Primitive camping near Aurora, New York offers rustic experiences throughout the Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,100 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. State forests in this region typically require campsites to be at least 150 feet from water bodies, with most locations remaining accessible from May through October.
What to do
Hiking on interconnected trails: Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping provides access to several trail networks. "You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp. There are hiking trails right out of the site!" shares Karen M.
Horseback riding opportunities: The trails at Sugar Hill accommodate equestrians with dedicated facilities. "People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp," notes Hannah G. Another visitor mentioned, "The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence."
Fishing at multiple ponds: Long Pond Campground offers excellent fishing access with multiple entry points. As Katelyn H. describes, "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."
What campers like
Uncrowded weekday camping: Many dispersed sites remain available during weekdays even in peak season. At Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, one camper noted, "Stopped in to 'ride out a rain storm.' After surviving the night, we discovered all the amenities. Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night."
Spacious, well-separated sites: Dispersed camping areas provide good separation between campers. According to Paulina B., the campsite "offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. For those seeking more privacy, there are numerous secluded spots along the side roads throughout the park."
Accessible camping options: Some sites accommodate those with mobility needs. "26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren't on top of each other," reports Hannah G. about Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically across sites. At Sugar Hill, Paulina B. reports, "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars." Meanwhile, Katelyn H. found that at Finger Lakes National Forest, "T-Mobile service has been exceptional."
Challenging access roads: Some forest roads require vehicles with good clearance. Sarah M. warns about Finger Lakes National Forest, "The road in (a loop) is steep on both sides (a truck or vehicle with clearance would be helpful but you could also park at the bottom if you needed to)."
Variable amenities: Facilities differ significantly between sites. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond Campground, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," while Joel M. mentions Sugar Hill has "a toilet house."
Tips for camping with families
Download trail maps beforehand: Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed has extensive but potentially confusing trail networks. "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," advises Janet R.
Consider insect protection: Ticks are common in the region, particularly in spring and early summer. In Morgan Hill State Forest, "be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer."
Look for sites with facilities: Some free sites offer surprisingly good amenities. At Sugar Hill, Joel M. found, "This campground is basically a big field surrounded by the forest. The sites are really nice, each one has a table with benches and a fire place. You can drive your car in here (gravel road). It has a toilet house."
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths before arriving: South Slope Trail Head Dispersed Camp has limited space for larger vehicles. "There is one campsite near trail. There was more traffic than I expected. Also there is no cell service," reports Bare Soul W.
Small trailers only at some locations: Long Pond accommodates only compact trailers. Kevin C. notes, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Limited hookup options: Bring self-contained systems as no hookups exist at most sites. "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," according to Kevin C. who also mentioned, "Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
