Dispersed camping options near Plattekill, New York offer true wilderness experiences in the northern Catskill region. The area sits at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 feet with seasonal temperature fluctuations that can drop below freezing even in late spring and early fall. Primitive campsites typically feature uneven terrain with mixed hardwood and conifer forest cover providing natural shelter but little to no infrastructure.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access points near Allaben Primitive Campsites connect to public fishing areas. "Trails to the fishing access across the road," notes Breanne H., who appreciated the convenience of this spot being "close to town" while still offering a rustic experience.
Rock climbing access: The primitive Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed serves as a base camp for climbers. "Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks," explains Cory D., highlighting its utilitarian purpose for outdoor enthusiasts seeking proximity to climbing routes rather than campground amenities.
Lakeside recreation: Echo Lake provides swimming and paddling options. James A. reports that the "Lake is surrounded by hills" with camping spots offering "a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze" for those willing to navigate to higher elevation sites.
What campers like
Solitude and disconnection: The 900-acre Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers extensive wilderness with cell service for safety. Doc B. describes it as "a hidden gem" where "hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
Riverside camping: Sites approximately 1.5 miles from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping provide water access. Ali B. found "a lot of spots right by the river" and notes it serves as "a great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain."
Natural features: Wooded settings with varied terrain characterize most sites. At Hemlock Ridge, Dawn M. appreciated that while there are "no spectacular mountain views from above," the area offers "a quiet peaceful wooded area" where "you can set up your own camp anywhere" following standard dispersed camping regulations.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many access roads demand high-clearance vehicles. Corey at Hickok Brook warns, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must" and clarifies 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."
Limited capacity: Most sites accommodate few campers. Tim M. notes that at Taconic Hereford "there's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Permit requirements: Some locations require permits from ranger stations. Gregg T. discovered this at Hickok Brook: "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
Accessibility considerations: Choose locations with shorter hikes for children. Echo Lake offers sites "around the whole lake with fire pits," according to Kate, who found it "perfect" for a first backpacking trip but cautions it "can get a little crowded later in the day."
Bug preparation: Lake areas can be especially buggy during warmer months. Kate warns that at Echo Lake "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Cooking facilities: Some sites feature basic cooking structures. Breanne H. found Allaben Primitive Campsites equipped with a "Fire pit with cooking griddle" and a "Picnic table," amenities not common at most primitive sites in the region.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: The narrow access roads limit RV options severely. At Jug End on the Appalachian Trail, camping may be prohibited entirely according to licia S., who notes: "This is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area."
Alternative facilities: For RVers, established campgrounds near Plattekill provide more appropriate options. While rustic camping dominates the immediate area, licia S. found one location that was "only $25 night" with "Great looking facilities and friendly staff."
Supply planning: No services exist at dispersed sites. Gregg T. advises campers at Hickok Brook to "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town" with the nearest supplies in "a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
