Dispersed camping near Rock Tavern, New York provides access to several multiple-use areas within the Hudson Valley and southern Catskill regions. The area sits at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from lowland forest to higher elevation woodland. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with heavy snowfall limiting access to remote sites from December through March, while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 80°F.
What to do
Hiking to riverside campsites: From the Denning Trailhead, visitors can access primitive camping spots approximately 1.5 miles into the trail. One camper notes, "Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain," making this location ideal for multi-day backpacking trips.
Fishing access: The primitive camping at Allaben offers "trails to the fishing access across the road" according to a camper who visited for a weekend getaway. The location features a small pond and is positioned conveniently close to additional water access points for anglers.
Rock climbing: The 80-acre Hemlock Ridge area serves as a popular basecamp for climbers visiting the nearby Shawangunk Ridge. Campers stay here specifically for climbing access, with sites requiring proper Leave No Trace practices and setup at least 150 feet from established trails.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Echo Lake offers tent sites circling the water with established fire pits. One visitor reported, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," highlighting the advantage of slightly elevated positions around the lake perimeter.
Solitude in accessible wilderness: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides over 900 acres of undeveloped forest land. A camper described it as "99% of people don't even know this area exists" and noted you can enjoy "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
Water-adjacent sites: Multiple dispersed camping areas feature waterfront locations. For those seeking riverside options, Denning Trailhead area has "a lot of spots right by the river," providing ambient sounds and easy water access for filtering or cooking.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles or hiking in from parking areas. At Hickok Brook, a reviewer warned "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must" and clarified it's "not a good spot for car camping" despite being drive-accessible.
Limited capacity: Most dispersed sites have minimal parking. One camper at Hemlock Ridge noted the area "only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," indicating early arrival is essential during peak seasons.
Permit requirements: New York state lands often require camping permits. A Hickok Brook visitor reported learning this from rangers: "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county." Always check current regulations before setting up camp.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings significant mud and wet conditions to many sites, particularly at Echo Lake where campers report "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake." Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer insects but requires warmer sleeping gear.
Tips for camping with families
Established sites with amenities: For families, Allaben Primitive Campsites provides more structure than fully dispersed options. A visitor mentioned it includes a "picnic table, fire pit with cooking griddle" making meal preparation easier with children.
Moderate hiking options: Echo Lake requires hiking in but remains accessible for families with older children. One camper called it "perfect for my first backpacking trip" and mentioned that "sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees."
Space sharing awareness: Popular water-adjacent sites fill quickly. An Echo Lake visitor noted "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," suggesting families arrive early or mid-week.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential for comfort, especially near water. Echo Lake campers specifically mention bringing "bug spray" due to conditions near the lake edge during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Rider Hollow technically permits RVs but access is challenging for anything beyond small campervans. The narrow roads and limited turnaround space make this unsuitable for larger trailers or motorhomes.
Town proximity considerations: When evaluating dispersed camping for resupply needs, note that some areas like Allaben are "right off the main road and close to town" while others require significant driving for supplies. One Hickok Brook camper noted "It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Restricted vehicle access: Most areas have strict limitations on where vehicles can go. At Hickok Brook, a camper observed "No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," indicating the need to park and carry gear to actual campsites.
