Dispersed camping options near Narrowsburg, New York offer primitive outdoor experiences in the western Catskills region. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. This region features mixed hardwood forests with rock outcroppings characteristic of the Delaware River Valley geological formations. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking access: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides excellent access to multiple trail systems. "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes Jason R., who found the trailhead parking "chill for a night." The extensive trail network connects to larger systems throughout the Delaware State Forest.
River exploration: Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping offers proximity to East Branch Delaware River tributaries where primitive campsites allow visitors to explore less-trafficked waterways. The area features several small cascades within walking distance of camping areas and maintains toilet facilities despite its remote nature.
Wildlife observation: Beals Pond State Forest provides habitat for native wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. The forest maintains several unofficial clearings suitable for tent camping. Joshua M. mentions the area is "beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter."
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Hickok Brook provides designated lakeside camping with limited competition for spots. According to Gregg T., "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping." The site requires self-sufficiency as "it's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Good hammock options: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers suitable trees for hammock camping where traditional tent sites might be challenging. Renee Z. explains the area is "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" Katharine T. confirms there's "good trees for hammocking."
Riverside camping: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping features streamside sites approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Ali B. mentions "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river." These sites serve as excellent base camps for hiking Peekamoose Mountain.
What you should know
Vehicle restrictions: Several sites limit vehicle types or access. At Hickok Brook, Corey notes "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 requirements: New York State lands typically require camping permits. Gregg T. learned this firsthand at 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 water sources: Water availability varies significantly between sites. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, Renee Z. warns "there's no water nearby," suggesting campers "stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond."
Tips for camping with families
Adequate separation: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides sufficient space for families requiring multiple tents. Benjamin H. describes it as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," making it suitable for families with vehicles who need minimal hiking distance.
Bear safety: Several sites provide bear boxes for food storage. Katharine T. notes the Appalachian Trail campsite is "well maintained w bear boxes provided," essential for camping with children in bear country.
Easy access sites: Families seeking minimal hiking should consider Russell Brook Road dispersed sites where drive-up access allows easier transport of family camping gear. The proximity to roads makes these sites practical for camping with younger children or those with mobility limitations.
Tips from RVers
Parking constraints: Most rustic camping near Narrowsburg limits RV access due to narrow forest roads. At Hickok Brook, Corey advises: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup... Very gorgeous but not rv friendly."
Trailhead overnight options: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers overnight parking suitable for smaller vans or truck campers. Jason R. reports having "no trouble" overnight parking, while Benjamin H. confirms it's a "gravel lot" with "plenty of shade" where "no one bothered me."
