Best Dispersed Camping near West Shokan, NY

The Catskill Mountain region surrounding West Shokan, New York features predominantly primitive and dispersed camping options across state forests and public lands. Echo Lake offers tent sites around a scenic mountain lake with fire pits and a lean-to, while Denning Trailhead provides access to riverside primitive camping about 1.5 miles from the parking area. Allaben Primitive Campsites and Duck Pond Campsite represent more accessible options with small clearings for tents and basic fire rings. Most sites in this region maintain a rustic character with minimal amenities, catering primarily to tent campers seeking natural settings rather than developed facilities.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds requiring travel on unpaved forest roads with potholes and rough terrain. As one camper noted about Duck Pond Campsite, "The road in was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many sites, particularly after rain. Cell service remains intermittent or nonexistent at most locations. Permits may be required for camping on New York State land, with regulations varying by county. Campers should contact the appropriate ranger's office before arrival to confirm current requirements and conditions.

Waterfront locations consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, though they come with specific challenges. Echo Lake campers report that sites "can get swampy near the edge of the lake," recommending bug spray during warmer months. Many primitive sites feature established fire rings and flat tent pads but lack amenities like picnic tables, potable water, or toilets. Winter camping opportunities exist at several locations, with one visitor noting Burnt Rossman State Forest's Westkill Camp as "a great location for winter camping." Privacy varies by location and season, with some campers reporting complete solitude while others mention sharing space during peak periods. Leave No Trace principles are emphasized throughout the region's camping areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near West Shokan, New York (14)

    1. Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    1 Review
    Claryville, NY
    8 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."

    2. Echo Lake

    2 Reviews
    Woodstock, NY
    14 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."

    3. Allaben Primitive Campsites

    1 Review
    Shandaken, NY
    10 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."

    5. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path."

    6. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "99% off 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."

    7. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    38 miles

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

    "Entrance is soft"

    8. Duck Pond Campsite

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY
    39 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"

    9. Betty Brook Camp

    2 Reviews
    West Fulton, NY
    41 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"

    10. Sage's Revine

    1 Review
    Taconic, CT
    43 miles
    Website

    "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near West Shokan, NY

19 Reviews of 14 West Shokan 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.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    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 but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • Doc B.
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    99% off 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. 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. 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. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • 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

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near 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. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it’s quiet & off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather 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. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • 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.


Guide to West Shokan

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

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

  • For a truly immersive experience, consider Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, which offers great spots just a 1.5-mile hike from the trailhead, allowing you to camp by the river.
  • If you're looking for a picturesque setting, Echo Lake features tent sites around the lake with fire pits, providing a perfect backdrop for evening campfires.
  • Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles at Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping to help preserve the natural beauty of the area for future visitors.

Scenic hikes and breathtaking views for dispersed campers

Activities to enjoy while free camping near West Shokan

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities near Duck Pond Campsite, where the small pond offers a quiet spot to cast a line.
  • If you're interested in horseback riding, Betty Brook Camp allows for a unique camping experience with access to trails suitable for equestrian activities.
  • For a more adventurous outing, consider hiking to the nearby peaks after camping at Allaben Primitive Campsites, where you can enjoy stunning views and challenging trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near West Shokan, NY is Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near West Shokan, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.