Primitive tent camping near Burlington Flats, New York occurs primarily on public lands within the central New York region. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with undulating terrain of mixed hardwood forests. Most dispersed camping locations require navigation on unpaved forest roads that can become challenging in wet conditions. Winter camping opportunities exist but access becomes limited during snow seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Pharsalia Woods State Forest area contains multiple ponds for fishing, including Bear Wallow Pond, where campers can fish in a "really beautiful pond" with "shoreline wildflowers" in summer, according to reviewer Janet R. The pond is stocked with brook trout.
Hiking options: The Pharsalia Y Pond campsite connects to extensive trail networks. As Janet R. notes, "You can also walk or drive along various state forest roads to several other ponds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching."
Mountain biking: Forest roads throughout the region provide mountain biking opportunities on moderate terrain. At Bear Wallow Pond, campers can "go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge," making it suitable for day trips or weekend adventures.
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Tent camping in Burlington Flats offers notable solitude, especially at Charles E. Baker State Forest where camper Matt A. found "no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods" and noted the "beautiful forest with miles of trails."
Free camping: Most dispersed sites in the region have no fees. Cameron's experience at Charles E. Baker confirms this value: "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby."
Seasonal variety: The region transforms dramatically through the seasons. At Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite, visitors benefit from a "beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
What you should know
Water requirements: No potable water exists at most sites, requiring filtration. As Janet R. notes about Pharsalia Woods Lean-To, "There is a perennial spring nearby, but campers should be prepared to filter or treat their water."
Road conditions: Forest access roads deteriorate in wet weather. The Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed access presents challenges as "the road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road."
Permit requirements: Some sites require permits despite being free. For Pharsalia Y Pond, "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."
Site availability: Designated sites may fill quickly on weekends. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, one camper found "only one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: For families, look to sites with basic amenities. E16 Canal Lock provides designated spots where "The Canal Corporation provides designated spots for tent and van camping along the canal. Stays are limited to a maximum of 48 hours."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Ponds offer excellent wildlife viewing for children. Pharsalia Y Pond is described as "deep and clear and stocked with brook trout" with "a cascade into a gorge which is the beginnings of Canasawacta Creek," making it "a nice family friendly weekend destination."
Access considerations: Consider walk-in distance when bringing children. Bear Wallow Pond offers easier access as "the site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond," minimizing hiking distance with gear and children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large rigs. At Charles E. Baker, the access is "at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road" but has limited turning radius for larger vehicles.
Alternative RV options: For RVers wanting more amenities, consider developed campgrounds farther from Burlington Flats. Small RVs can access some areas, but as noted at E16 Canal Lock, "RVs and travel trailers are not permitted" at many primitive sites in the region.
