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Best Dispersed Camping near Pine Bush, NY

11 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Pine Bush, New York includes several primitive sites in the surrounding Catskill region. Hemlock Ridge Multiple Use Area offers free dispersed camping with no amenities, where campers can set up tents at least 150 feet from trails. Other notable options include Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park with its 900 acres of forested land, and locations near Denning Trailhead that provide access to backcountry camping. Echo Lake features tent sites accessible via hiking trails, while Allaben Primitive Campsites permits both tent and limited RV camping.

Access to most dispersed sites requires preparation for primitive conditions. Many locations like Hemlock Ridge feature small parking areas with space for only 4-6 vehicles, requiring campers to hike in to suitable camping spots. Hickok Brook has very rough access roads with large potholes requiring high clearance vehicles. Most sites follow standard Leave No Trace principles and lack facilities such as toilets, running water, or trash removal. Fire restrictions vary by season and location, with several sites permitting campfires in established rings when conditions allow. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region.

These primitive camping areas provide varying experiences based on their terrain and remoteness. Hemlock Ridge offers a quiet wooded setting that appeals to climbers accessing nearby areas. "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path," notes one visitor to Hemlock Ridge. Echo Lake features camping opportunities around a scenic lake with a lean-to and multiple tent sites, though it "can get a little crowded later in the day." Denning Trailhead provides access to riverside camping spots approximately 1.5 miles from the parking area. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park combines accessibility with a wilderness feel, as one camper describes: "Less than 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Pine Bush, New York (8)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    2. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    25 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."

    3. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    3 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    29 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."

    4. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    31 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    5. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    35 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."

    6. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    34 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."

    7. Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping

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    Highmount, NY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    8. Russell Brook Road

    Be the first to review!
    Roscoe, NY
    42 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Pine Bush, NY

10 Photos of 8 Pine Bush Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pine Bush, NY

11 Reviews of 8 Pine Bush 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.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    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.

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    Lake 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.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. 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.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    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. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).

Guide to Pine Bush

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pine Bush, New York, where nature awaits with serene landscapes and the freedom to explore. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a newcomer, these spots offer a unique experience away from the crowds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pine Bush, New York

  • Many areas, like Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, allow camping without a permit, making it easy to set up camp without the hassle of reservations.
  • Be prepared for bugs, especially in places such as Hickok Brook, where the natural surroundings can attract insects during warmer months.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas pristine for future visitors, particularly in spots like Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping.

Enjoy hiking and exploring while free camping near Pine Bush

  • The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers numerous trails that lead to stunning views and wildlife, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
  • For those looking to combine camping with adventure, Echo Lake features trails around the lake, providing opportunities for both hiking and fishing.
  • If you're up for a challenge, consider hiking to the nearby mountains after setting up at Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, where you can enjoy breathtaking views.

Dispersed campers should check out Echo Lake

  • Echo Lake is known for its picturesque tent sites and fire pits, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a lakeside experience.
  • The area around Echo Lake can get a bit crowded, especially later in the day, so arriving early can help you secure a prime spot.
  • With well-shaded sites and the option to explore the surrounding forest, Echo Lake provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for dispersed campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Pine Bush?

When dispersed camping in Pine Bush areas, standard Leave No Trace principles apply. At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, camping is permitted anywhere 150 feet from the trail across its 80 acres of forest. At Hickok Brook, vehicle access is limited with rough roads requiring high clearance, and some areas prohibit motorized vehicles entirely. Most dispersed sites require proper waste disposal (pack it in, pack it out), have fire restrictions during dry seasons, and typically allow 14-day maximum stays. Always check with land management authorities for current regulations before your trip.

Where can I find primitive camping in Pine Bush?

The Pine Bush area offers several primitive camping options. Echo Lake provides tent sites around the entire lake with established fire pits and a lean-to at the trail entrance. For a more secluded experience, Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers a quiet forest setting just minutes from town, though you'll need to hike in to find suitable camping spots. Both locations provide the true primitive camping experience while remaining relatively accessible. Look for flat, shaded areas that follow Leave No Trace principles.

Are there any amenities or facilities at Pine Bush dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas in Pine Bush are primarily primitive with minimal to no amenities. Allaben Primitive Campsites offers basic amenities including picnic tables, fire pits with cooking griddles, and access to trails, plus it's close to town for supplies. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping has riverside spots but requires a 1.5-mile hike in with no facilities. Most dispersed camping locations in the area have no potable water, no toilets, and limited to no cell service. Be prepared to bring everything you need and pack out all waste.

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