Tent camping near Old Chatham, New York includes several backcountry and hike-in options within the Taconic Mountain range, which forms a natural border between New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Elevations range from 1,000 to 2,600 feet, creating varied microclimates across camping areas. Most primitive sites require campers to pack in their own water and supplies.
What to do
Overnight summit hikes: Bear Mountain in Connecticut offers tent campers challenging terrain with significant elevation gain. According to a camper at Brassie Brook Shelter, "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks."
Multi-day backpacking: The Appalachian Trail sections near Old Chatham connect several primitive campsites. A backpacker at Riga Lean-To noted, "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain. Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around."
Mountain biking access: Several forest areas permit bikes on designated trails. A visitor to Ushers Road State Forest reported, "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
What campers like
Genuine seclusion: The hike-in requirement at many sites naturally limits crowds. At Alander Trail Campground, a camper shared, "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience."
Trail access: Numerous sites serve as ideal basecamp locations. At Laurel Ridge, one backpacker explained, "We actually started this hike in by Race Brook Falls area, and ended it where the GPS coordinates are noted. See the map in my photos marked with yellow lines."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many sites maintain basic amenities. A visitor to Alander Trail Campground observed, "Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Wildlife activity necessitates proper food storage. A camper at Laurel Ridge noted, "There is a bear box near that if you bring a padlock you can use it."
Pack weight considerations: The distance to hike-in sites requires careful planning. At Alander Trail Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots."
Seasonal weather challenges: Fall temperatures can drop significantly. A Laurel Ridge camper reported, "We used it at night because it was pretty cold in the 50s and down to 40s late at night (this was OCT)."
Tips for camping with families
Novice backpacking routes: Start with shorter hikes before attempting challenging terrain. A camper at Laurel Ridge advised, "This was overall no easy hike in any way, so if you are not in moderate shape I would not recommend this to you. If you hike normally, and do some cardio like spin class or something regularly, try the day hike first."
Unique accommodations: Consider alternative camping options for young children. At Chester Railway Station, a visitor explained, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too."
Water availability planning: Most primitive sites lack potable water sources. Brassie Brook Shelter offers basic facilities but requires water planning, as one camper noted, "Carry out all your trash, but there are toilets."
Tips from RVers
Dispersed parking limitations: State forests permit limited RV camping but have specific restrictions. At Ushers Road State Forest, a visitor explained, "Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots."
Weather impact on access: Spring conditions can affect site accessibility. A reviewer at Ushers Road described, "The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week."
Alternative campground options: For those wanting amenities, several established campgrounds offer both tent and RV sites within driving distance of the best tent camping near Old Chatham, New York.
