Charles E. Baker State Forest provides dispersed camping opportunities near DeRuyter, New York. Located in central New York at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, this area experiences cool summer nights with daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F in summer months. The forest terrain includes mixed hardwood stands with some elevation changes, making it suitable for various outdoor activities regardless of camping style.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: Baker State Forest connects to multiple trail networks suitable for horseback riding, with some trails extending several miles through varied woodland terrain. Charles E. Baker State Forest receives positive feedback for its accessibility, with one visitor noting, "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."
Fishing access: Water recreation options include fishing at nearby ponds within the forest boundary. Access points are typically unimproved but allow for basic shore fishing. One camper reports, "Water access at a lovely nearby pond," making this an option for visitors looking to supplement their camping experience with fishing.
Casino entertainment: For those seeking nearby entertainment options, The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone provides shuttles to the adjacent casino complex. According to a visitor, "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: The primitive camping areas provide separation from neighboring sites with natural vegetation barriers. The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone receives praise for balancing amenities with privacy: "Sitesare spacious, lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean."
Flexible camping options: Baker State Forest allows dispersed camping throughout much of the property with minimal restrictions. A visitor confirms, "There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use." This flexibility extends to horse camping, though campers must bring their own portable corrals or highline equipment.
Seasonal advantages: Late summer and early fall provide optimal camping conditions with reduced insect activity. One visitor specifically recommends: "My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most horse campgrounds near DeRuyter, New York operate with minimal facilities. At Baker State Forest, a camper reports, "Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets, but this is a great camping experience." Visitors should prepare accordingly with sufficient water and sanitation supplies.
Access considerations: Forest roads leading to camping areas may have seasonal conditions affecting passage. While generally accessible, one visitor notes Baker State Forest is reached via "the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road." Larger horse trailers may require careful navigation during wet conditions.
Campsite availability: The designated sites fill quickly during peak season weekends. A visitor observed, "Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby." Arriving mid-week improves chances of securing preferred sites.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families should consider campgrounds with diverse amenities when equestrian activities aren't the primary focus. One visitor to Turning Stone notes, "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout."
Educational opportunities: Bring field guides specific to central New York forests to identify local wildlife and plant species. Baker State Forest's varied terrain provides numerous learning opportunities about woodland ecosystems.
Timing considerations: For families with children, late September offers comfortable camping with reduced insect activity. A visitor confirms, "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September... Bugs aren't an issue."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When bringing horses in larger rigs, assess forest roads carefully before proceeding. Many horse campgrounds near DeRuyter offer limited turning radius for larger combinations. At more developed campgrounds like Turning Stone, "We had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A."
Utility preparation: For dry camping in equestrian areas, calculate water needs for both human and equine requirements. Pack sufficient containers as most horse camping areas provide no hookups or water sources. Prepare for 2-3 gallons per person per day plus 5-10 gallons per horse depending on temperature.
Duration planning: Consider scheduling longer stays at developed campgrounds between primitive camping locations. One RVer reports about Turning Stone: "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."
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