Best Dispersed Camping near Tarrytown, NY

Dispersed camping near Tarrytown, New York includes two primary areas: Hemlock Ridge Multiple Use Area and Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park. Both locations offer primitive camping experiences with minimal amenities on public land. Hemlock Ridge MUA spans approximately 80 acres of forested land where campers can set up at sites located at least 150 feet from established trails. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides a more extensive camping area with over 900 acres of protected forest land that connects to additional wilderness areas, creating a more remote backcountry experience despite being relatively close to town.

Access to these dispersed camping areas requires hiking in, as both locations feature walk-in only sites with no vehicle camping options. Neither area provides drinking water, electric hookups, toilets, or other amenities typically found at developed campgrounds. Both locations permit campfires and allow alcohol consumption, though campers must follow standard Leave No Trace principles. Cell service is generally available at Taconic Hereford, while Hemlock Ridge has limited connectivity. The parking areas are notably small, with Hemlock Ridge accommodating only 4-6 vehicles in its lot, requiring early arrival during busy periods.

The camping experience varies between these locations. Hemlock Ridge serves primarily as a convenient overnight option for climbers visiting nearby areas. "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities," one camper noted, adding that "bugs are relentless" in the area. Taconic Hereford offers a more immersive wilderness experience while maintaining proximity to town. A visitor described it as "a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it," noting that despite being "less than 10 min drive from town," the hiking required to reach suitable camping spots "has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service." The area features numerous trails for exploration and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Both locations are free to use, making them budget-friendly alternatives to established campgrounds in the region.