Rustic camping near Red Hook, New York primarily features dispersed sites requiring self-sufficiency. Most locations sit between 1,000-3,000 feet elevation across forested landscapes in the Catskill foothills and Taconic range. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with seasonal road closures at higher elevations, while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Stream fishing opportunities: Betty Brook Camp offers campsites directly on a stream where visitors can fish during appropriate seasons. As camper Robert B. notes, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots."
Mountain hiking access: Denning Trailhead serves as a gateway to challenging summit hikes in the Catskills. According to Ali B., there are "great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead... Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain."
Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provide wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its extensive trail system. One visitor mentioned, "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."
Pond-side relaxation: Small bodies of water like Duck Pond offer peaceful settings for low-key recreation. A camper describes it as "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."
What campers like
Solitude and remoteness: Betty Brook Camp draws repeat visitors seeking quiet isolation. One long-time visitor explains, "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."
Natural water features: Echo Lake receives high marks for its setting and accessibility. James A. describes it as a "lake 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."
Proximity to hiking trails: Many campers appreciate the convenient access to trail networks. Hemlock Ridge MUA provides basic forest camping with trail access, though as Cory D. notes, "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."
Cell service availability: Several sites maintain connectivity despite remote settings. Dawn M. observes about Hemlock Ridge, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to several sites requires navigating rough forest roads. The Duck Pond visitor warns, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse."
Limited facilities: Most areas require complete self-sufficiency. Regarding Hemlock Ridge MUA, Dawn M. emphasizes there are "absolutely no amenities whatsoever" and campers must follow standard rules about setting up "at about the required 150ft from the road."
Insect preparation essential: Bugs can be problematic in certain locations. One Echo Lake camper advises, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Site competition on weekends: Popular areas fill quickly during peak periods. At Sage's Revine, campers find "12 platforms available" but should expect others nearby as "platforms are 50 feet between" each other.
Tips for camping with families
Starter backpacking location: Echo Lake provides an accessible introduction to backpacking. Kate called it "perfect" for her "first backpacking trip" mentioning "there are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits."
Accessible primitive options: Allaben Primitive Campsites offers easier access while maintaining a rustic feel. Breanne H. describes finding a "nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond... Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle."
Navigation challenges: Some camping areas require orientation skills and preparation. At Echo Lake, campsites "are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)" according to one visitor.
Safety preparations: Campers should take standard precautions. As one Taconic Hereford visitor advises, "Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return."
Tips from RVers
Small vehicle requirements: Most dispersed sites accommodate only compact vehicles or small trailers. At Duck Pond, Yae U. recommends to "be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Winter accessibility: Burnt Rossman State Forest offers year-round options for hardy campers. Felix R. reports it "was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road."
Parking limitations: RV spots are scarce and size-restricted. Peter notes about Betty Brook Camp, "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Alternative parking strategies: When site conditions deteriorate, alternate arrangements may be necessary. One camper at Burnt Rossman State Forest suggests "parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft."
