Dispersed camping spots near Delphi Falls, New York offer options for both primitive tent camping and established campgrounds across elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,500 feet. The region receives approximately 40 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. State forest dispersed sites typically close after the first significant snowfall in late November and reopen when roads become passable in April.
What to do
Hiking around glacial lakes: Green Lakes State Park Campground features distinctive meromictic lakes that don't mix seasonally, resulting in their unusual blue-green color. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," notes Kenneth S., who regularly visits Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Fishing at woodland ponds: Morgan Hill State Forest offers multiple fishing spots with trout streams and small ponds. "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night. Port-a-potty was available," explains Rose S. about her experience at Spruce Pond Camping Area.
Cross-country trail exploration: Access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail directly from primitive campsites. The Morgan Hill Forest trail system connects to regional trail networks with moderate to difficult terrain. One reviewer notes, "From here you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail."
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: The region features spring-fed swimming holes and beach areas distinct from the gorges mentioned in the existing description. "Camp facilities were clean and well maintained... Swimming is available at the large beach. You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake," explains Cindy H. about her time at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground.
Secluded tent sites: Forest campsites offer privacy for those seeking quiet alternatives to busier established campgrounds. "This is a primitive state forest campground on the south shore of Stoney Pond. There are 15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods, and two developed walk-in sites on the west shore," describes Janet R. about Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area.
Proximity to small towns: Many campgrounds provide easy access to local communities for supplies and dining. "I enjoy this park so much! Really love that it is a park in the middle of little towns. Close to grocery, great walks and fun lake to swim in," shares Kelly J. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Most dispersed sites lack facilities for campers with mobility issues. "While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the Onondaga Trail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil," cautions Janet R. from Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground.
Variable shower facilities: Quality of shower facilities varies significantly between campgrounds. Chelsea B. notes: "The sites are good, level, and the campsite is pretty but as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads."
Seasonal road closures: Forest service roads accessing remote camping areas often close during wet periods or winter months. Many campgrounds operate only from May through October with varying opening dates. Primitive sites typically remain open year-round but may be inaccessible due to snow.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment located centrally within camping loops. "Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," shares Charyssa G. about her family visit to Fillmore Glen State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Stoney Pond and surrounding campgrounds offer morning wildlife viewing with minimal hiking required. Martin W. observed: "Nice and calm place in that little State Forest. Internet and fire pits are available."
Educational forest programs: Check with the DEC office in Cortland (607-753-3095) for scheduled ranger programs at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed during summer months. "This location has a set of 2 large trailhead parking lots for hikers and backpackers accessing the vast trail network of the Morgan Hill State Forest," notes Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup RV sites exist in the immediate area, with most offering electric only. "There are many sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," advises Cindy H. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Road grade considerations: Access roads to forest campgrounds often feature steep grades and sharp turns. Smaller rigs under 25 feet navigate these roads more successfully. Large RVs should stick to established state park campgrounds.
Cell service limitations: Cell reception varies widely across the region. Forest campgrounds generally have weak or no signal, while sites closer to towns maintain better connectivity. Prepare offline maps before arrival.
