Primitive camping opportunities surround the Brookfield area in central New York State. These rustic camping options sit within state-managed lands at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating varied terrain for outdoor recreation. Most sites lack developed facilities and require campers to bring all necessary supplies including water, as natural sources may be seasonal or require treatment.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: North Lake Reservoir provides excellent fishing access with 32 dispersed sites positioned around the water. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean," notes one North Lake Reservoir Campground visitor.
Waterfront activities: Stillwater Reservoir offers swimming and paddling alongside primitive camping. "Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees," shares a Stillwater Reservoir camper. The reservoir creates numerous secluded coves and beaches.
Hiking access: Primitive sites at Morgan Hill State Forest serve as gateways to the trail network. "This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail," explains a visitor to Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Bucks Brook State Forest offers truly remote camping experiences. "Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike in the area," reports a Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site visitor.
Roadside convenience: Many areas provide simple pull-off camping without long hikes. "Nice place to sleep. Good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road," states a Towsley Road Dispersed Camping user about this accessible option.
Wildlife viewing: The remote nature of these sites creates wildlife opportunities. "We saw Bald Eagles and Loons, enjoyed swimming, canoing and paddleboarding with the family," shares a Stillwater Reservoir camper about their wildlife encounters.
What you should know
Site identification: Finding designated camping areas requires attention to markers. "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp," notes a Winona State Forest visitor about locating sites.
Water requirements: No potable water exists at most sites. "You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage," explains a Morgan Hill State Forest camper.
Cell service limitations: Most areas have minimal or no connectivity. "There is zero Verizon cell service in the whole area. So plan accordingly," warns a Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water toys: Stillwater Reservoir's beach areas provide natural playgrounds. "It was so peaceful with our site #37 accomodating 20 members of the family plus 3 dogs!" shares a family group who enjoyed the shoreline.
Choose accessible sites: Some locations offer easier access for children. "Site 4 is magical, it is road side, but the view, and access to the river is great. There is a path right from the site," notes a visitor to Powley Road.
Plan for weather changes: The elevation can create variable conditions. "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake," explains a North Lake visitor who experienced the area's changing conditions.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Few rustic camping areas near Brookfield accommodate larger vehicles. "Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods," notes a Powley Road camper about the road conditions.
Road conditions: Forest roads may have seasonal limitations. "The road is in good condition," reports a fall visitor, though spring access often becomes more challenging after winter weather.
Site selection: When bringing an RV, arrive early to secure appropriate sites. "When you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road," advises a Towsley Road visitor about finding suitable parking.
