Dispersed camping options near Shokan, New York provide rustic camping experiences within the Catskill region at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet. Road access varies considerably depending on seasonal conditions, with many sites accessible only from late spring through fall. Winter camping requires additional preparation, specialized gear, and awareness of significantly colder temperatures at higher elevations.
What to do
Streamside exploration: At Betty Brook Camp, campers can enjoy multiple spots directly along a running stream. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," notes Robert B., who has been visiting the area for decades. The location offers year-round accessibility, though winter requires cold-weather preparation.
Trail connections: The primitive camping near Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides access to extensive hiking networks. As one camper reports, "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." Cell service remains available throughout most of the park despite the wilderness setting.
Winter camping: Burnt Rossman State Forest offers suitable locations for cold-weather camping enthusiasts. "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road," reports Felix R. about his experience at the Westkill Camp area. The sites remain accessible during snow season, though additional gear for subfreezing temperatures is necessary.
What campers like
Solitude and quietude: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides isolation from crowds. Dawn M. describes it as "a quiet peaceful wooded area and although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere." The parking area accommodates 4-5 vehicles, limiting overcrowding.
Proximity to water sources: Duck Pond Campsite offers campsites with water features. "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," reports Yae U., though adding caution about access conditions. Most water sources in the region remain undeveloped without filtration systems.
Convenient access: Some dispersed sites provide easy road access without extensive hiking. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, Breanne H. notes the "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town" that includes amenities like "Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road."
What you should know
Vehicle limitations: Road conditions present challenges at multiple sites. At Duck Pond Campsite, The L. warns, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse." Another camper suggests "Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Facilities inventory: Pack accordingly for minimal amenities. Sage's Revine provides "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available," according to Luke A., making it one of the few sites with bear storage.
Seasonal considerations: Betty Brook Camp remains accessible throughout seasons. "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone," explains Robert B., highlighting the changing occupancy levels based on weather and time of year.
Tips for camping with families
Consider water access: Sites with streams or ponds provide natural entertainment for children. "Small pond-don't think there are any fish," notes Breanne H. about Allaben Primitive Campsites, but the water feature still adds recreational value for families.
Proximity requirements: For families with younger children, choose sites with shorter approaches. "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead," suggests Ali B., which represents a moderate distance manageable for school-age children but potentially challenging for toddlers.
Bug protection: Several campgrounds report seasonal insect activity. "Bugs are relentless," warns Cory D. about Hemlock Ridge MUA, making insect repellent essential equipment from late spring through early fall, particularly near water sources.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small trailers or truck campers. Peter notes 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."
Surface conditions: Campers with larger vehicles report access difficulties. The L. advises Duck Pond is "Small vehicle only" because "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."
Parking limitations: Identify designated parking areas before arrival. Multiple reviews mention limited parking capacity, with Dawn M. noting Hemlock Ridge "parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," indicating weekday visits may provide better opportunities for larger vehicles.
