Primitive camping near Salisbury Mills, New York consists primarily of dispersed sites throughout the Catskill region, which spans elevations from 600 to 4,200 feet. Many sites require hikers to travel at least 150 feet from established trails before setting up camp. The terrain varies from lakeside locations to densely wooded hillsides with seasonal access limitations during winter months.
What to do
Hike to riverside camping spots: At Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, campers can find secluded sites about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. "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," reports Ali B.
Fish in nearby waters: Allaben Primitive Campsites provides easy access to fishing areas across from the campground. According to Breanne H., "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."
Explore extensive trail networks: The forested areas connect to larger protected lands with numerous hiking options. Doc B. notes about Taconic Hereford, "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 campers like
Lakeside views: Echo Lake offers scenic camping locations around water. James A. shares, "Lake is 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. We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Proximity to climbing areas: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed serves as a convenient base for rock climbers. 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. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks."
Solitude despite proximity to towns: Many primitive camping areas offer isolation while remaining relatively close to civilization. Dawn M. describes Hemlock Ridge as having "absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Some areas require permits from ranger offices while others don't. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. cautions, "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."
Vehicle access limitations: Many sites have challenging access roads requiring appropriate vehicles. Corey mentions about Hickok Brook, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere."
Site availability concerns: During peak season, sites fill quickly. Kate notes about Echo Lake, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with emergency access: Some primitive camping areas maintain cell service despite feeling remote. According to Doc B., Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return."
Prepare for insects: Water-adjacent sites often have more bugs. Kate advises about Echo Lake, "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Consider hike-in distance: For families with young children, note the distance from parking to campsites. "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead" means carrying all gear and supplies that distance.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most dispersed camping near Salisbury Mills accommodates tents only. Corey cautions, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup... Very gorgeous but not rv friendly."
Parking constraints: Areas with RV access have limited parking capacity. Dawn M. notes about Hemlock Ridge, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
Consider accessibility: Allaben Primitive Campsites is one of the few areas permitting drive-in camping with minimal amenities but includes features like fire pits with cooking griddles.
