Tent camping near Aurora, New York offers several dispersed camping options in state forests and public lands within a 30-mile radius. Campers can access primitive sites with varying levels of development, from basic clearings to spots with established fire rings and occasional pit toilets. The region's topography includes rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet, contributing to cooler nighttime temperatures even during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Long Pond Campground, anglers have multiple access points for catching fish. "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there 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 one camper.
Hiking on established trails: Tent campers seeking physical activity can access dedicated hiking paths at Nature Lover's Paradise, which features "70 acres of hiking trails" according to visitors. The campground provides an ideal base for day hikes through the varied terrain.
Paddling on calm waters: Several area campgrounds offer pond or lake access for paddling. One camper at Long Pond mentioned that people "have driven in to fish and kayak" making it easy to launch small watercraft directly from campsites positioned along the shoreline.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many tent campers appreciate the separation between sites. At Long Pond, reviewers note that "campsites are large and shaded and well spaced from each other and close to the pond," providing privacy despite being accessible from nearby roads.
Natural surroundings: Spruce Pond Camping Area receives praise for its natural setting. One reviewer describes it as having "an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails along with mountain biking along the forest roads." The same camper notes that "the setting is scenic and peaceful."
Accessible options: Some camping areas have specifically designed sites for those with mobility challenges. In Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead campground, campers find "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."
What you should know
Facility limitations: Most primitive camping areas have minimal amenities. A reviewer at Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead notes "there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, e.g., no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground." Campers should plan accordingly.
Variable campsite quality: Not all sites in a campground are created equal. At Spruce Pond, one visitor observed 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."
Wildlife activity: Expect active wildlife, especially near water. A Spruce Pond camper reported, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Tips for camping with families
Security considerations: Choose campsites carefully, especially with children. At Long Pond, one reviewer cautioned that sites "are strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lack of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in off the highway."
Alternative accommodations: Families wanting more amenities can consider Holiday Hill Campground where "there is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Bring all essentials: With limited facilities, families must pack thoroughly. As one Long Pond camper points out, "There is no water or garbage services at this site," and another adds that the location has "no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most primitive sites accommodate only small rigs. At Long Pond, a visitor reported, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Hook-up availability: For those needing electrical connections, Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort offers full hookups, though campers should note that "almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach."
Speed restrictions: RV campers with families appreciate campgrounds with enforced driving rules. One Twilight on the Erie visitor mentioned, "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area."
