Best Dispersed Camping in New York

No matter what kind of camping you’re into; seaside, mountainside, lakeside, even city side, New York has it all. There’s a countless number of places where you can pitch a tent, park a car, or rent a cabin. Camping in New York also means you’ve always got a ton of activities nearby, like swimming, hiking, fishing, canoeing, even mountain biking.

Some of the best camping in New York can be found in the Finger Lakes. Here you’ll find places like the Hickory Hill Family Camping Resort that offers themed weekends, as well as spa services, mini golf, wagon rides, and swimming pools. One of the more popular Finger Lakes destinations is Watkins Glen State Park, which has 19 waterfalls within a two mile walk. The park also has an Olympic sized pool, hot showers, and restrooms.

Dreaming of city life? The Hudson Valley region offers many wonderful places to pitch your tent. Located near the Hudson River, the towns of Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Peekskill, West Point, White Plains, and Suffern (to name a few) all have great areas for camping in New York. And, they’re all accessible by train to and from the city.

If you’re into small maritime villages on the other side of the Hudson River and the East River, Long Island boasts some of the best camping in New York. On the island, surf-casting, fresh seafood, and sandy beaches are plentiful. If you make it all the way out to the end of the island, a visit to the Montauk Lighthouse, which was commissioned by George Washington, is a must see.

And, if mountains are your thing, head to the Catskills, the Adirondacks, or even Bear Mountain State Park where you’ll find forests, hidden streams, hiking trails, and mountains galore. Whatever your style, you’ll find camping in New York to compliment it. With the Dyrt, you’ll be able to discover just the right place to lay your head for a night, a weekend, a week, or even a month.

Best Dispersed Sites in New York (69)

    1. Stillwater Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Old Forge, NY
    Website
    +1 (315) 785-2239

    "We hiked into our site, not easy because almost everything is meant to be accessed by boat so we were guessing our course!"

    "Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees."

    2. Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Tyrone, NY
    Website
    +1 (607) 622-8282

    "We used the map on the state forest website. But most spots have a privy/port o potty. We found the map on the website helpful because there are spots all over."

    "We stayed here during an anniversary trip to the Finger Lakes. Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers. Great location!"

    3. Palmers Pond State Forest

    7 Reviews
    Alfred, NY
    Website
    +1 (585) 466-3241

    "No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp"

    "Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!"

    4. Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping

    4 Reviews
    Tyrone, NY
    Website
    +1 (607) 622-8282

    "About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival."

    "Ranger is super friendly. Our area was slightly isolated but a trail was next to it so horseback riders just appear occasionally to bright your day"

    5. Long Pond Campground

    4 Reviews
    Georgetown, NY

    "Aside from that this was a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock."

    "Campground was easy to locate and the road was in good shape.

    We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie."

    6. Ushers Road State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Round Lake, NY

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

    7. Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    2 Reviews
    Fort Plain, NY

    "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."

    8. Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp

    2 Reviews
    North Blenheim, NY

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

    "Entrance is soft"

    9. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    2 Reviews
    Verbank, NY
    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."

    10. North Lake Reservoir Campground

    2 Reviews
    Otter Lake, NY

    "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."

    "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean."

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Showing results 1-10 of 69 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in New York

76 Reviews of 69 New York Campgrounds



Guide to New York

New York offers a wealth of opportunities for dispersed camping, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the freedom of less structured camping experiences.

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Stillwater Reservoir is a peaceful spot where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite features a lookout tower and well-maintained facilities, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate scenic views and comfort.
  • Palmers Pond State Forest provides beautiful grassy spots along the water, ideal for a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature.

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping in New York