Charles E. Baker State Forest offers primitive camping sites with access via dirt roads suitable for moderate clearance vehicles. Located near Barneveld in central New York's Oneida County, the state forest sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with typical seasonal temperature variations from below freezing winters to 80°F summer days. The forest features multiple trail systems through mixed hardwood forest with scattered pine stands, creating a natural camping environment connected to several small bodies of water.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Visitors to Limekiln Lake Campground can enjoy water activities on a clear, clean lake. "The lake is beautiful and clear and a very nice temperature for dunking in. There's a lot to explore out on the kayaks," notes Lena L., who recommends renting from the campground's reasonable self-service system.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes nighttime viewing exceptional. "We would've loved to bring the kayaks out at night to look at the stars," says Lena L. about Limekiln Lake, while another camper mentions walking "down to the boat launch at night to look at the stars (and the Milky Way!)."
Technical hiking: The Murphy-Bennett Trails near Murphy Lake Leanto offer challenging terrain for experienced hikers. Tony F. describes it as "a technical challenge to hike, or bike in on. And be prepared to go over downfalls... passing through rocky, rooted terrain and pine tree barrens."
What campers like
Peace and seclusion: The area provides quiet camping options away from crowds. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, Matt A. found "no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods," making it ideal for those seeking solitude without formal facilities.
Lake access: Water-adjacent sites are particularly valued. At Limekiln Lake, Kim M. states, "If you're lucky enough to get a water site it's even better," while Murat H. specifically "picked campsite 005... a spot next to the water so I could land our kayaks and canoes at the campsite."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for animal sightings. Anna G. from Limekiln Lake "rented a canoe for the day and found a patch of carnivorous plants and got up close with several birds on the water," while others mention occasional bear activity managed by attentive rangers.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bears are present in the region, requiring proper food storage. Kevin C. from Limekiln Lake Campground notes, "There is a minor bear problem but they didn't do much besides sniff around. Rangers were always right on top of things when one would wonder around and sure to chance them off."
Seasonal insects: Campers should prepare for biting insects during certain months. "The flies and gnats were kind of bad, but we had a screen room to keep them at bay," reports Anna G., while Theresa D. warns, "Black flies are brutal in end of May beginning of June."
Limited facilities: Many camping areas near Barneveld lack modern amenities. Cameron from Charles E. Baker State Forest mentions "no toilets" and notes that "the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets," suggesting visitors come prepared for primitive conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly areas: Several campgrounds offer safe cycling for children. At Limekiln Lake, Jynee Z. reports, "Really nice park kids got to ride their bikes everywhere with minimal traffic," making it suitable for families wanting to explore on wheels.
Beach activities: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers family-friendly water recreation. Jen O., a full-time traveling family with kids ages 8 and 13, found the park "beautiful and easy to get in and out of," noting "the sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between."
Playground access: Certain campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. April L. mentions The Villages offers "a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals," providing multiple activity options to keep children entertained throughout their stay.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For those requiring RV amenities, select campgrounds offer complete services. Boomer B. notes The Villages at Turning Stone RV Park provides "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," while Carl G. mentions "All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade."
Site spacing considerations: RV campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at certain campgrounds. Frank M. found The Villages "well maintained and pleasantly arranged spaces. There were a lot of campers set up when we were there but we never felt crowded," offering privacy despite the developed setting.
Accessibility factors: Road conditions affect RV access to horse campgrounds near Barneveld, New York. While The Villages accommodates large rigs with paved spots for 34-foot class A vehicles, Murphy Lake and more remote equestrian trails require alternative transportation as Tony F. notes the terrain "has to be earned on foot, bike or other."
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