Dispersed camping in the Catskills region near Spring Glen, New York offers primitive sites on public lands managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Catskill Forest Preserve regulations typically allow camping below 3,500 feet in elevation throughout the area, with most sites situated between 1,200-2,500 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer brings temperatures averaging 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access points along the Neversink River near Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping provide catch-and-release trout fishing. "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," notes reviewer Ali B.
Hiking connections: The Catskill Park trail system connects many dispersed camping areas with longer routes. The Thunder Swamp Trailhead area features multiple trail options as Jason R. reports: "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Birdwatching: Spring and early summer bring migratory songbirds to the wooded areas around Hemlock Ridge MUA. "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path," says Dawn M. about this peaceful habitat.
What campers like
Elevated viewpoints: Campsites on higher ground at Echo Lake provide panoramic perspectives. James A. explains: "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze." These elevated sites also offer better airflow during humid summer nights.
Solitude: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides secluded camping despite proximity to towns. "99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for," writes Doc B. "Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild."
Cooking amenities: Some sites feature basic cooking infrastructure. At Allaben Primitive Campsites, "Fire pit with cooking griddle" is available according to Breanne H., who adds the site is "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town."
What you should know
Cell coverage: While the region generally has limited reception, certain areas maintain connectivity. At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, you can enjoy "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service," according to Doc B.
Permit requirements: Most rustic camping near Spring Glen requires no reservation, but check regulations before arriving. Some areas like Thunder Swamp Trailhead may require permits according to the listed features.
Parking limitations: Vehicle accommodation varies significantly by location. Benjamin H. notes that Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation. Hickok Brook has challenges as Corey reports: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Echo Lake provides an accessible introduction to backcountry camping. Kate shares: "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."
Site availability timing: Arrive early to secure preferred spots. "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," Kate notes about Echo Lake.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection for children. "It can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray," advises Kate regarding Echo Lake conditions.
Town proximity: When camping with children, consider sites near settlements for quick supply runs. Allaben Primitive Campsites is "close to town" with "small pond" according to Breanne H.
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles only: Most rustic camping areas near Spring Glen restrict larger vehicles. Hickok Brook reviewer Corey explains: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Alternative parking options: When camping areas can't accommodate RVs, consider nearby facilities. Gregg T. from Hickok Brook advises: "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Permit verification: Check with ranger offices before setting up. "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," shares Gregg T. regarding Hickok Brook.
