Best Dispersed Camping near Cazenovia, NY
Morgan Hill State Forest offers several free dispersed camping options within 15 miles of Cazenovia. The forest features two distinct areas: the main forest dispersed sites accessed via hiking trails, and the Onondaga Trailhead campground with designated primitive sites. According to one visitor, "You do not camp at the parking lots, but from here can backpack in to the woods on the Onondaga Trail or connecting trails, and from there you can do LNT dispersed camping." Forest regulations require camping at least 150 feet from water sources.
Several other state forests surround the area with primitive camping opportunities. Pharsalia Woods State Forest, about 25 miles southwest, provides multiple dispersed campsites including Bear Wallow Pond and Round Pond. Whaupaunaucau State Forest features "a network of miles of trails for both hiking and cross country skiing" with an official lean-to shelter on trail 20 and various primitive sites with stone fireplaces. Most sites throughout these forests are accessible through a combination of drive-in forest roads and short hiking trails, though visitors should bring all necessary supplies as amenities are minimal. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind."