Tent camping near Dresden, New York typically experiences warm summers with average temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s and cool springs and falls in the 50s to 60s range. The Finger Lakes region features a rolling landscape with both wooded and open camping terrain, situated between multiple lakes. Sites at Morgan Hill State Forest's Spruce Pond area offer direct pond access with fishing opportunities and maintained fire grills at most sites.
What to do
Explore pond fishing spots: Spruce Pond Camping Area in Morgan Hill State Forest provides fishing access directly from several campsites. A recent visitor noted, "Lots of fisherman frequent the pond. Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens. The first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up."
Hike forest trail systems: Morgan Hill Forest offers access to the Onondaga Trail branch of the North Country Scenic Trail for day hikes. The area includes "an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails along with mountain biking along the forest roads," according to campers who visited the area.
Kayak nearby waterways: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort offers camping with access to water activities. A camper mentioned, "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area."
Visit local farms and stands: When camping near Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, you can access "a very nice farm stand that is a good stop for supplies" adjacent to the forest entrance from Route 13 on Morgan Hill Road south.
What campers like
Peaceful pond soundscape: The natural ambiance at some sites creates distinctive camping experiences. One camper at Spruce Pond Camping Area observed, "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."
Family-oriented activities: Tent campers appreciate organized recreation at established campgrounds. At Holiday Hill Campground, visitors find "tons of activities for kids and adults. The sites are spacious and very well kept," though some note that "it makes it loud with kids running through your site."
Accessible outdoor immersion: For those seeking clothing-optional camping, Empire Haven Nudist Park provides a nature-focused experience. A camper shared, "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you."
Simple tent sites with views: Basic camping areas offer scenic advantages with minimal development. At Gardner Hill Campground, a visitor shared, "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views. Don't forget to look for the Peace sign."
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Free camping at Morgan Hill requires permits and preparation. A visitor explained, "You can camp at this campground for free, but you do need a permit and should review the campground map to select your preferred site."
Facilities are limited at primitive sites: State forest campgrounds have specific amenity limitations. At Morgan Hill, "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 OnondagaTrail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil."
Seasonal water access: Water availability changes throughout the camping season in Dresden area campgrounds. At Cross Lake Park Campgrounds, visitors report, "Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Campsite leveling challenges: Some established campgrounds have terrain issues. At Twilight on the Erie, a camper shared, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-centric campgrounds: For tent camping in Dresden with children, select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Holiday Hill Campground offers "clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars. There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site."
Consider campground layout: At Twilight on the Erie, families appreciate the safety measures: "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff."
Bring appropriate tent sizes: When camping at Spruce Pond, note that "Smaller tents would be best do here. Great trees for hammock camping though," which helps when planning sleeping arrangements for family members.
Pack extra water: At primitive sites like Morgan Hill Forest, families need to "come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water," as there are no water sources directly at the campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Holiday Hill Campground, RVers recommend planning ahead: "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side. There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get."
Research accessibility: When tent camping Dresden, New York in an RV, research forest road access carefully. For Morgan Hill Forest campground, "You can set your driving directions on Google Maps beforehad," and "download the free Avenza map of the forest which will allow you to navigate real time even if you don't have cell service."
Consider seasonal rates: Camping costs vary by season in the Dresden area. One camper noted that "$43 per night for end of the season weekend isn't bad" at nearby campgrounds, making shoulder season camping more economical.
