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Established Camping

East Otto State Forest

10 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

East Otto State Forest, near East Otto, New York, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of solitude in nature. With designated sites that allow for primitive camping, it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Visitors often rave about the peacefulness of the area, with many noting that they felt completely secluded during their stay. One camper shared, “Absolutely perfect primitive camp site! I was the only person there, it was gorgeous and so peaceful.” The forest is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it ideal for hiking and exploring, with nearby Zoar Valley offering additional outdoor adventures.

While the campground doesn’t have many amenities—no drinking water or electric hookups—this is part of its charm for those looking to disconnect. Campers appreciate the freedom to have campfires and the fact that it’s free to stay here. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as some visitors have pointed out the need for better cleanliness in the area.

If you’re bringing your furry friends along, you’ll be glad to know that pets are welcome here. With a mix of tent and RV sites, East Otto State Forest is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a rustic camping experience without the frills. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire or soaking in the tranquility, this spot is sure to leave you feeling refreshed.

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Location

East Otto State Forest is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

42.43607023 N
78.78357167 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Triple R Camping Resort and Trailer Sales

Triple R Camping Resort and Trailer Sales

40 min away

Hanging Bog Big Bass Serenity Camp

Hanging Bog Big Bass Serenity Camp

1 hr 2 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if East Otto State Forest needs a permit.

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General Info

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Reviews

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10 Reviews

Maddie C.
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2024

Great spot!

We went for a quick weekend trip with 3 people and 4 dogs. What a great spot! We were nice and secluded, which was great for the dogs to run around, be safe, and not bother other campers. It was relatively easy to find and the campsite is pretty close to Zoar Valley for a nice day trip! We will definitely be back :)

Site12
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Maddie C., July 14, 2024
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Maddie C., July 14, 2024
C
Reviewed Apr. 12, 2023

Beautiful and quiet

Absolutely perfect primitive camp site! I was the only person there, it was gorgeous and so peaceful. Pro tip: dont be a dumb dumb like me. I used the Dyrt provided gps coordinates and was dropped into a residential area. Used the map on the parks website to get back on track and it was really simple. Also, it said there would be verizon cell service, there was absolutely nothin. I will absolutely be back!

SiteStayed in my camper van
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Courtney C., April 12, 2023
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Courtney C., April 12, 2023
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Courtney C., April 12, 2023
  • (5) View All
A
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2022

Best spot around (probably)

After sleeping in parking lots and rest stops, it is so nice to have a place where you don’t fear law enforcement knocking at your car/tent, and it’s FREE! There are 14 designated spots and I am unsure of the popularity of this place but it’s a Friday night and there were multiple open stops rolling in at 8 PM. We are currently sitting around a fire and are so grateful for the wonderful woods here we get to inhabit (for up to 3 days without asking for permission!)

Site9
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of East Otto State Forest by Aidan C., August 27, 2022
Lizzy K.
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2021

Nice sites pretty wet ground

This was a nice secluded feeling site, neighbors are pretty close by and you can hear them but a good amount of private space to yourself. Maybe non rainy season is better for this site, my boots became very muddy

Month of VisitNovember
Nicholas K.
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2020

Nice little escape

This was my first real camping trip since I was a boy, almost 30  years ago.

I was pleasantly surprised with the experience.  I'm not a big people person so I was worried it was going to be people on top of people, but it wasn't.  Sites were spaced out enough that you know someone was in the site next to you, but you couldn't see them.

The real drag was the cleanliness of the sites, we arrived on a Thursday and pretty much had our pick of sites out of 15.  I think we found the cleanest non occupied one by far, but there were others that it looked like a kegger was hosted there the night before.

Please practice carry in/carry out.

Each site had a clearing for at least 1 fairly sized tent, a ringed campfire and plenty of branches and sticks to get things going.

Some wildlife around, but for the most part it was you and nature.

There is a small town not 15 minutes away if you needed or forgot something and it was pretty simple to get there.

I think we have decided to go back again this year as it is close enough to Buffalo, NY that there isn't a lot of planning involved.

Site#5
Month of VisitJuly
Joseph F.
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2019

Decent

Nice campground, free, fishing, secluded, everyone needs to start picking up their trash though

Showing results 1-10 of 10 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is East Otto State Forest Campground located and how do I access it?

East Otto State Forest Campground is located in Western New York, near Zoar Valley. When accessing the campground, be sure to use the official park website map rather than GPS coordinates, as some navigation systems may direct you to nearby residential areas by mistake. The campground features 14 designated camping spots spread throughout the forest. It's relatively easy to find once you're on the correct route, and the camping area is accessible by car with sites situated close enough to park your vehicle.

What do visitor reviews say about East Otto State Forest Campground?

East Otto State Forest Campground receives consistently positive feedback for its seclusion and peaceful atmosphere. Campers appreciate the free camping opportunity and spacious, well-distributed sites that provide privacy while still being accessible. Many highlight the campground's proximity to Zoar Valley for day trips. The primitive nature appeals to those seeking an authentic outdoor experience away from crowds. Some mention occasional issues with muddy conditions during rainy periods and emphasize the importance of properly disposing of trash. Overall, it's particularly favored by those wanting to escape noise and enjoy nature with minimal interruption.

What primitive camping facilities are available at East Otto State Forest Campground?

East Otto State Forest offers true primitive camping with no hookups, running water, or modern amenities. The campground features 14 designated camping spots that provide a secluded outdoor experience. Sites are spacious and well-distributed, offering privacy while still being accessible. There are fishing opportunities nearby, and the natural setting is ideal for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience. This is strictly primitive camping - be prepared to bring all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal options.

Are reservations required for camping at East Otto State Forest?

Reservations are not required for camping at East Otto State Forest. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its 14 designated camping spots. This free camping area generally has availability, even on weekends, though popularity may vary by season. For the most options, arriving earlier is recommended, especially during peak camping seasons. Since this is public land, be prepared for variable conditions and bring everything you need for a self-sufficient stay.

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