 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas exist near Fishkill, New York, with Hemlock Ridge MUA and Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park being the closest options. These primitive sites require hikers to trek in and establish camp at least 150 feet from trails, with no amenities available. Hemlock Ridge features 80 acres of forested land with limited parking for 4-6 vehicles. Taconic Hereford spans over 900 acres of protected forest and maintains cell service despite its secluded feel. A visitor noted it's "less than 10 min drive from town, but hiking in has the feeling of the wild."

For those willing to travel further, Echo Lake in the Catskills offers lakeside tent sites with fire pits and a lean-to. Denning Trailhead provides riverside camping spots approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Allaben Primitive Campsites allows both tent and RV camping with drive-in access, featuring a small pond, picnic table, and fire pit with cooking griddle. Most dispersed sites follow standard Leave No Trace principles and prohibit camping during specific seasons or require permits in some cases.

Map showing campgrounds near Fishkill, New YorkExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fishkill, New York (7)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    10 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. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    16 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."

    "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."

    3. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    40 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."

    4. Sage's Revine

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, CT
    42 miles
    Website

    "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."

    5. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    41 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."

    6. Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    South Egremont, MA
    48 miles
    Website

    "Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."

    7. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    46 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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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Fishkill, NY

7 Photos of 7 Fishkill Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fishkill, NY

13 Reviews of 7 Fishkill 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 Fishkill

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.

Hidden Gems for Dispersed Campers

  • The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers a peaceful retreat with a variety of trails to explore, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • For a truly wild experience, check out Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, where you can camp right by the river and wake up ready to hike to nearby mountains.
  • If you're seeking a quiet spot surrounded by nature, Echo Lake features tent sites around a picturesque lake, ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Fishkill, New York

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Echo Lake

  • The Echo Lake area is known for its scenic views and well-shaded sites, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a peaceful camping experience.
  • With fire pits available, you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars while camping at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
  • Be mindful of the potential for bugs near the water, so bringing bug spray is advisable when visiting Echo Lake.

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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