State forests surrounding Hancock, New York offer numerous dispersed camping opportunities at no cost. The area features mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 1,200-2,300 feet with seasonal temperature variations. Most primitive sites require campers to follow standard backcountry regulations, including maintaining distance from water sources and practicing leave-no-trace principles.
What to do
Fishing access points: Allaben Primitive Campsites features trails to fishing access across the main road. "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," notes Breanne H.
Birdwatching platforms: The raised boardwalk at Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. According to Janet R., "One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration."
Hiking on network trails: Primitive camping near trails allows for extended backpacking trips. At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, Ali B. reports, "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."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate access to ponds and rivers for recreation. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. notes, "Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Spacious camping areas: Many sites provide ample room to spread out. Kevin C. states about Long Pond Campground, "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Natural firewood availability: Fallen wood can often be collected for campfires. Katelyn H. mentions, "Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site. Lots of good tinder left over from previous guests which has been helpful."
What you should know
Limited cell reception: Communication can be challenging in certain forests. Joshua M. reports about Beals Pond State Forest, "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Registration requirements: Some sites require sign-in at kiosks. As Janet R. explains about Round Pond, "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem. You need to sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees."
Road conditions vary: Access roads may require high-clearance vehicles. Corey from Hickok Brook mentions, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Tips for camping with families
Bring supplies for multiple days: No services are available at most sites. Kevin C. advises, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," regarding Long Pond Campground.
Research water sources beforehand: Natural water must be treated. At Denning Trailhead, campers report many spots "right by the river" but all water requires proper filtration.
Consider accessibility needs: Some areas offer accessible features. Janet R. notes Balsam Swamp State Forest "has a well built handicapped accessible fishing pier" despite other maintenance issues at the campground.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small rigs. As Kevin C. notes about Long Pond, "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Limited amenities: No hookups are available at any dispersed sites. Katelyn H. reports Long Pond is a "leave no trace situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage."
Alternative parking options: Some areas offer separate parking for larger vehicles. At Hickok Brook, Corey found that "It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
