Best Dispersed Camping near New Milford, NY

Dispersed camping areas near New Milford, New York provide primitive accommodations within the surrounding forested terrain. The region features several Multiple Use Areas (MUAs) and state forest lands where backwoods camping is permitted. Most sites require campers to hike in their gear from small parking areas, with limited vehicle access points and minimal amenities. Seasonal considerations affect accessibility, particularly during spring mud season when access roads may become difficult to navigate.

What to do

Hiking from campsite: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers extensive trail access with multiple route options. Camper Jason R. notes, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," making it an ideal base for day hikes.

Wildlife observation: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park spans over 900 acres and connects to additional protected forest lands. A visitor explains the area "has the feeling of the wild" with "plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy."

Hammocking: The Appalachian Trail camping areas provide suitable trees for hammock setups. One camper shared, "Good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine," highlighting this popular sleeping option among backpackers.

What campers like

Proximity to town with wilderness feel: Despite feeling remote, many dispersed sites maintain reasonable proximity to civilization. At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, a camper describes finding "a quiet peaceful wooded area" while noting the site is "off the beaten path" but still accessible.

Cell service availability: Contrary to expectations for remote camping, several areas maintain connectivity. One visitor to Taconic Hereford notes you can enjoy "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."

Cost-free camping options: Free camping near New Milford, New York is readily available at most dispersed sites. Hemlock Ridge MUA is specifically noted as free camping with "absolutely no amenities whatsoever" but appeals to those who "like dispersed camping."

What you should know

Permit requirements: Camping on New York state lands often requires permits. A visitor to Hickok Brook advises, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."

Limited parking capacity: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal parking facilities. Hemlock Ridge features "a small parking lot that only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," requiring early arrival during busy periods.

Water planning essential: No potable water exists at most sites. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker sites, campers must "stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond" as "there's no water nearby."

Tips for camping with families

Bear safety precautions: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides bear boxes at designated sites. A visitor confirms the area is "well maintained with bear boxes provided," making food storage safer for family camping.

Parking considerations: With limited spaces available, arrive early when camping with multiple family vehicles. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, one camper describes finding "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

Insect protection: Bug activity can be significant during warm months. A Hemlock Ridge visitor warns that "bugs are relentless," suggesting families bring appropriate repellent and protective clothing.

Tips from RVers

Access road challenges: Many dispersed camping areas have difficult approach roads unsuitable for recreational vehicles. A visitor to Thunder Swamp Trailhead describes finding only "a gravel lot" for parking, indicating limited options for larger vehicles.

Alternative tent camping: RV owners seeking free camping near New Milford should consider tent options instead. At Hickok Brook, one camper who arrived in a "full ton diesel pickup" discovered "the road is very rough with huge potholes" and concluded it's "not a good spot for car camping" but viable for tent setup.

Clearance requirements: Vehicles accessing remote sites require appropriate ground clearance. One visitor specifically notes that "good clearance is a must" when navigating to these primitive camping locations.