Best Tent Camping near Cayuga, NY

State forests surrounding Cayuga, New York offer several primitive tent camping options with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Morgan Hill State Forest provides both walk-in and drive-up tent campsites at two key locations: the Onondaga Trailhead campground and Spruce Pond Camping Area. Cross Lake Park Campgrounds in nearby Cato offers established tent sites with water access, while Nature Lover's Paradise provides dedicated walk-in tent sites with access to extensive trail networks. The PineApple Farm also accommodates tent campers with basic amenities including drinking water and toilet facilities.

Tent camping surfaces vary considerably across these locations, with most sites featuring natural terrain that may include forest duff, grass clearings, or compacted dirt. Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead campground offers cleared grassy areas adjacent to the parking circle as well as developed sites with cement pads, picnic tables, and fire pits. Campers should bring their own water as most primitive tent campgrounds lack potable water sources. At Spruce Pond, the first few campsites are considered best for tent setup, with sites farther from the entrance becoming less suitable for larger tents. Seasonal considerations include temporary toilet facilities that may only be available during peak season and active wildlife, particularly around pond areas.

Tent-only sites in these areas provide distinct advantages for campers seeking natural settings. According to reviews, Morgan Hill Forest offers "peaceful and quiet" camping with "mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers." One visitor noted that Spruce Pond features "nicely developed tent sites" with some nestled in the woods and others offering pond access. The primitive tent camping experience often includes access to hiking trails, with Morgan Hill providing direct access to the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country Scenic Trail. Campers at Cross Lake Park appreciate water recreation opportunities, with one visitor noting they "kayaked in the lake" and found it "a lot of fun." For backcountry tent camping enthusiasts, these locations offer a balance of accessibility and natural immersion.

Best Tent Sites Near Cayuga, New York (11)

    1. Cross Lake Park Campgrounds

    1 Review
    Cato, NY
    20 miles
    +1 (315) 626-4048

    "Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."

    2. The PineApple Farm

    1 Review
    Newark, NY
    24 miles

    $109 - $150 / night

    "We're happy to welcome this new property to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave some love!"

    3. Empire Haven Nudist Park

    1 Review
    Moravia, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 497-0135

    "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you."

    4. Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Macedon, NY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 986-7337

    "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends. We stayed here during our home renovations and fell in love with the place."

    "Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and near by."

    5. Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Apulia Station, NY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "Toilet isn’t set up yet but will once the season opens.

    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."

    "Although dispersed primitive camping is allowed elsewhere throughout the state forest, this is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available"

    6. Lakeshore Grocery & Otisco Lake Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Marietta, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 636-9925

    $35 - $139 / night

    7. Nature Lover's Paradise

    3 Reviews
    Fabius, NY
    40 miles
    +1 (561) 503-9444

    $79 - $149 / night

    "Nature Lover's Paradise is new to the Dyrt and they have an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York. "

    "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."

    8. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    1 Review
    Truxton, NY
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right **next **"

    9. Holiday Hill Campground

    2 Reviews
    Dansville, NY
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 669-2600

    "Lots of trails, and Hemlock and Canadice Lake so close by. Mostly known for Reynolds GUlly, and Johnson Hill trails! Tons to do in the area but town isn't too far."

    10. Camp Earth Connection

    Be the first to review!
    Harford, NY
    41 miles
    Website

    $45 - $125 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Cayuga, NY

516 Reviews of 11 Cayuga Campgrounds



Guide to Cayuga

Cayuga, New York, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With beautiful landscapes and well-maintained facilities, these campgrounds provide an ideal escape for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Campers at Cross Lake Park Campgrounds can take advantage of swimming and kayaking in the nearby lake, providing a fun way to cool off during hot summer days.
  • Empire Haven Nudist Park offers a unique experience with opportunities for socializing and enjoying nature in a welcoming environment.
  • At Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, families can participate in live music events and various activities, making it a lively spot for tent campers.

Tent campers should check out the stunning surroundings

  • The picturesque setting of Catbird Hill provides breathtaking views, perfect for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.
  • Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground is a great starting point for hiking the Onondaga Trail, offering access to scenic trails and natural wonders.
  • The PineApple Farm is a charming spot that allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of the countryside while being close to local attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cayuga, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cayuga, NY is Cross Lake Park Campgrounds with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Cayuga, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Cayuga, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.