Best Dispersed Camping near Sterling Forest, NY
Dispersed camping near Sterling Forest, New York includes several primitive sites with no amenities, primarily on multiple use areas and state forest lands. Hemlock Ridge Multiple Use Area provides free dispersed camping opportunities approximately 25 miles east of Sterling Forest, where campers must set up at least 150 feet from marked trails. The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, located northeast of Sterling Forest, permits primitive camping across its 900+ acres of forested land. Additional options include Hickok Brook to the west, which features lakeside tent sites accessible via rough roads.
Access to most dispersed camping areas requires careful navigation on unpaved roads with varying conditions. Hemlock Ridge MUA features a small parking area accommodating only 4-6 vehicles, with hiking required to reach suitable camping spots. Hickok Brook's access road contains large potholes requiring high-clearance vehicles, making it unsuitable for RVs or trailers. Most sites lack drinking water, toilets, and other facilities, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles. Cell service varies significantly between locations, with some areas maintaining coverage despite their remote feel.
These primitive camping areas provide varying experiences based on location and terrain. Hemlock Ridge MUA attracts rock climbers due to its proximity to popular climbing areas, though reviews note "bugs are relentless" during warmer months. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park offers a more secluded experience while maintaining cell service, with one visitor describing it as "a hidden gem" where "99% of people don't even know this area exists." At Hickok Brook, campers find "beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" with limited space that can fill quickly during holiday weekends. Most locations require permits for overnight stays on New York state land, available through the appropriate county ranger's office.
