Dispersed camping near Stony Point, New York offers primitive wilderness experiences within the Hudson Valley region. The area's varied terrain includes dense woodland areas and mountainous landscapes that range from 500 to 1,200 feet in elevation. Seasonal considerations significantly impact the camping experience, with spring bringing substantial mud conditions and summer introducing dense insect populations throughout the forested camping zones.
What to do
Hiking connected trail systems: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park connects to additional protected forest land, creating extensive trail networks. One visitor notes, "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."
Wildlife observation: Dawn breaks early in summer months, making morning hours ideal for spotting native wildlife. A camper at Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed shared, "It's quiet & off the beaten path... 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."
Photography opportunities: The natural forest settings provide year-round photography potential, though light conditions vary significantly by season. "99% of 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," reports a visitor to Taconic Hereford.
What campers like
Complete seclusion: Many rustic camping areas near Stony Point remain undiscovered by casual visitors. A camper at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park emphasized, "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."
Proximity to climbing areas: Several sites serve as convenient basecamps for rock climbing enthusiasts. One visitor to Hemlock Ridge MUA noted, "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. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks."
Limited camping population: Small parking areas naturally restrict visitor numbers. A camper at Hickok Brook observed, "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."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some state land requires camping permits not mentioned at trailheads. "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," advises a Hickok Brook visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality and maintenance. One camper warns, "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."
Cell service realities: Despite wilderness settings, many areas maintain surprising connectivity. A visitor to Taconic Hereford explained, "hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Bugs can be particularly troublesome for children in warmer months. A camper at Hemlock Ridge confirmed, "Bugs are relentless," making proper repellent and protective clothing essential for family comfort.
Limited facilities planning: The complete absence of amenities requires thorough preparation for families. "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here," notes a visitor, emphasizing the need to bring all essentials including water, waste disposal bags, and emergency supplies.
Small site logistics: Limited parking affects arrival timing for family groups. One Floyd Bennett Field visitor recommends arriving early in the day, particularly on weekends when the few available parking spaces fill quickly with day hikers and overnight campers.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle accessibility limits: Most primitive camping sites near Stony Point cannot accommodate recreational vehicles. A camper at Hickok Brook discovered, "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."
Alternative options: RVers seeking dispersed camping should consider established campgrounds with primitive sections instead of true backcountry areas. "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," noted one camper about the tight confines that make larger vehicle camping impossible.
