State forests surrounding Blodgett Mills, New York offer primitive tent camping sites ranging from roadside access points to deep backcountry locations. The area sits within the Finger Lakes region, characterized by rolling hills, small ponds, and mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, while summer highs typically range from 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Numerous ponds throughout the area provide accessible fishing spots for campers. At Long Pond Campground, anglers can access the water from "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" according to Janet R., who notes the lake is "very scenic and very productive for fishermen."
Hiking trails network: Morgan Hill State Forest connects to extensive trail systems including the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Janet R. mentions, "Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring!"
Paddling experiences: Several ponds allow non-motorized boats. Spruce Pond Camping Area features easy water access where "you can easily paddle or fish on the pond" according to Janet R. Neil L. adds that "lots of fisherman frequent the pond" making it a social activity for campers with similar interests.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers mention the quiet environment as a major benefit of tent camping near Blodgett Mills. At Long Pond Campground, Katelyn H. writes, "Beautiful views, quiet, no insect issues so far, and if I had a rod and reel I wouldn't need to worry for food at all." Kevin C. similarly described it as "quiet and secluded."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Jackson Pond Tent Sites offers a "quiet, peaceful wooded location perfect for individual or group tenting" that's great for "hiking, fishing, wildlife watching" according to Janet R. At Spruce Pond, Rose S. noted the interesting nighttime experience: "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Well-spaced campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy and spacing between sites. At Long Pond, Kevin C. observed that "campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer" and "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."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some camping areas require advance planning. The Pharsalia Y Pond primitive campsite requires permits, with Janet R. explaining: "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area campsite is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095, or email at Info.R7@dec.ny.gov; allow one week for permit to be processed."
Limited amenities: Most sites have minimal facilities. At Long Pond Campground, Kevin C. noted: "There is no water or garbage services at this site" and would "rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster." Similarly, Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead campground has "NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground."
Access challenges: Some sites have entry issues. At Long Pond, Janet R. observed that campsites 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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with nearby activities: Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite offers a "beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided" according to Janet R., making it ideal for family groups with different outdoor interests.
Consider accessibility needs: Some campgrounds provide ADA features. Janet R. noted that at Spruce Pond Camping Area, "one [site] is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot. There is a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway as well."
Plan for water and waste: With limited facilities, preparation is essential. At Upper Lisle Park, Paully B. observed there's "really nothing here" beyond "a nice place to launch the kayak in the upper river and into Dorchester lake," meaning families must bring all necessary supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most forest campsites accommodate small rigs only. At Long Pond Campground, Kevin C. wrote, "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" and "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," highlighting potential power issues for RV campers.
Consider accessibility: Nature Lover's Paradise is tent-only with no RV access, but Jake C. notes it has "an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York," making it worth considering if you're traveling with both an RV and tent equipment.
