Dispersed camping near Roscoe, New York provides access to the western Catskill Mountains, an area characterized by mixed hardwood forests and elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop well below freezing. Cell phone coverage throughout primitive camping areas remains spotty to nonexistent, with most carriers showing limited service beyond town limits.
What to do
Hiking access from campsites: Denning Trailhead offers primitive camping with hiking options to nearby peaks. According to camper Ali B., there are "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."
Stream fishing opportunities: Most primitive campsites in the region provide access to small streams and rivers. At Betty Brook Camp, Robert B. notes: "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots." The area's streams contain native brook trout and stocked brown trout.
Winter exploration: The region offers year-round camping options with varied accessibility. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, camper Felix R. found it to be a "great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What campers like
Secluded natural settings: Many dispersed sites offer privacy away from crowds. Camper Peter describes Betty Brook Camp as "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."
Well-maintained primitive sites: Despite their remote locations, some sites offer surprisingly good conditions. At Duck Pond Campsite, Yae U. found "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."
Lakeside camping options: Several dispersed campsites provide access to small lakes. James A. describes his experience at Echo Lake: "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
What you should know
Challenging access roads: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. As The L. warns about Duck Pond Campsite: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse."
Limited camping space: Several areas offer only a few designated camping spots. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. notes: "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you."
State forest permits: Some campsites require permits for overnight stays. Gregg T. learned this at Hickok Brook when a ranger informed him: "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
Sites with amenities: Some dispersed sites offer basic amenities suitable for families. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, Breanne H. found "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."
Lean-to options: For families wanting shelter options beyond tents, some areas provide lean-tos. Kate describes Echo Lake: "There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake. The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees."
Bug preparation: Families should pack insect repellent, particularly in summer months. Kate warns about Echo Lake: "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Small RVs only: Most dispersed sites accommodate only the smallest RVs or truck campers. Corey at Hickok Brook advises: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping."
Town proximity considerations: When selecting sites for supply runs, consider distance to nearest towns. Peter notes about Betty Brook Camp: "It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers."
Winter accessibility: RVers should check road conditions carefully during winter months. Joshua M. cautions about Beals Pond State Forest: "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
