Primitive camping near Liberty, New York offers several backcountry options in the western Catskill Mountains region. The area includes over 700,000 acres of Forest Preserve lands with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. Winter access to many sites becomes limited due to seasonal road closures and unplowed access points, while summer brings increased humidity and insect activity.
What to do
Hiking connections: At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, campers can access extensive trail networks. Jason R. notes, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Winter adventures: Beals Pond State Forest offers cold-weather camping for experienced outdoorspeople. Joshua M. cautions, "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."
Year-round camping: Burnt Rossman State Forest provides reliable camping regardless of season. Felix R. reports, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What campers like
Lakeside views: Echo Lake campers appreciate the water access and surrounding landscape. James A. shares, "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."
Proximity to towns: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers convenient access to services while maintaining a rustic feel. Breanne H. comments, "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."
Solitude opportunities: Dispersed sites often provide quieter camping experiences. Dawn M. says of Hemlock Ridge, "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."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Hickok Brook camping requires appropriate transportation. Corey warns, "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."
Permit regulations: Some areas require camping permits. Gregg T. notes about Hickok Brook, "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 camping areas have restricted capacity. Dawn M. reports about Hemlock Ridge, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For families visiting Echo Lake, Kate advises, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray. It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others."
Pack insect protection: Biting insects are prevalent during warm months. Cory D. cautions about Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, "Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks."
Choose accessible locations: With children, consider sites with shorter walking distances. The L. describes Burnt Rossman State Forest, "This spot is right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet."
Tips from RVers
Campsite limitations: Many primitive sites cannot accommodate larger vehicles. Corey reports about Hickok Brook, "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."
Alternative parking: When conditions are wet, seek designated parking areas. Benjamin H. notes about Thunder Swamp Trailhead, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Self-sufficient camping: No hookups or facilities exist at these sites, requiring full self-sufficiency. At Burnt Rossman, The L. mentions, "Entrance is soft," highlighting the need for vehicles with appropriate capabilities on unpaved access roads.
