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Best Dispersed Camping near Philmont, NY

21 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options surround Philmont, New York in the neighboring Catskill Mountains and Taconic region. Echo Lake in the Catskills offers primitive tent sites around a small lake with established fire pits and one lean-to. The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides hike-in and walk-in camping across 900 acres of forested land with multiple trails. Both areas permit fires and allow pets, but lack facilities such as toilets, drinking water, or trash service.

Additional off-grid campsites include Burnt Rossman State Forest's Westkill Camp and Duck Pond Campsite, both accessible via dirt roads that can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, Duck Pond offers "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites" despite the rough access road, while Burnt Rossman provides "enough room for 2 to 3 campers" right off the road. The Betty Brook Camp features streamside camping with a fire pit in a remote setting. Standard leave-no-trace practices apply at all locations, with most requiring camping at least 150 feet from trails or water sources.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Philmont, New York (14)

    1. Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    South Egremont, MA
    13 miles
    Website

    "Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."

    2. Sage's Revine

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, CT
    16 miles
    Website

    "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."

    3. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    4. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    "This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."

    5. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Shandaken, NY
    37 miles

    "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond-don’t think there are any fish. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road."

    "Cool spot next to a pond. There are a few others that aren’t next to a pond, and therefore not as cool… but still pretty cool bc it’s free and you can walk up a little to a pond."

    6. Ushers Road State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Round Lake, NY
    46 miles

    "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."

    7. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    47 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    8. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    46 miles

    "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."

    "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads"

    9. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    "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."

    10. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    48 miles

    "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."

    "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Philmont, NY

8 Photos of 14 Philmont Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Philmont, NY

21 Reviews of 14 Philmont Campgrounds

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    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.

  • Doc B.
    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.

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Open quite campsites

    After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Small vehicle only

    The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. The site itself, was pretty nice, Fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

Guide to Philmont

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Philmont, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rugged and secluded experience. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Philmont, New York

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of areas like Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the same pristine environment.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; for instance, Duck Pond Campsite offers a beautiful setting but no facilities, so bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Check local regulations before heading out, as some areas may have specific rules regarding campfires and waste disposal, especially in spots like Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping area provides access to stunning hiking trails, making it an ideal base for those looking to explore the surrounding mountains.
  • Campers at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed can enjoy a variety of trails that wind through beautiful forests, perfect for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.
  • For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Echo Lake offers scenic views and nearby trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, ideal for a day of exploration.

Activities While Free Camping Near Philmont

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities near Betty Brook Camp, where streams and ponds provide a chance to catch local fish.
  • Wildlife watching is a must at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, where you can spot various species in their natural habitat while enjoying the tranquility of the forest.
  • For those who enjoy campfires, Sage's Revine allows fires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Philmont, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Philmont, NY is Jug End Dispersed — Appalachian National Scenic Trail with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Philmont, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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