Best Dispersed Camping near Liberty, NY

Are you in need of a campground near Liberty, NY? Liberty is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Liberty. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Liberty, New York (10)

    1. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    "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."

    2. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    21 miles

    "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."

    "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."

    4. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    30 miles

    "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond-don’t think there are any fish. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road."

    6. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    39 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."

    7. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    38 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."

    8. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    49 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    9. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    48 miles

    "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

    "Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

    10. Beals Pond State Forest

    1 Review
    Trout Creek, NY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 357-2161
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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Liberty, NY

11 Reviews of 10 Liberty 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.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 27, 2024

    Beals Pond State Forest

    Not easily accessible in winter

    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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    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... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. 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.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    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. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).


Guide to Liberty

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Liberty, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Lakeside Retreats for Dispersed Campers

  • For a picturesque experience, consider Hickok Brook, which offers limited spots near a tranquil lake, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
  • If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Echo Lake features tent sites around the lake, complete with fire pits, making it ideal for a cozy evening under the stars.
  • The Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping area provides access to beautiful river spots, allowing campers to enjoy both fishing and hiking opportunities.

Top Hiking Trails for Dispersed Camping Enthusiasts

  • The Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping area is perfect for those who love to hike in, offering a true back-to-nature experience with trails leading to stunning views.
  • Campers can easily access the trails from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, where you can set up camp and explore the surrounding 80 acres of forest.
  • For a unique experience, Allaben Primitive Campsites offers a drive-in option, making it easy to reach popular hiking trails while enjoying the freedom of dispersed camping.

Relaxing Spots for Campers Near Liberty

  • Beals Pond State Forest is a free option that allows for a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • The Rest Area I-84 provides a safe and clean environment for solo travelers, making it a great stop for those on a longer journey.
  • If you're seeking a more secluded experience, Russell Brook Road offers a drive-in option with no permits required, allowing for a hassle-free camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Liberty, NY is Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Liberty, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.