Dispersed camping near Parksville, New York provides access to the southern Catskill Mountains where elevations range from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. State forest lands dominate the region, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and numerous streams. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, campers can access multiple trails. "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," notes Ali B.
Winter exploration: The Catskills offer year-round camping options. At Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, Felix R. found the "location for winter camping" to be excellent. "Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Fishing access: Several sites provide stream and pond access for fishing. Breanne H. mentions Allaben Primitive Campsites has "trails to the fishing access across the road" and includes a "small pond" though she doesn't "think there are any fish."
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Echo Lake offers multiple sites around the water. James A. notes "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."
Privacy and solitude: Many rustic camping sites near Parksville offer seclusion. Dawn M. describes Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed as "a quiet peaceful wooded area" where you can "set up your own camp anywhere."
Multiple vehicle pull-offs: Several locations allow for direct vehicle access. The L. describes Burnt Rossman State Forest as having "enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. At Duck Pond Campsite, Yae U. advises to "be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions." The L. adds that "the road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse."
Seasonal limitations: Winter access becomes difficult or impossible at some locations. Joshua M. reports that Beals Pond State Forest is "not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Site restrictions: Camping regulations vary by location. Gregg T. discovered at Hickok Brook that "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bring all supplies: There are no services at most sites. Gregg T. advises campers at Hickok Brook to "bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Insect protection: Bug activity can be significant, especially near water. James A. mentions that at Echo Lake "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Consider established fire pits: Many sites feature fire rings, providing safer cooking options. Breanne H. notes that Allaben has a "fire pit with cooking griddle" which can make meal preparation easier for families.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Large RVs cannot access most dispersed sites. Corey shares about 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 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."
Ground clearance requirements: Access roads frequently demand vehicles with adequate clearance. The L. warns that driving to Duck Pond took "years off the life of my truck" due to extremely rough roads.
Site selection: Look for pull-offs with level surfaces. Many sites are suitable for small trailers or truck campers but require careful positioning. The L. mentions that Westkill Camp is "right off the road" with room for "2 to 3 campers" but cautions that the "entrance is soft."
