The central New York region surrounding Apulia Station sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation in the Appalachian Upland, featuring rolling hills and scenic valleys with numerous streams. Pet friendly camping near Apulia Station provides access to multiple state forests where primitive campsites offer solitude among mature woodlands. The Morgan Hill State Forest area includes over 5,000 acres with various camping options ranging from drive-up sites with cement pads to remote backcountry locations.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Green Lakes State Park Campground offers miles of trails with varying difficulties for hikers with dogs. "The hike around the lake is about 2 miles and it totally worth it! Plenty of picnic areas as well," notes Meag F., who appreciates the unique blue-green waters that give the park its name.
Swimming at natural areas: Fillmore Glen State Park Campground maintains a natural swimming pool with lifeguard supervision during summer months. According to Cindy H., "This is a very nice campground. There are many sites with electric available at every site... Swimming is available at the large beach. You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake."
Kayaking on glacial lakes: Woonton Family Farms provides access to water recreation with canoe opportunities. Willemien V. reports, "We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing. Close to the nice village Skaneateles. It was a welcome difference from the common/look-alike campgrounds everywhere else."
What campers like
Private camping areas: Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers secluded sites away from crowds. Janet R. explains, "This location is peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers, and would be an ideal setting for a group campout."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at Fillmore Glen State Park. "Bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites. Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," writes Charyssa G., highlighting the family-friendly environment.
Natural features: Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area provides access to a small pond perfect for non-motorized boats. Janet R. describes it as "pretty with mature shade trees, and the campground also has a trailhead to access a large network of hiking trails. If you want to backpack in, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest."
What you should know
Water availability: At most primitive sites, no potable water is provided. A reviewer of Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed camping notes you need to "bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage."
Reservation requirements: While dispersed camping in state forests is generally free without reservations, established campgrounds like Green Lakes State Park require booking ahead. "This is a very nice campground. There are many sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," explains Cindy H.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from May through October. According to Chelsea B. at Green Lakes State Park, "I can't say much about the amenities since we camped in the off season (really bummed not to rent a boat), but the trails around the lake are great!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Green Lakes State Park offers excellent play areas for children near swimming areas. Sara H. mentions, "Beach is great... Fun hiking area the water is gorgeous. Great playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean."
Educational opportunities: At Fillmore Glen State Park, families can explore the replica of President Millard Fillmore's youth cabin. Brian O. shares, "There is a cabin on site that is the replica of Millard Filmore's youth (13th President of the United States). Loved the area and the beautiful scenery on the hiking trails."
Swimming options for kids: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for families with children. At Green Lakes State Park, Kenneth S. raves, "This park is beautiful and very clean. The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands."
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Yellow Lantern Kampground provides full hookup sites for RVs in a pet-friendly environment. MacKenzi G. reports, "Me and my husband stayed here to visit a local friend and it wasn't bad it was very private and quiet. The property was well maintained and the owners were very friendly as well."
Site dimensions: Some campgrounds offer limited space for larger rigs. At Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area, Janet R. notes, "Site number 1 is quite flat and open and could accomodate a trailer or camper van but isnt very scenic. The other sites are great for tenting but the drive-ins are variable."
Seasonal restrictions: Many RV-friendly campgrounds in the Apulia Station area close during winter months. John D. mentions that Cortlands Country Music Park and Campground has "Electric and water at site" but visitors should check seasonal availability as not all amenities operate year-round.