Best Dispersed Camping near Katonah, NY

Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers free dispersed camping across 900 acres of forested terrain near Katonah. This primitive camping area permits alcohol and fires, with hiking and walking trails providing access to backcountry sites. The park requires setting up camp at least 150 feet from trails, following standard Leave No Trace principles. While convenient to town (within 10 minutes), the area has limited parking for only 4-6 vehicles and narrow roads unsuitable for RVs or trailers. The park provides no amenities beyond a sanitary dump station.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides another primitive camping option in the region with similar regulations. The area features densely wooded terrain and offers a quiet, secluded camping experience. A recent review noted, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." Both locations attract visitors seeking truly primitive boondocking experiences, with most sites accommodating tent camping only. Cell service is generally available at Taconic Hereford but limited at Hemlock Ridge.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Katonah, New York (3)

    1. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    34 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
    32 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Katonah, NY

2 Photos of 3 Katonah Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Katonah, NY

5 Reviews of 3 Katonah Campgrounds


  • 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

  • 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.


Guide to Katonah

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Katonah, New York, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom to explore vast landscapes while taking advantage of the serene surroundings.

Top Activities for Nature Lovers While Free Camping Near Katonah

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trails available at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, offering a chance to connect with the wilderness just minutes from town.

Wildlife Watching for Dispersed Campers

  • The diverse ecosystems at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provide ample opportunities for spotting local wildlife, making it a great spot for nature photography and birdwatching.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Katonah, New York

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep areas like Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park pristine, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the natural beauty just as you did.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Katonah, 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 Katonah, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Katonah, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.