Dispersed camping options around Apalachin, New York extend beyond the Long Pond area to include several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Located in the Southern Tier region between Binghamton and Elmira, this area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during the day with cooler 50-60°F nights, making tent camping comfortable with proper gear.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple fishing locations exist at Long Pond Campground, situated about 25 miles northwest of Apalachin. "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and three are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1," notes Janet R.
Kayaking opportunities: Bring your own kayak to launch at various water access points. "We came into the camping area on a Sunday and found site 7 available. About 100 yards away was the public fishing dock and another camp site. There were two young men fishing there at about 7 PM," reports Kevin C. from Long Pond Campground.
Hiking nearby state forests: Explore unmarked trails in surrounding state lands. At Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite, "This is a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York. It is located in a beautiful, unspoiled and seldom visited region of state forest, providing a wilderness type experience fairly close to several nearby villages."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many area campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts," writes Tim W., highlighting the generous site dimensions.
Access to water features: Campers consistently mention water proximity as a highlight. Kevin C. describes his Long Pond experience: "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel." This indicates the balance of convenient access with natural setting.
Rustic amenities: Basic facilities meet essential needs without disturbing the wilderness feel. "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," notes Kevin C. about Long Pond Campground.
What you should know
Supply limitations: Most dispersed camping requires self-sufficiency. "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," explains Kevin C. from Long Pond Campground.
Cell service variability: Mobile coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. At Oh! Pear Orchards, "This is a special place! Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible, close to state parks and lots of wide, open undeveloped space," states Heather T., though cell service details aren't mentioned.
Seasonal accessibility: Many unpaved access roads become difficult during wet weather or winter months. "We were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable, not their fault," mentions Tim W. about Belden Hill Campgrounds, suggesting visitors should check conditions before arriving.
Tips for camping with families
Campground security: Choose sites with clear ownership and management for family safety. Bruce H. from Riverside Acres Campground notes, "Resident owner is easy to get along with as long as you respect the grounds. She has a wealth of knowledge of the area."
Space for activities: Select campgrounds with open areas for play. "Lawn big enough to play your sport," mentions Bruce H. about Riverside Acres, making it suitable for families with children needing space to run around.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bird watching opportunities enhance the family camping experience. "The river in front of first row sites is 200 m broad. Eagles fish here. You can too," adds Bruce H., describing the wildlife viewing potential at Riverside Acres.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Apalachin cannot accommodate larger RVs. At Gardner Hill Campground, "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views," says Avery R., suggesting the primitive nature of most local camping options.
Limited hookup availability: Few campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs. "Really nice clean and quiet campground. Incredible views. Staff and residents so helpful and friendly. Clean bathrooms and laundry rooms," Jennifer K. explains about Belden Hill Campgrounds, one of the few places offering more comprehensive RV services.
Alternative shower facilities: Most primitive camping areas lack shower facilities. "If you paddle in, come prepared for comfortable isolation. If you have wheels, anything can be bought with a run into Wyalusing, or Towanda," advises Bruce H. about finding facilities outside Riverside Acres Campground.
