Best Dispersed Camping near Hillsdale, NY
Dispersed camping opportunities near Hillsdale, New York extend into neighboring Vermont, with several primitive sites available within a 30-mile radius. The Green Mountain National Forest provides multiple free camping options, including Downed Bridge Camp and Road's End Dispersed Camp. These sites typically feature basic fire rings but lack amenities such as running water, electricity, or waste facilities. According to recent visitor reports, "Some of the sites are drive-in, some are walk-in, but all are primitive. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Vehicle access varies significantly between locations. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain or during spring thaw. Several campers noted that "this is not a place to go without at least 9 inches of ground clearance." The NF-83 riverside site offers a peaceful setting but has rough entry points with larger rocks that may challenge standard passenger vehicles. Somerset Airfield provides easier access but offers less privacy with sites positioned close together.
Most dispersed sites permit fires in established rings, though seasonal restrictions apply during dry periods. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent throughout the region. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, as natural sources require proper filtration. The camping season generally runs from late spring through fall, with many areas closed during winter due to snow. Increasing visitor pressure has led to site closures in some areas, with rangers actively blocking access to overused locations. Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these areas for future use.
