Tent campsites near Kirkwood, New York can be found throughout the surrounding state forests and private properties. The region features wooded camping areas at elevations between 800-1,500 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F while spring and fall camping may require additional layers for overnight temperatures that can drop below 45°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground provides direct fishing access with multiple points for anglers. According to Kevin C., "About 100 yards away was the public fishing dock and another camp site. There were two young men fishing there at about 7 PM." The pond is productive for fishermen with boat launch, carry-in kayak access, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier.
Visit nearby wildlife attractions: Belden Hill Campgrounds serves as a convenient base for regional exploration. Jennifer K. notes, "Great at&t service. Fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street."
Backpacking: Explore the Finger Lakes Trail system which features primitive camping options. The Ludlow Creek Lean-To provides "a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County," according to Janet R., who describes it as "located in a beautiful, unspoiled and seldom visited region of state forest."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Long Pond. Kevin C. mentions, "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Stream-side camping: Oh! Pear Orchards offers unique camping experiences along flowing water. Heather T. reports, "Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible."
Extended stays: For campers seeking longer wilderness immersion, certain areas permit extended camping periods. At Long Pond Campground, Katelyn H. shares her experience: "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."
What you should know
Limited or no facilities: Most dispersed camping areas require complete self-sufficiency. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond Campground, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal" and "Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Seasonal access challenges: Winter camping presents access limitations in many locations. Joshua M. reports about Beals Pond State Forest, "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Carry-in requirements: Some sites require hiking gear in from parking areas. At Oh! Pear Orchards, Heather T. describes, "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site, though we did not need that with the cart."
Tips for camping with families
Consider established campgrounds: Families may prefer sites with more amenities. Belden Hill Campgrounds offers family-friendly facilities with Tim W. noting, "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts."
Security considerations: Be aware of site location relative to roads and public access. Janet R. cautions about some locations: "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."
Scout for level tent sites: Finding flat ground is essential for comfortable family camping. At Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite, Janet R. describes "a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on a heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek," providing a solid shelter option for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most dispersed camping areas cannot accommodate larger RVs. For those needing hookups, Belden Hill Campgrounds offers suitable facilities. John P. recommends, "Very quiet, good showers, very clean. I recommend and I will return."
Solar limitations: Dense tree coverage affects solar charging capabilities. Kevin C. reports from Long Pond Campground, "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," suggesting campers should plan alternative power sources.
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. Tim W. shared his experience at Belden Hill Campgrounds: "Unfortunately we were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable, not their fault. Would visit again. Stayed in 38ft motorhome."
