Best Dispersed Camping near Sparrow Bush, NY

Dispersed camping options near Sparrow Bush, New York include several primitive sites within driving distance. Hickok Brook offers lakeside tent camping with limited spots and requires a permit from the county ranger's office. The road access is challenging with large potholes, requiring vehicles with good clearance. According to recent visitors, only about three designated camping spots exist, and motor vehicles are restricted beyond certain points.

The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides hike-in tent sites with bear boxes and hammock-friendly trees. No water is available directly at this site; campers must stock up at Dunnfield Creek or Sunfish Pond. Several campers noted that "no ground fires are allowed" and the site offers "a good balance of community and secluded spots." This location serves as the only authorized overnight option within Worthington State Forest.

Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed camping features a small parking area (4-5 vehicles maximum) and approximately 80 acres of wooded terrain. Standard Leave No Trace principles apply, with camping permitted 150 feet from established trails. The area lacks amenities but allows fires and pets. Visitors report minimal cell service and note the absence of mountain views, describing it instead as "a quiet, peaceful wooded area." This site is particularly popular with rock climbers accessing nearby climbing areas.

For backpackers seeking more remote options, Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping provides riverside sites approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. This area serves as a strategic base camp for hikers planning to summit Tabletop or Peekamoose Mountain. A lean-to shelter is available near the top of Tabletop Mountain for those continuing their journey upward.