Looking for the best campgrounds near Philmont, NY? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Philmont is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Philmont and user-submitted reviews.
"Trash cans, but carry out is preferable."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
"Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
"Entrance is soft"
"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"
"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."
"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"
GuideThis 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.
GuideThis 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.
Scout99% 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.
ScoutAfter 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.
GuideThe 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
RangerThis 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.
TravelerIf 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
RangerThis is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area
TravelerLake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two 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.
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.
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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