Are you in need of a campground near Pine Bush, NY? Pine Bush is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
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.
ScoutI 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.
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.
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
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.
GuideThere 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.
TravelerGreat 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).
TravelerNice 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.
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.
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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