Primitive camping options dot the state forests within a 20-mile radius of Blodgett Mills, New York. This rural Cortland County hamlet sits at approximately 1,150 feet elevation, surrounded by mixed hardwood forests and agricultural land. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, making spring through fall the optimal camping seasons for no-fee sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several dispersed camping areas provide fishing opportunities with varying catch potential. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, campers find "a clearing for tenting... adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond" where "shoreline wildflowers are riotous" in summer and "the changing leaves are breathtaking" in fall.
Hiking trail connections: The 580-mile Finger Lakes Trail passes through multiple state forests near Blodgett Mills. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers sites "from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail." Hikers can "bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring."
Mountain biking routes: State forest roads provide networks for off-road cycling. In Pharsalia Woods, dispersed campers can "go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge." The interconnected truck trails allow for rides of varying difficulty across multiple elevations.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Long Pond Campground, campers appreciate that "sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy" and that "camping spots are level and long enough for a very small trailer." Another reviewer noted sites have "plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site."
Accessibility from urban centers: Many dispersed sites are surprisingly close to towns. Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods is described as "a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!" This accessibility makes these sites perfect for weekend getaways without long drives.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The undeveloped nature of these camping areas attracts diverse wildlife. At Foster Pond Camping Area in Finger Lakes National Forest, campers find "free dispersed camping" around the lake with opportunities to spot local birds and mammals from camp.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal or no amenities. At Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, one camper noted "No show but decent bathrooms," while most other forests have no toilets. Long Pond Campground has "no water or garbage services" and "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Road conditions vary: Access roads to primitive sites may present challenges. One camper warned that Grover Brown Road in Pharsalia Woods "is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road." Another noted that "the whole road in is a tough ride."
Regulation compliance: Campers must follow state forest camping rules. Sites must be "150 feet from a stream or other body of water" and campers should "be prepared to pack out your own garbage." Remember that while most state forests allow dispersed camping, some areas like Labrador Hollow Unique Area prohibit overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Safe shoreline sites: Balsam Swamp State Forest offers campsites near water that work well for families. The pond "has a reputation as a good local fishing spot featuring trout, bass, and even tiger muskies" and the "newly built boat launch can accommodate trailers for easy access and also has a well built handicapped accessible fishing pier."
Educational opportunities: Several areas have interpretive elements. At Round Pond, "the parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem" and features "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook" perfect for teaching children about wetland habitats.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies dramatically between sites. At Long Pond, one camper reported "T-Mobile service has been exceptional" while others noted "no phone signal" in different areas. Families should check coverage maps before relying on mobile devices for safety.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate only small trailers or vans. Long Pond's "campsites are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" while Balsam Pond has "some sites meant for trailers and others with green space for tents."
Solar considerations: Dense forest canopy can limit solar charging capabilities. One RVer noted "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," suggesting campers should arrive with fully charged batteries or alternative power sources.
Water access planning: No running water exists at most sites. RVers should "come prepared with their own water" as facilities range from "no water source" to seasonal streams that require filtering. Tanks should be filled at nearby towns before arrival.
