Dispersed camping near Afton, New York features numerous primitive sites scattered throughout several state forests within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the northern edge of the Catskill Mountains with elevations ranging from 900-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cool nights, while winter access becomes challenging as most forest roads aren't maintained during snow season.
What to do
Wildlife observation at Round Pond: Visit the unique raised boardwalk that provides views over the bog ecosystem. "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem... One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," notes Janet R. at Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed.
Hiking access to Finger Lakes Trail: Many state forests connect to this extensive trail system, providing both day hikes and overnight camping options. "You can get to the site from state highway 23 via the Benedict Hill Rd, or from the hamlet of Beaver Meadow going south and west of Cole Hill via Mud Lane. A peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend," according to a review of Bear Wallow Pond.
Fishing and paddling: Multiple ponds throughout the area offer good fishing opportunities. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, "If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail."
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: The dispersed nature of these sites means you often have plenty of space to yourself. At Long Pond Campground, "Campground was easy to locate and the road was in good shape. We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie. The other camping spaces we close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet."
Forest immersion: Thick tree cover is common at many sites. At Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed, "The woods are beautiful and the trails are well developed, but also be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer."
No-fee camping: All dispersed camping sites in these state forests are free to use without reservations. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, "Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really 'dispersed' campsites. There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle."
What you should know
Water availability: No potable water exists at these locations. As one camper at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site notes: "This truly is primitive camping, no picnic tables, no lean-to shelter like at some other area FTL campsites, no water source other than the brook (you should filter it even though the source is a spring near by), no latrines, no fire grates though there is a stone fire ring."
Navigation challenges: Many forest roads and trails are unmarked or minimally marked. "Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map," warns a reviewer at Morgan Hill State Forest.
Variable maintenance: Site conditions can range from well-maintained to neglected. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, "Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all. Some have official steel fire rings, some have stone fire rings that are crumbling."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For camping with children, the more established sites may offer better amenities. At Morgan Hill Forest, "There are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible."
Plan for no facilities: Bring portable toilets and plenty of water when camping with kids. One camper noted at Long Pond Campground, "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Check road conditions: Some access roads may be challenging for family vehicles. At Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road. But if you follow the road north to the end, you will come to a dead end and a parking circle."
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: Most sites cannot accommodate large RVs. At Long Pond Campground, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Limited power options: Dense tree cover affects solar capabilities at most sites. "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery," mentions a camper at Long Pond.
Cell service variability: Phone reception varies widely across these forests. At Beals Pond State Forest, "After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
