Dispersed camping near Maybrook, New York extends beyond the immediate Catskills region to include multiple use areas in neighboring counties. Elevation varies significantly between sites, from approximately 500 feet at Taconic Hereford to over 2,000 feet at Echo Lake. Many sites require planning for variable weather conditions as temperature fluctuations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees, especially at higher elevations during spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Allaben Primitive Campsites provides easy access to fishing opportunities. "Trails to the fishing access across the road," notes Breanne H., who appreciated the convenience of this primitive site that includes "a picnic table and fire pit with cooking griddle."
Hiking to mountain summits: Use Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping as a base for challenging hikes. "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," recommends Ali B.
Swimming opportunities: Several primitive sites offer water access for summer swimming. The pond at Allaben Primitive Campsites provides a small water feature, though as Breanne notes, "don't think there are any fish" for those hoping to combine swimming with fishing.
What campers like
Secluded water views: Echo Lake offers scenic lakeside camping with established sites. "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). We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," describes James A.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many remote camping areas, Taconic Hereford maintains connectivity. Tim M. confirms "This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service," making it practical for those needing to stay connected.
Proximity to town: Hickok Brook balances seclusion with convenience. Gregg T. notes, "There is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place," allowing campers to access supplies without sacrificing wilderness experience.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits that aren't mentioned in general information. At Hickok Brook, a camper learned this firsthand: "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," warns Gregg T.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly during peak times. Kate experienced this at Echo Lake: "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. Corey found Hickok Brook challenging: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic, especially near water. Kate advises Echo Lake visitors: "It can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray," while Cory D. at Hemlock Ridge MUA warns "Bugs are relentless."
Limited parking capacity: Plan to arrive early, particularly with multiple vehicles. Dawn M. notes about Hemlock Ridge: "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," which requires coordination for family groups.
Environmental education: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers 900+ acres of protected forests. Doc B. suggests it's ideal for nature observation: "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."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Maybrook restrict larger vehicles. Tim M. cautions about Taconic Hereford: "The road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Finding flat spaces: Identifying suitable parking for even small RVs can be challenging. Corey explains their experience at 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."
Self-sufficiency requirement: Without amenities, proper preparation is essential. As Dawn M. found at Hemlock Ridge: "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here," requiring campers to bring all necessary supplies.
