Dispersed camping options near Purling, New York offer primitive camping experiences within the Catskill Mountains. Most sites operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter accessibility dependent on road conditions. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 feet with terrain varying from streamside woodland areas to higher elevation forest settings. Temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months.
What to do
Explore mountain streams: Betty Brook Camp features camping spots positioned directly alongside a creek that provides ambient sound and swimming opportunities. According to Robert B., "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Winter camping adventures: Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp remains accessible during colder months for those properly equipped. Felix R. notes, "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Hiking to scenic summits: Primitive camping areas serve as excellent basespamps for challenging summit hikes. Ali B. reports about Denning Trailhead Peekamoose 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."
What campers like
Quiet solitude: The remote nature of rustic camping near Purling attracts those seeking seclusion. Peter mentions about Betty Brook Camp: "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Elevated campsites: Echo Lake offers higher terrain options with panoramic views. James A. shares, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple dispersed sites provide habitat for native Catskill wildlife. Doc B. notes about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park: "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."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many remote sites require navigation of rough forest roads. A reviewer at Duck Pond Campsite warns: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. Luke A. describes Sage's Revine: "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms."
Seasonal considerations: Sites can become muddy during spring and fall. Yae U. mentions about Duck Pond Campsite: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Families should consider proximity to water and terrain difficulty. Kate explains about Echo Lake: "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! 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."
Smaller camping spots: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers more accessible family-friendly options. Breanne H. notes, "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."
Educational opportunities: The natural environment provides learning experiences for children. Doc B. advises: "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Purling can only accommodate smaller vehicles. The L. cautions about Burnt Rossman State Forest: "This spot is right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft."
Road conditions: RVers must carefully assess access routes. Tim M. advises about Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park: "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."
Limited hookups: No dispersed sites offer typical RV amenities. Prepare for fully self-contained camping with appropriate waste management systems and water supplies. Brendan M. notes: "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."
