Charles E. Baker State Forest provides primitive camping opportunities in a secluded woodland setting 15 miles from Deansboro, New York. The forest features dirt access roads leading to designated camping areas and dispersed sites throughout the property. Campers can enjoy both established sites with basic amenities and numerous backcountry locations suitable for tent camping.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: The forest network includes miles of marked and unmarked paths suitable for day hikes. "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods," notes a visitor to Charles E. Baker State Forest.
Fish at the pond: A small pond within the forest boundaries offers fishing opportunities for visitors. "Water access at a lovely nearby pond," reports one camper who stayed in the forest during late September.
Visit nearby attractions: The region around Deansboro offers additional recreation opportunities within driving distance. "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained. Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals," explains a visitor to The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The remote nature of forest camping near Deansboro creates a tranquil experience. "One of my favorite campgrounds in NY. Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers," shares one regular visitor to the area.
Free camping options: Dispersed camping areas in the state forest provide no-cost alternatives to developed campgrounds. "Free primitive camping" and "official camp spots with water access which are also free to use" are highlighted by visitors as significant benefits of the forest.
Seasonal variety: The area offers different experiences throughout the camping season. "Memorial day weekend the weather is beautiful spring weather. All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade. Been coming here for 25+ years," notes a long-time visitor to camping facilities near Deansboro.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most forest camping options lack modern amenities. A recent camper notes that Baker State Forest offers a "Free Primitive Campsite" with "no toilets" and consists of "a fire pit and picnic table."
Access considerations: Forest roads may present challenges depending on vehicle type and weather conditions. While the main forest access is described as "a long, but well maintained, dirt road," interior routes may be more rugged.
Dispersed camping regulations: While official sites exist, much of the forest permits dispersed camping. "There's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby," explains a visitor to Baker Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Consider amenities vs. experience: When bringing children to horse campgrounds near Deansboro, New York, evaluate the tradeoff between wilderness and facilities. One family with an RV reported a positive experience at a nearby campground: "We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs... The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of."
Check seasonal conditions: Weather varies significantly throughout the camping season. Late summer visits offer special night sky viewing opportunities, with one camper noting August is ideal for meteor shower observation.
Pack appropriately: Without on-site services at primitive sites, families need to bring all essentials. This includes sufficient water, food, and waste disposal systems for the duration of your stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV campers should research site specifications before arrival. "Very well thought out. All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd," explains one visitor to a developed campground near Deansboro.
Accessibility considerations: Horse campgrounds near Deansboro typically offer varying levels of RV access. "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins" are available at some locations, while the state forest requires more self-sufficient camping approaches.
Extended stay options: The area supports longer camping visits. "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans... The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," notes one RV family passing through the region.