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Best Dispersed Camping near Schoharie, NY

16 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist in the state forests surrounding Schoharie, New York. Duck Pond Campsite offers primitive tent camping near a small pond, but requires navigation on rough roads. One camper noted, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse." Betty Brook Camp provides streamside camping with fire pits and moderate road access. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp features roadside sites accessible year-round, including winter camping.

Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail permits overnight RV and tent camping in a parking area along the Mohawk River with basic amenities including pit toilets, water, and trash service. The location experiences highway and train noise. According to a visitor, "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River." Echo Lake offers more remote tent camping requiring a 1.5-mile hike in, with sites scattered around the lake and one lean-to. These primitive sites feature fire rings but no facilities, and the area becomes crowded during peak season.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Schoharie, New York (13)

    1. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    14 miles

    "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."

    "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads"

    2. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    14 miles

    "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."

    "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots"

    3. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    16 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    4. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    3 Reviews
    Fort Plain, NY
    24 miles

    "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area."

    "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."

    5. Rensselaerville State Forest

    Be the first to review!
    Preston Hollow, NY
    12 miles

    6. Featherstonhaugh State Forest Site

    Be the first to review!
    Duanesburg, NY
    14 miles

    7. Ushers Road State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Round Lake, NY
    32 miles

    "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."

    8. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "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. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    9. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    39 miles

    "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."

    10. Rockwood State Forest

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    Caroga Lake, NY
    29 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Schoharie, NY

8 Photos of 13 Schoharie Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Schoharie, NY

16 Reviews of 13 Schoharie Campgrounds

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!  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.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  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.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Open quite campsites

    After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a 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. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Small vehicle only

    The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. The site itself, was pretty nice, Fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads

  • Mona M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Just Passed Lock 15

    Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area. The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license). Verizon cell service is good here. At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Great overnight.

    Simply it’s a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    High season

    Well, I’m back, it’s June, and there are 3 other groups here. 1 boat, and 2 tent camping. The parking lot is still empty. The water was significantly lower last time I was here. They have dropped the gates, and the lock is in operation. The resident peacock has been keeping me company. Tried fishing, without any luck, it had been raining a lot lately, so maybe that was the reason. It still has the highway noise and of course the train noise going by, but I love that. I anticipate another lovely sleep. It’s quite breezy, so the windows will be open. I’m in my happy place!!!

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    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 (wear pants) We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    Site 4

    Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site. Occasionally you will get the yahoo that speeds by and makes a dust cloud but otherwise it’s great. There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly,

Guide to Schoharie

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Schoharie, New York, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy a more rustic camping experience. With a variety of locations to choose from, each offering unique features, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Schoharie

  • Enjoy fishing and relaxing by the stream at Betty Brook Camp, where you can set up your tent right by the water's edge.
  • Explore the scenic trails and take in the peaceful surroundings at Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for a quiet escape.
  • Experience the tranquility of nature while birdwatching or picnicking at Duck Pond Campsite, where the small pond adds to the serene atmosphere.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Schoharie, New York

  • Always check the road conditions before heading to Echo Lake, as access can vary, especially after heavy rains.
  • Bring your own firewood and be prepared for a primitive experience at Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping, where amenities are limited but the natural beauty is abundant.
  • Pack out what you pack in to help preserve the pristine environment at Featherstonhaugh State Forest Site, ensuring future visitors can enjoy the same experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Duck Pond Campsite

  • The well-maintained sites at Duck Pond Campsite offer a peaceful retreat with minimal foot traffic, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
  • Be prepared for a bit of adventure as you navigate the unpaved roads leading to Allaben Primitive Campsites, where the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
  • Enjoy the freedom of camping without permits at Rensselaerville State Forest, allowing for spontaneous trips into nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Schoharie, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Schoharie, NY is Duck Pond Campsite with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Schoharie, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Schoharie, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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