Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the wooded lands surrounding Brooktondale, New York, where elevation ranges from 850 to 2,000 feet across the region's rolling hills and valleys. The area features a mix of state forests with primitive campsites that typically receive less traffic than commercial campgrounds, especially during weekdays. Winter camping is possible but requires additional preparation as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking network access: Morgan Hill State Forest offers direct access to the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country Scenic Trail from its trailhead campground. "You can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. 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," notes Janet R. about Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground.
Fishing opportunities: Most primitive camping areas near Brooktondale include fishing access, with some sites positioned directly on ponds. "Lots of fisherman frequent the pond. The first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up," explains Neil L. about Spruce Pond Camping Area.
Kayaking and water access: Several tent camping locations provide water access for non-motorized boats. "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery," shares a camper at Long Pond Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most campers appreciate the spacing between primitive sites in the state forests. "This location is peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers, and would be an ideal setting for a group campout," writes Janet R. about the Morgan Hill Forest campsites.
Wildlife viewing: The ponds and forests create habitat for diverse wildlife. "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," mentions Rose S. about her experience at Spruce Pond.
Cost-free camping options: Many of the best tent camping near Brooktondale, New York comes without fees. "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," notes Katelyn H. about Long Pond Campground.
What you should know
Toilet facilities vary: Many primitive sites have minimal or no bathroom facilities. "Note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, e.g., no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground. While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the Onondaga Trail to access a pit toilet," explains Janet R. about Morgan Hill Forest campsites.
Bring your own water: Most primitive camping areas near Brooktondale lack potable water. "Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster," notes Kevin C. about Long Pond.
Cell service varies by location: Coverage depends on your carrier and the specific campground. "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well," reports a tent camper at Long Pond, while another notes, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
Security concerns exist: Some roadside camping areas experience issues with non-campers. "The parking area at this campsite seems to be a major party spot as beer cans were thrown all over and even in the water. It was sad to see this," reports Janet R. about Long Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options: For families with young children, lean-to structures provide shelter security. "This is a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York. There is a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on a heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek," describes Janet R. about Ludlow Creek Lean-To.
Short hike-in options: Some sites require minimal walking distance. "The hike in from the trailhead to the north is relatively short, and recommended for easy overnight access," notes a review about Ludlow Creek.
Consider accessible sites: Several areas offer designated accessible campsites. "In addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible," explains Janet R. about Morgan Hill Forest.
Tips from RVers
Small rigs only: Many primitive camping areas can accommodate very small trailers but not larger RVs. "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," notes Kevin C. about Long Pond Campground.
Commercial alternatives: For those needing hookups, established RV campgrounds are available in the wider region. "Very accommodating... 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," shares Jennifer K. about Belden Hill Campgrounds.
