Dispersed camping near Durhamville, New York offers primitive sites requiring campers to bring all supplies. The region features several undeveloped locations in state forests with elevations ranging from 1,200-1,900 feet. During spring and summer months, visitors should prepare for ticks and occasional wet access roads throughout these public lands where camping is typically permitted year-round.
What to do
Birdwatching at unique bog ecosystems: Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed features an accessible raised boardwalk overlooking a distinctive bog habitat. "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem... an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," notes one visitor.
Creek exploration and fishing: Several forest campsites offer water access for fishing. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite, visitors 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."
Waterfall hiking: Access points like the Morgan Hill Forest trails lead to seasonal water features. One camper shared, "Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring!"
What campers like
Trail networks: Many dispersed sites connect to established hiking systems. A reviewer of Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site described, "Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike on in the area."
Quiet seclusion: The remote locations attract campers seeking solitude. "Small but quiet campsite...overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful," reported a visitor to Winona State Forest.
No reservation requirements: Free camping near Durhamville provides spontaneous options. A camper at Whaupaunaucau State Forest explained, "This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county... dispersed leave-no-trace camping is allowed anywhere in the state forest, and the possibilities are endless."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Forest roads vary in quality and maintenance. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, a visitor cautioned, "You should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked."
Access roads: Some entry points require careful driving. One camper noted about Pharsalia Woods, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road."
Water filtration: Streams may require treatment. At Bucks Brook, campers advise there's "no water source other than the brook (you should filter it even though the source is a spring near by), no latrines, no fire grates though there is a stone fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Site identification: Look for designated primitive areas. A reviewer of Winona State Forest mentioned, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Several forests offer educational experiences for children. At Round Pond, "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog" provides easy nature viewing.
Proximity to villages: Some sites balance wilderness with convenience. A camper described Round Pond as "a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!"
Tips from RVers
Small clearing limitations: Most sites accommodate tents rather than large vehicles. At Towsley Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted it's "good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road. When you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road."
Road condition considerations: Forest service roads may restrict larger rigs. One camper warned about the approach to Pharsalia Woods, "The whole road in is a tough ride, it is posted extensively en route that you are passing private property with no trespassing allowed until you see the DEC sign announcing the border of the state forest."
Parking strategies: Some areas offer better vehicle access than others. A visitor at Morgan Hill mentioned, "There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
