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Best Dispersed Camping near Holmes, NY

11 Reviews

Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers dispersed camping across 900 acres of forested land near Holmes, New York. This primitive camping area requires hikers to walk in and find suitable spots to set up camp. The park provides no amenities or facilities beyond sanitary dump access, though cell service remains available throughout most areas. One camper shared, "99% of people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for."

For those seeking alternatives, Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides a similar primitive experience with tent camping opportunities. The small parking lot accommodates only 4-6 vehicles, with camping allowed 150 feet from trails. The area features no amenities or reliable cell service. Echo Lake in the Catskills offers more remote tent camping with established sites around the lake, including one lean-to. Both areas permit fires and allow pets, though campers should practice leave-no-trace principles and pack out all trash. All these dispersed sites are free to use, making them popular options for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Holmes, New York (5)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for."

    "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, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."

    2. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path."

    3. Sage's Revine

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, CT
    38 miles
    Website

    "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."

    4. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    5. Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    South Egremont, MA
    44 miles
    Website

    "Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Holmes, NY

4 Photos of 5 Holmes Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Holmes, NY

11 Reviews of 5 Holmes Campgrounds

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!  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.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  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.

  • Doc B.
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for. 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. 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. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    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. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although 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. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    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, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants) We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze.

  • Luke A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2018

    Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Jug End Campground, Great Spot for Section Hikers and All.

    Great spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at. Trash cans, but carry out is preferable.

Guide to Holmes

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Holmes, New York, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities for Nature Lovers While Free Camping Near Holmes

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails surrounding Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which offers a chance to explore over 900 acres of protected forest.
  • Wildlife observation is a highlight at Echo Lake, where campers can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while relaxing by the water.
  • For those seeking a quiet retreat, Sage's Revine provides a peaceful environment with platforms spaced 50 feet apart, ensuring a sense of privacy.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The picturesque views at Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail make it a favorite spot for hikers looking to soak in the natural beauty of the area.
  • Campers at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while being just a short drive from popular climbing spots in the Gunks.
  • The stunning landscapes around Echo Lake offer a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation, making it an ideal location for those looking to capture the essence of the Catskills.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Unique Features

  • Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park allows campfires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • At Sage's Revine, amenities like drinking water and bear boxes enhance the camping experience while maintaining a natural setting.
  • The lack of amenities at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed encourages campers to embrace the wilderness and practice Leave No Trace principles, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Holmes, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Holmes, NY is Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Holmes, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Holmes, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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