Best Dispersed Camping near Maybrook, NY

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Maybrook, NY (7)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    • No image available

      2. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

      2 Reviews
      69 Saves
      Verbank, New York

      The 917-acre Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area is one of the largest state forests in Dutchess County. Most trails on this property allow multiple uses. It is very popular with mountain bikers, horseback riders, and dog walkers. Please be respectful of all users. Primitive Camping Camping at two designated sites is permitted on a first-come-first-serve basis. They're located on the west side of Brockway Road, south of Tyrrel Road. At-large primitive camping is also allowed. At-large campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
      Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

      4. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

      1 Review
      2 Photos
      76 Saves
      Claryville, New York

      Description

      Permits for Peekamoose Blue Hole are only necessary on weekends and holidays from mid-May through mid-September of each year. Permits are available as late as a day in advance, but no more than 7 days in advance. There is a limit of 25 permits issued per day. The Blue Hole is a day-use area and is part of the Rondout Creek, which flows through the Peekamoose Valley to the Rondout Reservoir. The reservoir provides almost half of the drinking water for more than 9 million people in the New York City metropolitan area. Help us protect the area - and your drinking water - by observing these regulations: Use the portable toilets for all human waste. If you carry it in, carry it out - use the dumpsters. Camping, fires and portable generators are allowed only at designated campsites downstream of the Blue Hole. No radios and other audio devices. No glass containers. Except for the designated camping sites, the Peekamoose Corridor is open to the public from onehalf hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake

      5. Echo Lake

      1 Review
      3 Photos
      114 Saves
      Woodstock, New York
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Firewood Available
      • Alcohol
      • No image available

        6. Allaben Primitive Campsites

        Be the first to review!
        21 Saves
        Shandaken, New York

        There are 8 designated campsites, but at-large primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Range

          • No image available

            7. Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping

            Be the first to review!
            25 Saves
            Highmount, New York

            Map: https://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/recmapbiwa.pdf

            There are five lean-tos located trailside throughout the area, each supported by a seasonal water source and pit privy. Other designated campsites are marked with a yellow "Camp Here" disc. In addition, primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

            State law also prohibits camping above 3500 feet in elevation from March 22nd to December 21st each year. In a Wilderness Area, group size is limited to a maximum of 12. Larger groups may be accommodated in any of the Forest Preserve's Wild Forest areas such as nearby Balsam Lake Mountain or Willowemoc Wild Forests.

            Water is relatively scarce in the Catskills. It is not unusual for the springs and streams in this area to run dry during the summer months. The department cannot ensure the purity of any water source. Boil all water for 2 minutes, filter or treat chemically.

            • Pets
            • Fires
            • Tents
            • Group
            • Standard (Tent/RV)
            • Dispersed

          Recent Dispersed Reviews in Maybrook

          7 Reviews of 7 Maybrook Campgrounds


          • GThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
            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.

          • Corey The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
            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.

          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
            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.

          • Doc B.
            Camper-submitted photo from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
            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.

          • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
            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).

          • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
            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.



          Guide to Maybrook

          Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Maybrook, New York, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll find the perfect place to pitch your tent and enjoy the wilderness.

          Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers

          • The Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed area features an 80-acre forest with a trail that allows camping anywhere 150 feet from the path, making it ideal for those who enjoy hiking and exploring.
          • At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, you can hike about 1.5 miles to find great camping spots right by the river, perfect for a refreshing dip after a long trek.
          • For a more secluded experience, Echo Lake offers tent sites around the lake, providing a peaceful backdrop for your camping adventure.

          Top Activities While Free Camping Near Maybrook

          • Many climbers frequent the Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed area for its proximity to the Gunks, making it a great spot for those looking to combine camping with climbing.
          • The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park is surrounded by over 900 acres of protected forests, offering ample opportunities for wildlife watching and hiking.
          • Enjoy fishing and swimming at Hickok Brook, where the lakeside tent sites provide a beautiful setting for a day of relaxation by the water.

          Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Maybrook, New York

          • Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially at Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
          • Be prepared for bugs, particularly at Echo Lake, where the swampy edges can attract mosquitoes; bringing bug spray is highly recommended.
          • Since many areas, like Hickok Brook, have limited spots, arrive early to secure a good location and enjoy a quieter experience.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Maybrook, NY?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Maybrook, NY is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

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

            TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Maybrook, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.