Morgan Hill and Pharsalia Woods state forests offer tent camping near Apulia Station, New York with sites ranging from basic clearings to those with picnic tables and fire rings. Both forests permit camping year-round, though spring brings muddy conditions when forest roads can become difficult to navigate. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding valleys.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Primitive camping areas around Bear Wallow Pond provide direct fishing access. One visitor described the summer experience: "I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking. If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond."
Mountain biking: Forest roads throughout Pharsalia Woods State Forest provide extensive mountain biking networks. A reviewer noted you can "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."
Wildlife observation: The ponds within the region attract diverse amphibian species. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, one camper mentioned the "loud frogs" noting that "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
What campers like
Peaceful water access: Tent campers appreciate the direct pond access available at several sites. According to a visitor at Spruce Pond, there are "three campsites with their own pond access," with tent spots both "nestled in the woods" and right alongside the water.
Hammock-friendly sites: Many tent areas feature mature trees perfect for hammock camping. One Spruce Pond camper noted that while "the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up" there are "great trees for hammock camping."
Trail connectivity: Nature Lover's Paradise offers access to an extensive trail network. A reviewer mentioned "the tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."
What you should know
Accessibility limitations: While some sites advertise accessibility features, they may be limited. At Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead, a camper explained that "while the developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible, note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground."
Permit requirements: Several primitive sites require advance permits. For Jackson Pond Tent Sites, "camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095; allow one week for permit to be processed."
Water planning: Most dispersed camping areas lack water sources. One visitor to Bear Wallow Pond explained it's "a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: For families with young children, choose sites closest to parking areas. At Spruce Pond, a camper advised that "the first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best here."
Group-friendly options: Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite offers a "beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
Short hike options: Some sites require minimal hiking, making them good for families with children. One visitor described Pharsalia Woods Lean-To as a "short twenty minute hike from trailhead, great for short local camping trips or through hikers on the Finger Lakes Trail."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Forest roads accessing tent and RV sites can deteriorate seasonally. A camper visiting Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed noted "the road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road."
Size limitations: Most sites accommodate only smaller rigs. For larger vehicles, Empire Haven offers big-rig friendly spaces with full hook-ups including water, electric, and sewer connections.
Alternative accommodations: Some campgrounds offer cabin options for those without tents or RVs. One Empire Haven visitor mentioned they've "camped in two rustic cabins over the years" and found "the campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like."
