Dispersed camping near Hensonville, New York ranges across elevations of approximately 1,500-2,800 feet in the Catskill Mountains. Campsites in this region experience dramatic seasonal temperature variations, with winter lows frequently below freezing and summer daytime temperatures averaging 70-80°F. Primitive camping options typically require self-sufficiency as most locations lack formal infrastructure.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers access to fishing spots across the road from the main camping area. As reviewer Breanne H. notes, "Trails to the fishing access across the road" make it convenient to combine camping with angling.
Mountain hiking: For more challenging adventures, connect to trailheads leading to higher elevations. One camper at Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping shared, "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."
Winter recreation: Several sites remain accessible during colder months for snow activities. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, camper Felix R. stated, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What campers like
Stream proximity: Many campers appreciate waterside camping options. At Betty Brook Camp, longtime visitor Robert B. mentioned, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," highlighting the appeal of riverside camping.
Site privacy: Several locations offer seclusion from other campers. One visitor to Duck Pond Campsite commented, "So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience." This remoteness creates opportunities for solitude.
Natural features: The forest environment and water access rank highly with visitors. Kate at Echo Lake noted, "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."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require careful navigation on unpaved roads. A visitor to Duck Pond Campsite warned, "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites... Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Cell service limitations: Communication can be unreliable throughout the region. One camper described, "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and proximity to water. A camper at Echo Lake advised, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Leave No Trace requirements: Pack-out policies apply at most locations. A visitor reminded, "Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with easier access for children. Peter from Betty Brook Camp suggests, "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Safety precautions: Remote camping requires additional preparation. Doc B. from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park advises, "Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return."
Campsite sharing: During peak periods, prepare to share areas. Kate from Echo Lake 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 navigation: When camping with children, consider trail conditions. James A. noted about Echo Lake, "Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large rigs face significant limitations at most sites. The Taconic Hereford reviewer advised, "There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Surface conditions: Weather significantly impacts accessibility. The L. reported about Duck Pond Campsite, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse."
Trailer limitations: Most primitive sites cannot accommodate larger trailers. Peter from Betty Brook Camp stated, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping may be more accessible than muddy spring conditions. Burnt Rossman State Forest campers noted, "Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft."
