Tent campsites near Caroline, New York range from free primitive sites to established camping areas with basic amenities. The region sits within the Finger Lakes uplands, with elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Most sites require self-sufficient camping with personal water supplies, as natural water sources may be seasonal depending on rainfall amounts.
What to do
Paddle on Spruce Pond: Spruce Pond Camping Area offers multiple primitive sites with pond access. "The setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond. You can also easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch," notes camper Janet R.
Explore hiking networks: The Nature Lover's Paradise campsite connects to 70 acres of hiking trails. According to Jake C., it has "an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York."
Fish from accessible platforms: Several campgrounds include accessible fishing options. At Long Pond Campground, "there are three accesses for fishing: 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," according to Janet R.
Access the North Country Trail: The Onondaga Trail section connects directly to campsites. "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," states a reviewer.
What campers like
Privacy levels: The Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead campground gets high marks for solitude. Janet R. notes this location is "peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers."
Self-sufficiency opportunities: Many campers appreciate the independence of primitive camping. At Long Pond, Katelyn H. reports: "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."
Level sites for tents: Long Pond Campground offers practical tent setups. Kevin C. observes, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Wildlife activity: Nature sounds enhance the experience for some campers. At Spruce Pond, Rose S. mentions, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
What you should know
Outhouse availability varies: Facilities change seasonally at primitive sites. Neil L. notes about Spruce Pond, "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens."
Security considerations: Some camping areas have vulnerability issues. At Long Pond, Janet R. observes, "The other campsites nearby are not located in a distinct campground, but are strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lack of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in off the highway."
Water requirements: Bring all drinking water to most sites. At Ludlow Creek Lean-To, Janet R. advises, "If camping here, be sure to pack in water and plan to pack out garbage and leave no trace."
Cell service varies: Some areas have surprisingly good coverage. Katelyn H. mentions about Long Pond, "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well."
Tips for camping with families
Consider smaller tents: Site size varies at primitive campgrounds. Neil L. advises about Spruce Pond, "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."
Check accessibility options: Some sites accommodate wheelchairs. Janet R. notes that at Spruce Pond Camping Area, "one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot. There is a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway as well."
Try hammock camping: Tree coverage provides alternative sleeping options. Neil L. suggests at Spruce Pond, "Great trees for hammock camping though."
Bring firewood: Sites typically provide fire rings but not wood. Kevin C. observed at Long Pond, "Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive campsites only accommodate small trailers or RVs. Kevin C. states about Long Pond, "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Consider established campgrounds for larger RVs: Belden Hill Campgrounds better serves RV campers. "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games," reports Tim W., who stayed in a 38-foot motorhome.
Limited hookups at primitive sites: For RVers seeking dispersed camping, be prepared for dry camping. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond, "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Expect rustic access roads: Forest service roads may limit larger vehicles. One camper notes, "The campground was easy to locate and the road was in good shape," but conditions vary by season and location.
