Best Dispersed Camping near West Fulton, NY

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near West Fulton, New York, with several primitive sites available in the surrounding state forests. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp offers accessible primitive camping right off the road with space for 2-3 campers. Betty Brook Camp provides streamside camping with drinking water and picnic tables, though the site is relatively small and not suitable for large trailers. Duck Pond Campsite features well-maintained sites near a small pond, though access requires navigating unpaved roads that can be challenging in wet conditions.

Most dispersed sites in this region permit fires in established fire rings, but campers must bring their own firewood. Several campers noted rough road conditions, particularly at Duck Pond Campsite, where one reviewer warned, "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough... intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads." Vehicle accessibility varies by location; smaller vehicles are recommended for Duck Pond, while Betty Brook Camp sits along West Kill Road about 8 miles from the nearest town.

These state forest campsites generally follow New York's dispersed camping regulations, requiring campers to set up at least 150 feet from water sources, roads, or trails unless at a designated site. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail provides amenities uncommon at other dispersed sites, including potable water, toilets, and trash disposal. The parking area sits directly on the Mohawk River, offering fishing opportunities. Winter camping is possible at some locations, with Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp noted as "a great location for winter camping" according to visitor reviews. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near West Fulton, New York (13)

    1. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    6 miles

    "Was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"

    "Entrance is soft"

    2. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    4 miles

    "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road."

    "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots"

    3. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    4 miles

    "After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad."

    "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads"

    5. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    3 Reviews
    Fort Plain, NY
    27 miles

    "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area."

    "It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."

    6. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    32 miles

    "Nice spot right off the main road and close to town. Small pond-don’t think there are any fish. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking griddle. Trails to the fishing access across the road."

    8. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 652-7365

    "There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. "

    "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."

    9. Ushers Road State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Round Lake, NY
    43 miles

    "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."

    10. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3076

    "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near West Fulton, NY

14 Reviews of 13 West Fulton Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!  There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Open quite campsites

    After driving unpaved dirt road for a while, we arrived a surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites. The pond is small so the mosquitos were not too bad. So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience. Just be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Duck Pond Campsite

    Small vehicle only

    The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse. The site itself, was pretty nice, Fire pit, trickling stream, but the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it. Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads

  • Mona M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Just Passed Lock 15

    Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You’ll see signs that say “No Vehicles Past This Point” — those apply only to the grassy picnic area. The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and fishing (with a valid license). Verizon cell service is good here. At the lock parking area, you'll find pit toilets, a dumpster, and potable water available on the side of the building as you enter.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Great overnight.

    Simply it’s a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. If you need quiet, keep on moving. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap.

  • James A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Echo Lake

    Beautiful lake with lean to

    Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants) We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze.

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    High season

    Well, I’m back, it’s June, and there are 3 other groups here. 1 boat, and 2 tent camping. The parking lot is still empty. The water was significantly lower last time I was here. They have dropped the gates, and the lock is in operation. The resident peacock has been keeping me company. Tried fishing, without any luck, it had been raining a lot lately, so maybe that was the reason. It still has the highway noise and of course the train noise going by, but I love that. I anticipate another lovely sleep. It’s quite breezy, so the windows will be open. I’m in my happy place!!!


Guide to West Fulton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near West Fulton, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near West Fulton, New York

  • When seeking a peaceful retreat, consider the Betty Brook Camp, which offers a remote setting along a stream, perfect for those who appreciate solitude.
  • For a winter camping experience, the Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp provides easy access from the road and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for cold-weather adventurers.
  • If you're looking for well-maintained sites, the Duck Pond Campsite features open areas and a small pond, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a quieter camping experience.

Dispersed campers should check out Duck Pond Campsite

  • The Duck Pond Campsite is accessible via an unpaved dirt road, leading to a surprisingly beautiful and well-kept area.
  • With minimal foot traffic, this site allows for a peaceful camping experience, where you can truly immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of a crowded environment.
  • The small pond nearby helps keep mosquito populations low, making it a comfortable spot for enjoying evenings by the fire.

Featherstonhaugh State Forest Site for dispersed campers

  • The Featherstonhaugh State Forest Site offers a truly primitive camping experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect from modern conveniences.
  • This area is known for its natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal location for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness.
  • With no permits required, you can easily set up camp and enjoy the freedom that comes with dispersed camping in this serene environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near West Fulton, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near West Fulton, NY is Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near West Fulton, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near West Fulton, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.