Tent camping near Camillus, New York offers several primitive camping options in state forests and wildlife management areas within a 25-mile radius. The region features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 500-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during day with cooler 50-65°F nights, making spring through fall the prime camping season for Camillus area primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds provides direct water access with multiple spots for fishing and swimming. According to camper Sara H., "We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun," making this location ideal for water-focused camping trips.
Explore hiking networks: Nature Lover's Paradise offers tent campers 70 acres of hiking trails. One reviewer noted, "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Several pond-side camping locations provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. The sites at Long Pond Campground offer excellent wildlife viewing, where campers can fish from shore or use the handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Spruce Pond Camping Area offers ten established primitive sites with varying levels of privacy. A camper noted, "The first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best do here."
Waterfront access: Campers appreciate the direct pond access at multiple locations. At Long Pond Campground, one reviewer mentioned they "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."
Free camping options: Several state forest campgrounds in the Camillus region are free of charge. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers free primitive camping with "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas around Camillus require self-sufficiency. At Long Pond, one camper explained, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," which is common for many primitive sites in the area.
Permit requirements: Some locations require camping permits. At 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...allow one week for permit to be processed."
Seasonal conditions: Weather patterns affect campsite conditions throughout the year. At Long Pond Campground, one reviewer noted, "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," highlighting the dense summer tree coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with multiple activities: Family camping works best at locations with varied recreation options. Long Pond Campground provides "camp sites are level and long enough for a very small trailer" and direct access to fishing opportunities.
Consider noise levels: Wildlife sounds can be surprisingly loud at some tent sites near Camillus. At Spruce Pond, campers should be prepared for active wildlife, particularly around the water.
Accessibility considerations: Hall Island State Forest offers camping options with varying accessibility. One camper reported, "There were fire ring set up a view of the water and for enable body person just a short walk up the path."
Tips from RVers
Small RV limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Camillus have space constraints. At Long Pond Campground, a reviewer advised, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Alternative facilities: When tent camping or RVing at primitive sites, know where to find facilities. One camper at Hall Island State Forest mentioned, "It's a short drive into town and to the local convenience store, which 'conveniently' enough, offers shower facilities and bathrooms for a fee."
Access road conditions: Forest roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Most tent camping sites around Camillus are accessible via unpaved state forest roads that may be difficult for larger RVs, particularly after wet weather.
