Dispersed camping sites near Highland Falls, New York offer primitive outdoor experiences in the surrounding Catskill and Taconic regions. Most areas sit at elevations between 500-1,500 feet with heavily forested terrain dominated by oak, maple and hemlock trees. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides extensive trail networks across its 900+ acres that connect to adjacent protected forests. As one camper notes, "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." Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
Climbing access: Hemlock Ridge MUA serves as a convenient base for rock climbing enthusiasts. According to a visitor, "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. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks." Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
River camping: For those seeking water features, Denning Trailhead Peekamoose offers primitive sites along a stream. As reported by a camper, "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
Solitude: The rustic camping near Highland Falls provides genuine seclusion. One camper at Hemlock Ridge shares, "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night."
Cell service: Unlike many remote areas, Taconic Hereford maintains connectivity. A reviewer explains, "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." Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
Proximity to town: Several camping options provide wilderness feel with civilization nearby. One visitor to Taconic Hereford notes, "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."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some sites in the region require permits despite being free. At Hickok Brook, a camper warns, "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county." Hickok Brook
Limited capacity: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal space available. A Hickok Brook visitor mentions, "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
Seasonal bugs: Prepare for insects, particularly in summer months. One Hemlock Ridge camper reports, "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. Bugs are relentless."
Tips for camping with families
Supply preparation: No amenities means bringing everything you need. A Hickok Brook camper advises, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Safety protocols: When camping with children in remote areas, follow basic safety measures. A Taconic Hereford visitor recommends, "Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return." Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
Camp selection: For families with younger children, consider distance from trailheads. At Hemlock Ridge, a camper notes, "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."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites present challenges for larger vehicles. A Hickok Brook visitor cautions, "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. Very gorgeous but not RV friendly."
Turnaround space: Many access roads have limited maneuvering room. One Taconic Hereford camper warns, "The road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Parking limitations: Vehicle size restrictions apply at most sites. A visitor to Hemlock Ridge notes, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
