Dispersed camping sites near Suffern, New York are scattered throughout the forested areas of Rockland County and neighboring regions. Most sites require some preparation for backcountry conditions, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to humid 80°F summers. The terrain features mixed hardwood forests with moderate elevation changes, requiring sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate gear.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed serves as a basecamp for climbers heading to 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," notes Cory D., who adds that "many climbers stay there for access to the gunks."
Hiking network exploration: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park connects to extensive trail systems. One camper explains, "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."
Lake activities: Camping near Hickok Brook provides lakeside recreation opportunities. Corey notes the area has "beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" and describes the setting as "very gorgeous" despite access challenges.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed offers isolation from crowds. Dawn M. reports, "If you like dispersed camping, like me - this place is good. There's no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area."
Accessibility with wilderness feel: Several free camping areas near Suffern combine remoteness with convenience. At Taconic Hereford, Doc B. appreciates this balance: "Less than 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."
Simple overnight options: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides basic parking for self-contained camping. Jason R. found it "chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking," while another camper noted, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permit requirements: New York state lands require camping permits. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. learned this firsthand: "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."
Limited site availability: Most dispersed areas have few designated spots. Dawn M. notes about Hemlock Ridge, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight" and found limited camping areas at "literally about the required 150ft from the road."
Road conditions: Hickok Brook has challenging access roads. Corey 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."
Tips for camping with families
Limited facilities planning: Bring all necessary supplies for children when camping at these primitive sites. Tim M. notes about Taconic Hereford: "This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service," which helps with emergency communication for families.
Wildlife awareness: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides bear boxes for food storage. Katharine T. confirms the site is "well maintained with bear boxes provided," making it safer for family camping with proper precautions.
Water logistics: Plan water supplies carefully. Renee Z. advises about the Appalachian Trail site: "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond," as there's "no water nearby" at the campsite itself.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The narrow access roads limit RV camping options. Tim M. cautions about Taconic Hereford: "There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Alternative parking arrangements: Hickok Brook presents challenges for larger vehicles. According to Corey, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup" but found it unsuitable, concluding it's "not RV friendly."
Trailhead overnight options: For self-contained RVs, some trailhead parking areas permit overnight stays. These basic gravel lots provide no amenities but serve as convenient stopover points when traveling between destinations.
