Dispersed camping opportunities near Burlington Flats, New York include multiple designated primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the rolling hills of central New York, with winter temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. Local state forests contain over 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and cross-country skiing.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on Long Pond: Located about 35 minutes southwest of Burlington Flats, Long Pond Campground offers multiple access points for water activities. "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," notes camper Katelyn H. The pond features three different fishing access points, including a dedicated accessible fishing pier.
Cross-country skiing: Winter recreation options expand beyond Whaupaunaucau State Forest. Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site provides terrain suitable for winter sports. "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 on in the area," explains Janet R.
Wildlife observation: The diverse ecosystems near Burlington Flats support abundant wildlife viewing. The Round Pond area in Pharsalia Woods offers "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," according to a visitor to Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed.
What campers like
Secluded pond access: Many campers appreciate the quiet water access at free camping spots near Burlington Flats. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, "the site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond... I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking."
Privacy between sites: Despite being primitive, many camping areas offer good site separation. At Long Pond Campground, "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," reports Kevin C.
Unique ecosystems: The varied terrain creates distinct natural environments. Whaupaunaucau State Forest contains "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see."
What you should know
Variable road access: Roads to dispersed camping areas often require careful navigation. At Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road... the whole road in is a tough ride, it is posted extensively en route that you are passing private property with no trespassing allowed until you see the DEC sign announcing the border of the state forest."
Limited amenities: Most free camping near Burlington Flats lacks facilities. At Long Pond, one camper noted: "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster." Another mentioned "There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a 'leave no trace' situation."
Seasonal variations: Site conditions change dramatically throughout the year. Betty Brook Camp remains accessible year-round, with one local noting they "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible outdoor education: Families with children can benefit from ecological learning opportunities at Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods. "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem. You need to sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees."
Level tent sites: When camping with children, flat areas make setup easier. At Betty Brook Camp, "There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store... the site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Fishing docks for families: Dedicated fishing structures make water activities safer with children. Long Pond offers "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."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access only: Most dispersed camping near Burlington Flats accommodates only compact campers. At Long Pond, campsites are "level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Limited solar capacity: Heavy forest cover affects power generation. One RVer at Long Pond noted: "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel. Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
Overnight alternatives: For RVers needing more services, consider areas like Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, where "The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by... There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."
