Dispersed camping opportunities around Glenmont, New York range from backcountry sites in the Catskills to more accessible options in state forests within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the eastern edge of the Helderberg Mountains, with elevations ranging from 200 feet near the Hudson River to over 2,000 feet in nearby mountain areas. Most primitive sites require proper preparation for varying weather conditions, particularly in spring when nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking through rock gardens: At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, trails present challenging terrain for backpackers. One camper described the experience as "a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens," noting that "the trail used to be a stream or creek." The difficult climb rewards hikers with multiple scenic viewpoints.
Water activities: Alander Trail Campground provides campers with proximity to streams and small bodies of water. Located approximately 35 miles southeast of Glenmont, this area offers multiple private sites after a 1.5-2 mile hike. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots," explains one visitor.
Mountain biking: The trail system at Ushers Road State Forest accommodates cyclists with relatively flat terrain. A visitor noted the "bicycle-friendly nature trails" with options to explore in multiple directions. The paths eventually transition "into a low-lying, swampy area," providing varied scenery for day rides from camp.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at primitive sites near Glenmont. At Duck Pond Campsite, located southwest of Glenmont, visitors enjoy the solitude. One camper noted: "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. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
Bear safety amenities: At Alander Trail Campground, campers highlight the bear-resistant storage provided. "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," reports one visitor. Another noted the area was "emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!"
Sunrise views: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp earns praise for its spectacular vistas. One camper succinctly described it as the "Best site in Catskills, sunrise and sunset." Others mention multiple lookout points along the trail system. The campsite before the first ledge "has rock benches and a fire pit" according to an experienced backpacker.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites requires navigating rough roads. Regarding Duck Pond Campsite, one camper warned: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it." They also mentioned "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Water sources: Identifying reliable water access is essential for tent camping near Glenmont. At Giant Ledge, campers report that "The spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp." Campers should bring water filtration equipment for all backcountry sites.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are present throughout the region's camping areas. A Giant Ledge camper reported: "Thought I heard bears come through overnight, but may have been a lucid dream. Bear can was undisturbed in the morning." Another advised: "Bring a bear bell and bear mace can to be safe. We did not see any but definite signs of them."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Echo Lake provides an accessible introduction to backcountry camping for families. A visitor observed that the sites are "relatively flat and well shaded with trees," and another noted, "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."
Campsite selection timing: Arriving early improves your chances of securing preferred sites at popular areas. At Echo Lake, one camper observed: "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."
Trail difficulty assessment: When planning the best tent camping near Glenmont with children, consider terrain challenges. At Giant Ledge, a hiker advised: "Get tracking poles if you don't already have some. Very helpful here," while another noted that the trail "doesn't wind its way up the mountain, someone picked a side and said 'we go up from here, straight up.'"
Tips from RVers
Small vehicle considerations: Seth Warner Shelter, located northeast of Glenmont in Vermont, requires careful planning for RV campers. Although primarily a hike-in location, it offers insights for those with smaller camping vehicles. One visitor indicated it "is about 6 miles from the nearest town," making it important to arrive fully stocked with supplies.
Alternative options: For RVers seeking established facilities near the best tent camping areas around Glenmont, consider established campgrounds with hookups. The Catskill region contains numerous options within a 30-mile radius of primitive camping areas, providing convenient basecamp locations for day trips.
