Tent campers in the Chenango County area near Berkshire, New York have access to several primitive camping options within nearby state forests, ranging from free pond-side tent campsites to hike-in sites with lean-to shelters. Long Pond Campground offers free dispersed tent camping with sites situated along the shoreline of a fishing pond, while Pharsalia Woods State Forest and Morgan Hill State Forest provide hike-in tent sites with lean-to shelters. These areas maintain a rustic, undeveloped character typical of backcountry camping in the region's extensive woodlands.
Most primitive tent sites in the area lack developed amenities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient. Long Pond Campground includes several established sites with fire rings and a single portable toilet, but no drinking water or garbage service. According to one visitor, "Long Pond has large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy, with sites disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy." The state forest lean-to sites offer three-sided Adirondack-style shelters maintained by local volunteer hiking clubs, but campers must pack in all water and supplies. Permits are required for camping in Wildlife Management Areas like Pharsalia, which can be obtained from the regional DEC office.
Forest-based tent camping provides direct access to extensive trail networks including sections of the Finger Lakes Trail. Sites at Spruce Pond in Morgan Hill State Forest feature accessible fishing platforms alongside tent pads. A camper noted that "the setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond." Most primitive tent areas maintain a 14-day stay limit and follow "leave no trace" principles. Sites typically offer good shade coverage under mature trees, with several locations positioned near ponds or streams. During peak summer months, frogs and other wildlife create natural nighttime soundscapes around water-adjacent tent sites. Winter access becomes limited by snow conditions, making late spring through fall the optimal tent camping season.
"Aside from that this was a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock."
"All the roads are gravel, so it might get a little muddy after a big rain but I had no issue with a low clearance car driving around to explore the sites available."
from $45 - $175 / night
"Fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street. Overall one of our favorite stops on our New England trip."
from $53 - $65 / night
"Would definitely recommend if you appreciate privacy, nature, and a peaceful place with the freedom to relax and do your own thing."
Available this weekend
from $35 / night
"This is a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York."
"The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you."
"I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views. Don’t forget to look for the Peace sign."
"Toilet isn’t set up yet but will once the season opens. 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 do here."
"Campsite 5 was very overgrown, but site 6 had a nice flat area of pine needles with a path to the road once you see it. However, I couldn't locate the fire ring for site 6."
"Beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
TravelerSpent a peaceful night car camping in site 151. Beautiful trees, nice shower houses, quiet neighbors. Just a beautiful and very affordable - $32 - stay. We’ll be back whenever we pass this way.
TravelerStopped for one night while traveling upstate and usually dispersed camping but it was getting late so we stopped in.
ScoutThis clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
GuideThis was a great camping trip! We had site 29, nice spot with the North Rim trail right behind our site. Trails are beautiful. Restroom and shower close. You do need to be careful, lots of oaks trees and falling acorns! Easily dings you car hood, watch where you park. Close to down town for a visit to the awesome farmers market in Ithaca.
GuideNice small campground with only 9 sites. FF self pay station allows QR Code to recreation.gov to reserve online. Once you choose a site, just pay online and keep your cash tipping at the close by wineries!😉 The park is a bit neglected compared to the many other National Forrest we stay in. The potholes in the driving loop and gravel need repair. The Fire pits and pit toilets need attention. Overall, it has been quiet and convenient to the region around. We stayed 4 days so even the negatives were not a deterrent.
TravelerThis site was awesome. Still semi private and there were bathrooms which weren’t bad at all! Only draw back is you’re kind of close to other campers meaning you can hear them too. If you’re in for a more social dispersed experience this is it! I just prefer to have no one around for miles!
TravelerIn short it was perfect! This is a small family pet friendly campground. There is a pond that you can kayak and c&r fishing, just no swimming, there is snapping turtles! There is some handmade items in the office to purchase, also some camping needs, fire starters and firewood (6 dollars a bundle). There is a bath house, though we didn't use it so I can't tell you anything about it. There is also a trail but we didn't get to check it out. The owners can be seen here and there all over the property keeping it looking beautiful! It is clear just by watching them how much care they put into making this a great time to all that come there. On the weekends they offer meals that can be brought right to your site. We were there from Saturday till Wednesday morning and it was very peaceful. This is definitely be a place we will come back to. The only downfall to the place is that it has placed a high bar for other campgrounds to compare!
GuideReally liked it. Love the layout, with camp sites having mowed paths to the restrooms and showers in the middle of each loop. Nicest showers and rest rooms we have seen so far. Each site has brush between them so you can not see your neighbors. Pretty, quiet, relaxing. The groomed hiking trails are the best and Arctic Lake is beautiful. Staff were so nice, and loved doing the scavenger hunt!
ScoutTerrible service/wifi in spot 1. Numerous open campsites yet we were pushed right next to dump station. And im talking half this campground is empty.
Berkshire's forested public lands offer multiple options for primitive camping within the region's rolling hills at elevations from 800-1,500 feet. The area receives moderate rainfall through summer and early fall with daytime temperatures averaging 70-80°F June through August. Several state forests in Chenango County maintain seasonal access roads open May through October for tent campers seeking no-fee or low-cost sites.
Fishing from accessible platforms: At Spruce Pond Camping Area in Morgan Hill State Forest, one campsite features a handicapped accessible fishing platform with easy access from the parking area. According to Janet R., "There are fire grills and nicely developed tent sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access, and one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing."
Hike to scenic overlooks: From Spruce Pond Camping Area, trails connect to the Labrador Hollow overlook. "You can also easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch, you might see some in action or at least get an amazing view of the Labrador Valley," notes one reviewer.
Overnight on the Finger Lakes Trail: The Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite offers a well-maintained group site with a traditional shelter. "Short twenty minute hike from trailhead, great for short local camping trips or through hikers on the Finger Lakes Trail," reports Janet R., adding that there's "a perennial spring nearby, but campers should be prepared to filter or treat their water."
Secluded stream-side camping: The Ludlow Creek Lean-To provides a wilderness experience with easy access. One camper describes it as "a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York... perched on a heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek."
Level sites with shade coverage: At Long Pond Campground, the tent sites provide ample room under tree canopy. Kevin C. notes, "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
No-cost camping options: Several public land sites require no fees. Katelyn H. reports about Long Pond Campground, "I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
Wildlife sounds: Nighttime can be noisy near water. At Morgan Hill, one camper mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites lack basic amenities. Kevin C. writes about Long Pond, "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers... Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Security concerns: Some roadside sites experience issues with non-campers. Janet R. observed at Belden Hill Campgrounds, "Some of the campsites closest to the road had evidence of driveby garbage dumpers who popped in and dumped household garbage right in a couple of the campsites."
Choose established sites: For families with children, the developed sites offer better security and facilities. Tim W. reports of Belden Hill, "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts."
Pack power banks: Cell service varies throughout the region. Kevin C. notes, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," while another camper mentions, "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well."
Consider seasonal timing: The best tent camping near Berkshire happens mid-summer when water levels are appropriate. Neil L. mentions, "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens," indicating early season limitations at some sites.
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites can't accommodate larger rigs. At Long Pond, one camper specifies, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Limited hookups: The Upper Lisle Park and most dispersed sites have no services for RVs. Paully B. states bluntly, "Other than a nice place to launch the kayak in the upper river and into Dorchester lake. There is nothing here."
Seasonal RV options: For full-service camping near Berkshire, some private campgrounds operate seasonally. Jennifer K. mentions one nearby campground has "Full hook ups and wifi but wifi wasn't working too well. Good enough for web surfing on phone but no streaming on TV. Great at&t service."
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Berkshire, NY is Long Pond Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 5 reviews.
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