Tent camping near Deansboro, New York offers several primitive backcountry options within the region's mixed hardwood forests. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet with a humid continental climate that delivers distinct seasons. Summer nights typically remain in the 50°F range even when daytime temperatures climb, making sleeping conditions comfortable for tent campers during peak season.
What to do
Fishing for brook trout: The ponds throughout Pharsalia Woods State Forest provide excellent fishing opportunities. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, one camper noted, "You can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail."
Paddling on secluded ponds: Several camping areas feature small ponds suitable for non-motorized watercraft. At Morgan Hill State Forest, "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: The state forests around Deansboro support diverse wildlife. A camper at Spruce Pond Camping Area mentioned, "The animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," showing the abundance of nocturnal wildlife, particularly amphibians during warmer months.
What campers like
Access to extensive trail networks: Many campsites connect directly to regional hiking systems. At Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite, campers appreciate the "Beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided" that serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the Finger Lakes Trail.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked ponds provide reliable fishing. One review noted, "The pond is deep and clear and stocked with brook trout," making these locations popular with anglers looking for quiet fishing spots within easy access of primitive campsites.
Free camping options: Most primitive sites in the state forests charge no fees. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, one camper reported, "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby."
Hammock-friendly forests: The mature tree stands work well for hammock users. A reviewer at Spruce Pond noted, "Great trees for hammock camping though," highlighting an alternative sleeping arrangement that works well in these wooded settings.
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Some sites require advance permits while others don't. For example, at Jackson Pond Tent Sites, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095, or email at Info.R7@dec.ny.gov; allow one week for permit to be processed."
Road conditions can be challenging: Many access roads are unpaved and minimally maintained. A camper observed, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road," when accessing a trailhead in Pharsalia Woods State Forest.
Water sources are limited: Few sites offer potable water. One camper stated clearly, "This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind," underscoring the need to bring sufficient water supplies.
Seasonal facilities: Some sites have facilities that aren't available year-round. At Spruce Pond, a review mentioned, "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens," indicating that even basic amenities may be seasonal.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with pond access: Water features provide entertainment for children. In Morgan Hill State Forest, there are "ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available and an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails."
Consider site location and size: At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, "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," providing more space for family setups.
Scout accessibility levels: Some sites offer partial accessibility. A reviewer noted that at Morgan Hill Forest, the developed sites are "supposedly ADA accessible—but while I agree that the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accomodate wheelchairs... there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites."
Pack for active wildlife: Expect nighttime sounds from local fauna. A camper mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," which could either delight or disturb younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for vehicle size: Most primitive sites have limited space for vehicles. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, "Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road. Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table," with minimal turning space for larger vehicles.
Consider tent camping even with RVs: Due to road conditions, some RVers opt to park and set up tents instead. One camper described a campsite as "a hike in stop on the Finger Lakes Trail, but can also be accessed by a short walk-in from Elmer Jackson Rd," suggesting a park-and-walk approach might be necessary.
Check seasonal road access: Spring conditions often limit vehicle access. A review about Morgan Hill stated campers "can drive right up to your campsite location" but cautioned that unmarked forest roads can be confusing without proper maps or GPS.
