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Map showing campground location near Hector, New York
Camper submitted image from Foster Pond Camping AreaView 4 Photos
Signs & MapsMap showing campground location near Hector, New York

Foster Pond Camping Area

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails run through Finger Lakes National Forest, and Foster Pond Camping Area sits at the center of that network, at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop Road near Hector, New York. The camping is dispersed and free. There are no amenities of any kind, so campers should arrive fully self-sufficient. A small parking lot at the intersection provides a staging point, and dispersed sites are found in the woods around the pond. Blueberry Patch Campground is a nearby alternative for campers who want a more developed setup, and campgrounds around Finger Lakes National Forest cover a range of access and amenity levels.

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Map & DirectionsFoster Pond Camping Area is located in New York near Hector

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

42.499925628239865 N
76.78987758591003 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 7 users
    Last on 7/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/23/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 7 users
    Last on 7/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/23/26

Access

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

Site Types

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

Features

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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.

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Foster Pond Camping Area

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Sep. 13, 2024

Relaxed Free Dispersed Camping

Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you’ll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you’ll find free dispersed camping.

My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren’t bothered. NO AMENITIES

Siteparking lot/ dispersed camping
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Foster Pond Camping Area by Jacob D., September 13, 2024
  • Review photo of Foster Pond Camping Area by Jacob D., September 13, 2024
  • Review photo of Foster Pond Camping Area by Jacob D., September 13, 2024
  • (4) View All
Showing results 1-1 of 1 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Foster Pond Camping Area?

Foster Pond Camping Area offers primitive, dispersed camping with minimal amenities. As a free camping area within the Finger Lakes National Forest, it provides a natural, back-to-basics camping experience. There are no developed facilities such as running water, electricity, or designated fire rings. Campers should be prepared to bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and waste disposal bags. The camping area maintains a rustic character ideal for those seeking an immersive forest experience without modern conveniences.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Foster Pond?

Foster Pond offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. The pond itself is the centerpiece for anglers, while surrounding forest trails provide scenic walks through typical Finger Lakes woodland. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding, with various forest and water species inhabiting the area. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the natural beauty, especially around dawn and dusk. The peaceful setting is also perfect for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Where is Foster Pond Camping Area located and how do I get there?

Foster Pond Camping Area is located at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop Road in the Finger Lakes National Forest in New York. If traveling north on Potomac Road, turn left at this intersection to find the parking lot. From there, dispersed camping sites can be found in the wooded areas surrounding the pond. The location offers a secluded camping experience within the beautiful Finger Lakes region, providing easy access to the natural features of the national forest.

How do I make reservations for Foster Pond Camping Area?

No reservations are needed for Foster Pond Camping Area as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This free dispersed camping area in the Finger Lakes National Forest doesn't have a formal reservation system. Sites around the pond are available to whoever arrives first. During peak summer weekends and holidays, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. For the most current information on camping policies, contact the Finger Lakes National Forest district office.

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