The Catskill Mountains surrounding Willow, New York provide primitive backcountry camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The region encompasses over 700,000 acres of protected land with camping options situated along streams, near small ponds, and at higher elevations with mountain views. Rustic camping near Willow requires self-sufficiency as most sites lack developed facilities.
What to do
Hike to mountain vistas: Near Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping, campers can access trails leading to notable Catskill peaks. One visitor notes there are "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."
Explore forest trails: The extensive network of hiking paths provides opportunities for day hiking from basecamp. At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, a camper reports "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."
Streamside relaxation: Many primitive sites offer water access for wading or fishing. Betty Brook Camp provides camping directly on a stream, with a visitor noting "you camp on the stream" and that they "love to camp here all year long" because of the peaceful waterside setting.
What campers like
Solitude and disconnection: The remote nature of many Catskill camping areas appeals to those seeking quiet. At Hemlock Ridge MUA, one camper appreciates that "it's quiet & off the beaten path" and notes "there are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here."
Proximity to towns: Despite feeling remote, many camping areas remain relatively close to small communities. A Betty Brook Camp reviewer mentions "there's a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Year-round accessibility: While summer remains the peak season, several camping areas remain open and accessible during colder months. At Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, a winter visitor found it "was a great location for winter camping" with the "site easily accessible from road."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many primitive sites requires navigating unpaved roads of varying quality. A visitor to Duck Pond Campsite warns about "driving unpaved dirt road for a while" and notes that while they found "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites," they caution to "be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions."
Safety precautions: Limited cellular service in much of the region requires advance planning. A Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park camper advises: "Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return."
Leave No Trace requirements: All Catskill forest camping areas require adherence to minimal impact practices. A camper at Sage's Revine notes the availability of "bear boxes" for food storage, while another Echo Lake visitor reminds to "practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: For families new to primitive camping, sites with some amenities provide a gentler introduction. Allaben Primitive Campsites offers a "nice spot right off the main road and close to town" with a "small pond" and includes a "picnic table" and "fire pit with cooking griddle."
Water features: Children often enjoy campsites with water access. Echo Lake provides numerous spots where kids can explore shorelines, though parents should note that "it can get swampy near the edge of the lake."
Space considerations: When camping with children, seek sites with adequate room. Betty Brook Camp may not be ideal as it has "a couple of spots" only, while Burnt Rossman State Forest's Westkill Camp provides "enough room for 2 to 3 campers."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Willow cannot accommodate large recreational vehicles. A reviewer at Betty Brook Camp specifically states "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Parking limitations: Even for smaller vehicles, parking can be restricted at primitive sites. Hemlock Ridge MUA has a small lot that "only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," limiting options for RVers.
Alternative camping styles: For those with RVs seeking a rustic experience, consider camping styles that don't require direct vehicle access. Sage's Revine offers platform camping where "12 platforms available" provide flat, designated spaces with "50 feet between platforms."
