Dispersed camping near Selkirk, New York primarily centers on state forest locations within a 45-mile radius. Most sites are primitive with no amenities, situated at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. Winter access remains possible at several locations despite seasonal road closures, with many campsites maintaining packed snow trails through January and February for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Echo Lake offers secluded camping with trail access that requires some preparation. "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)," reports camper James A., who recommends setting up "on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Water activities: Betty Brook Camp provides stream access for fishing and cooling off during summer months. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," notes Robert B., who has been "coming to the area for a couple of decades now."
Wildlife viewing: George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers nature observation opportunities with minimal human interference. "Great spot for quiet desolate camping. Several spots to choose from," writes Evan M., highlighting the undisturbed natural setting ideal for wildlife spotting.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot features well-separated camping areas. "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none," notes Danny D., emphasizing the solitude available despite multiple camping options.
Winter accessibility: Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp maintains year-round camping potential. Felix R. confirms it's a "great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
Fire pit quality: Campers frequently note the well-constructed fire rings at available sites. "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious... this area was excellent!" reports Michele N. about NFR 273, while Tam E. found "large, well organized camping spots along the road" with a "beautifully built fire pit" at George D Aiken Wilderness.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Duck Pond Campsite requires careful vehicle planning. "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse," cautions The L., adding that "the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it," despite the site itself being "pretty nice" with a "fire pit, trickling stream."
Cell service limitations: Service is inconsistent across most dispersed camping areas, with some exceptions. Duck Pond has "intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads," according to The L., while George D Aiken offers better connectivity as noted by AcIdBuRn: "Different size sites, att cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores."
Seasonal crowding: Some seemingly remote areas can become unexpectedly busy. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," reports SJ W. about NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, adding that "many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential at most sites. "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well," warns Natasha T. about NFR 273, suggesting families should "find another campsite that is more open and also has a fire pit with a lot less bugs flying around."
Nearby amenities: For families needing periodic access to supplies, several sites offer reasonable proximity to towns. "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites," notes c H. about George D Aiken, while Peter mentions Betty Brook has "a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Lean-to options: Echo Lake provides shelter options for families not wanting to rely solely on tents. Kate notes, "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," adding that the "sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity considerations: Most dispersed sites have limited space for larger vehicles. "This spot is right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet. Entrance is soft," notes The L. about Burnt Rossman State Forest.
Weather planning: Wet conditions significantly impact site availability for RVs. David G. shares his experience at George D Aiken: "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so."
Road width challenges: Peter advises about Betty Brook Camp: "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
