Rustic camping near Jeffersonville, New York offers numerous options in the Catskill Forest Preserve, where elevations range from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F while winter temperatures can drop well below freezing. Most dispersed camping sites require self-sufficiency, with campers needing to carry in all supplies and carry out all waste.
What to do
Hiking from your campsite: At Denning Trailhead, primitive camping spots located about 1.5 miles from the trailhead provide direct access to challenging mountain trails. As one camper noted, they are "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."
Fishing access: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers easy access to fishing opportunities. A camper mentioned the site has "trails to the fishing access across the road" making it convenient for anglers looking to combine camping with fishing. While the campsite itself has a "small pond," the nearby stream access provides better fishing prospects.
Backpacking opportunities: Echo Lake requires a hike to reach but rewards visitors with multiple camping options. According to a visitor, "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 relative accessibility makes it an excellent introduction to backpacking.
What campers like
Natural water features: At Echo Lake, campers appreciate the secluded setting surrounded by hills. One camper described, "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)."
Peace and quiet: Hemlock Ridge MUA appeals to those seeking solitude. A camper explained it as "a quiet peaceful wooded area" where "you can set up your own camp anywhere." The same visitor noted, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
Minimalist experience: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers basic accommodations that satisfy campers looking for simplicity. One visitor reported, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking," while another simply stated it's "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permits and regulations: Some camping areas require permits. At Hickok Brook, a camper learned this the hard way: "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."
Limited space: Many dispersed sites have very few designated camping spots. At Hickok Brook, a camper warned, "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town."
Seasonal accessibility: Winter camping presents additional challenges in the Catskills. At Beals Pond State Forest, a winter visitor reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Echo Lake's environment can be particularly buggy. A camper advised, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray." Ensuring children have proper protection from insects will make the experience more enjoyable.
Timing arrival: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Regarding Echo Lake, a camper 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." Arriving early ensures better site selection.
Choosing accessible spots: For families with young children, Allaben Primitive Campsites offers conveniences not found at more remote locations. A visitor described it as a "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town" with amenities including a "Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Hickok Brook presents significant challenges for larger vehicles. A visitor warned, "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."
Alternative parking: Some areas like Thunder Swamp Trailhead offer simple parking without amenities. A camper described it as "a gravel parking lot" with "plenty of shade" where they weren't bothered, making it potentially suitable for small, self-contained RVs looking for basic overnight parking.
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Jeffersonville have limited space unsuitable for larger RVs. At Hemlock Ridge MUA, a camper noted, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," indicating limited options for anything beyond small vehicles.
