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Best Dispersed Camping near Sterling Forest, NY

8 Reviews

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.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Sterling Forest, New York (6)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    2. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    36 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    3. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    40 miles

    "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

    "Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

    4. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    2 Reviews
    Shawnee on Delaware, NJ
    42 miles
    Website

    "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre."

    "We had thought there was a shelter (there isn’t) but it was fine. No ground fires. No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip). Great views!"

    5. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    6. Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

    Be the first to review!
    Queens, NY
    47 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Sterling Forest, NY

8 Photos of 6 Sterling Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Sterling Forest, NY

8 Reviews of 6 Sterling Forest Campgrounds

  • R
    Jul. 12, 2017

    Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    Small but kind of your only option

    I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre. Also it's a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!

    That being said, as you enter the Worthington State Forest there are signs and hand painted maps indicating that this is the only place you can sleep in the forest. So if this is your timing, this is where you'll be sleeping! The site itself is unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail so it's not hard to find.

    Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond. There are lots of signs around Sunfish pond itself that there's no camping allowed.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    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. 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. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • Doc B.
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    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. Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. 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. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    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. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & 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. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • Katharine T.
    May. 31, 2022

    Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    Perfect balance of community and space

    We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT. There’s plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too. We’ll maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn’t) but it was fine. No ground fires. No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip). Great views!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    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. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. 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.

Guide to Sterling Forest

Dispersed camping near Sterling Forest, New York, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping away from traditional sites. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Hickok Brook

  • Hickok Brook features a serene environment with only a few spots available, making it an ideal choice for those seeking peace and quiet.
  • Access is limited to hike-in and walk-in, so be prepared to carry your gear for a bit to reach this hidden gem.
  • The area is well-reviewed for its beautiful lakeside views, but remember to bring everything you need, as there are no amenities available.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Sterling Forest, New York

  • Consider visiting Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, where camping is allowed anywhere 150 feet from the trail, providing ample space to set up your tent.
  • This location is free and does not require a permit, making it a budget-friendly option for campers looking to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.
  • Be aware that bugs can be relentless in this area, so pack some insect repellent to ensure a more comfortable stay.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Sterling Forest

  • The Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is perfect for hikers looking to rest after a long day on the trail, with plenty of space for tents and hammocks.
  • This site is well-maintained and offers bear boxes for food storage, ensuring a safe experience while enjoying the natural surroundings.
  • Although there are no water sources nearby, it's a short hike to Sunfish Pond, where you can refill your supplies and take in the scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Sterling Forest?

When dispersed camping in Sterling Forest and surrounding areas, standard Leave No Trace principles apply. At Hickok Brook, vehicle access is limited due to rough roads with large potholes, and high clearance vehicles are necessary to reach camping spots. Some areas prohibit motor vehicles beyond certain points. At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, bear boxes are provided for proper food storage. Generally, campers must stay at least 150ft from trails, bring in all necessary supplies including water, and pack out all trash. No permanent structures or modifications to the landscape are permitted.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Sterling Forest?

Sterling Forest offers several dispersed camping options in the surrounding area. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides primitive camping with no amenities, allowing campers to set up at least 150ft from the trail on its 80 acres of forest land. The small parking lot accommodates 4-6 vehicles. Another option is Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, which offers a secluded wilderness experience less than 10 minutes from town. The park requires hiking in to find suitable camping spots, creating a true backcountry experience despite its proximity to civilization.

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sterling Forest, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sterling Forest, NY is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sterling Forest, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Sterling Forest, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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