Dispersed camping in this state forest requires campers to find their own spots along forest roads and clearings. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation manages these 2,400 acres in the Catskill foothills, where drive-in access allows vehicle-based camping without designated sites or amenities. Campers must be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other necessities.
Forest roads provide access to potential camping areas, though conditions vary seasonally and some may require high-clearance vehicles. The nearest resupply point lies in campgrounds outside Preston Hollow for those needing additional provisions. This setup works best for experienced campers comfortable with primitive conditions and Leave No Trace principles.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRensselaerville State Forest is located in New York near Preston Hollow
Coordinates
42.5019087 N
74.21791165 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Rensselaerville State Forest needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 35 min from Albany, NY
- 59 min from Kingston, NY
- 1 hr 18 min from Pittsfield, MA
- 1 hr 18 min from Glens Falls, NY
