Primitive camping options abound in the Ravena region, with most sites located within state forests across eastern New York. Elevations range from 400 to 2,200 feet throughout these dispersed camping areas, creating varied microclimates and ecosystems. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer nights remain cool at higher elevations even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Hiking access to campsites: At Alander Trail Campground, campers must hike 1.5-2 miles from the trailhead with all equipment. Kay D. notes, "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy."
Water activities: Echo Lake provides swimming opportunities during summer months. James A. describes it as "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)."
Rock scrambling: Several campsites require navigating rocky terrain to reach scenic viewpoints. Emily S. from Giant Ledge Primitive Camp reports, "Good hike with a bit of a challenge climbing rocks at the end towards the ledge but nothing crazy."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Duck Pond Campsite offers quiet camping away from crowds. Yae U. describes it as "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."
Elevated views: Camping at higher elevations provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Ryan from Giant Ledge Primitive Camp shares, "Yes you can camp on top of the mountain. Yes you can make a cap fire. Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp. Yes it's amazing."
Clean facilities: Several primitive sites are well-maintained despite their remote locations. Liz P. from Alander Trail Campground states, "The area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some tent camping areas near Ravena requires navigating unpaved roads. The L. from 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."
Challenging terrain: Many sites require physical preparation. Caleb J. from Giant Ledge cautions, "It is a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens. Not some rocks littering the trail. I think the trail used to be a stream or creek."
Wildlife precautions: Laurel Ridge and other area campsites have active wildlife. John S. reports, "Thought I heard bears come through overnight, but may have been a lucid dream. Bear can was undisturbed in the morning."
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping: Some sites offer raised platforms ideal for families with children. Tina D. from Brassie Brook Shelter reports, "The lean-to fit our small tens, and there is a picnic table. There's also a bear box near by. Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along."
Trail difficulty ratings: Assess trail difficulty before bringing children. Tina D. notes about one route, "This was overall no easy hike in any way, so if you are not in moderate shape I would not recommend this to you."
Site selection timing: Arrive early to secure flat camping spots at popular locations. Nora S. advises about Laurel Ridge, "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon."
Tips from RVers
High clearance vehicles only: Ushers Road State Forest offers limited RV access on forest roads. The L. explains, "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
Seasonal access limitations: Most forest roads near tent camping sites around Ravena become impassable during winter and spring thaws. Check with local forest service offices before attempting access with any vehicle between November and April.
Alternative options: While primitive tent camping dominates near Ravena, Getaway Catskill Campground provides more amenities for those transitioning from RV to tent camping. Ashley F. notes each site has "a private bathroom and hot shower, as well as a kitchenette."
