Tent camping near Cato, New York offers outdoor enthusiasts access to several state forests within a 30-mile radius. The region features a mix of flat farmland and rolling hills with elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons bring cooler temperatures with occasional frost.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hall Island State Forest, campers can access the Salmon River Reservoir for various fishing experiences. One visitor noted, "This site is one of a handful of primitive sites abutting the Salmon River Reservoir in Redfield, NY. All sites are first come, first serve, and free of charge."
Trail exploration: The Morgan Hill State Forest provides extensive hiking networks from several campgrounds. A camper at Spruce Pond Camping Area shared, "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, you might see some in action or at least get an amazing view of the Labrador Valley!"
Wildlife observation: Night sounds create a natural soundtrack at forest campsites. A camper at Spruce Pond mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
What campers like
Peaceful water access: Multiple tent sites in the region offer direct water access for swimming and paddling. A visitor to Cross Lake Park Campgrounds reported, "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Seasonal fishing: The region is known for salmon fishing opportunities in fall. At Stoneys Pineville Campground, a visitor shared, "We have been out three years consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time what a great place to stay."
Private hiking access: Some campgrounds offer exclusive trail networks. A camper at Nature Lover's Paradise appreciated "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."
What you should know
Toilet availability varies: Many primitive sites lack facilities completely. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, a camper noted, "You would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the Onondaga Trail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil, so you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water."
Seasonal considerations: Tent camping in spring requires preparation for varied conditions. A visitor to Hall Island State Forest reported, "I checked out primitive site on my own early in April it was cold snowing and raining. It didn't take away from the campsite at all though."
Navigation challenges: Forest roads may lack clear signage. One camper advised about Morgan Hill Forest, "You are on your own and should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked."
Tips for camping with families
Safety measures: Some campgrounds enforce slow speed limits to protect children. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, a camper mentioned, "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff."
Accessibility options: Some forest sites offer partially accessible features. At Morgan Hill Forest, "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."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds organize regular family events. A visitor to Red's Twilight noted, "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Even RV-friendly sites may require extra equipment. A camper at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort shared, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Supply access: Some campgrounds provide convenience stores on-site or nearby. Red's Twilight offers "Full hook ups and seasonal sites available" with a store supervised by staff.
Local farm stands: Fresh produce is available seasonally near campgrounds. One visitor to Morgan Hill Forest mentioned it's "adjacent to a very nice farm stand that is a good stop for supplies."
