Dispersed camping areas near Tannersville, New York offer primitive backcountry experiences within the Catskill Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 feet. Winter camping options exist year-round at select locations, though temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March. Most sites require campers to be self-sufficient with water filtration systems and waste management protocols.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Allaben Primitive Campsites, campers can explore "trails to the fishing access across the road" as noted by reviewer Breanne H. The nearby pond offers a serene setting, though fishing opportunities may be limited.
Mountain hiking options: Near Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, campers can "wake up to hike to tabletop/peekamoose mountain" according to Ali B., with "a lean-to for camping near the top of tabletop" for extended backcountry trips.
Forest exploration: The 900+ acres at Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park connect to additional protected forests, creating extensive hiking options. One visitor mentions "plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy" while maintaining "the safety of having full cell service" despite the remote feel.
What campers like
Winter camping accessibility: Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp provides year-round options with reviewer felix R. noting it "was a great location for winter camping" with sites "easily accessible from road" even during colder months.
Secluded stream sites: At Betty Brook Camp, campers appreciate that "you camp on the stream" with "a couple of spots" available. One long-time visitor notes they "have been coming to the area for a couple of decades" and values that it remains "remote. Sometimes you never see anyone."
Lake views and breeze: At Echo Lake, one camper reported, "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze," offering natural ventilation during summer months when valley temperatures rise.
What you should know
Vehicle limitations: Access to Duck Pond Campsite requires navigating challenging terrain. A reviewer cautions, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough" and mentions "the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it." Another adds to "be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Cell service concerns: Many dispersed sites have limited connectivity. At Duck Pond, there's "intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads." However, Taconic Hereford provides "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
Site capacity constraints: Burnt Rossman State Forest offers limited space, with reviewer The L. noting "there is enough room for 2 to 3 campers" and recommends "parking across the street if it's wet" due to soft ground at the entrance.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Echo Lake provides an accessible introduction to backcountry camping. One reviewer shared it "was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!" The area features "tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits" suitable for introducing children to primitive camping.
Mosquito preparation: At Echo Lake, a camper warns "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray." At Duck Pond, a visitor noted "the pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad," suggesting location selection affects insect exposure.
Navigational challenges: At Echo Lake, prepare for "navigating through small overgrown trails" with one camper recommending to "wear pants" for protection. Trail markers may be minimal, requiring map reading skills for family safety.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions for trailers: At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, a camper cautions "the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs." Similarly, Betty Brook Camp is described as not recommended "for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Entrance conditions: Wet weather affects access at several locations. At Burnt Rossman, the "entrance is soft" requiring parking alternatives during rainy periods. Small RVs should park on established surfaces only.
Amenities trade-offs: Most dispersed sites lack RV hookups. Betty Brook Camp has a stream alongside and fire pit, but limited facilities beyond that. Sites are described as "rather remote," requiring self-contained waste systems and water storage.
