The Finger Lakes National Forest region surrounding Etna, New York sits at elevations between 800-2,000 feet, creating a varied landscape for primitive camping. The area features a mix of hardwood forests, open fields, and small ponds that support diverse wildlife populations. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this region, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Morgan Hill State Forest offers direct entry to the Onondaga Trail, part of the National North Country Scenic Trail system. According to a camper: "This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really 'dispersed' campsites."
Wildlife observation: Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping provides good opportunities for bird watching in a forested setting. A visitor noted: "Lovely campground in a lush green clearing with plenty of bird life. Good facilities with flushing toilets and trash and recycling on site."
Fishing access: Multiple ponds throughout the forests provide fishing opportunities for various species. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, a visitor reported: "Balsam Pond has a reputation as a good local fishing spot featuring trout, bass, and even tiger muskies. The pond itself is beautiful and is one of the larger state forest ponds in the area preserved in a natural state."
What campers like
Free camping options: The primitive camping near Etna, New York appeals to budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. A Sugar Hill camper shared: "This campground is basically a big field surrounded by the forest. The sites are really nice, each one has a table with benches and a fire place. You can drive your car in here (gravel road). It has a toilet house."
Privacy between sites: Long Pond Campground offers nicely spaced sites that provide a sense of seclusion. A reviewer mentioned: "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Uncrowded weekday camping: Many forest camping areas remain relatively quiet during weekdays. A camper at Sugar Hill Recreation Area noted: "Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night. The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping locations around Etna require self-sufficiency. At Foster Pond Camping Area, a camper reported: "Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you'll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you'll find free dispersed camping. NO AMENITIES."
Variable site maintenance: Site conditions can differ significantly between locations and seasons. A Balsam Swamp visitor noted: "Update: since my original visit, there have been some good upgrades including new portapotty. Some of the campsites are still in need of some TLC. The location is beautiful, but the campground seems to get heavy use and has some wear and tear."
Cell service variability: Connectivity changes based on specific location and carrier. At Long Pond, one camper shared: "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well. I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For families, the more established areas provide better amenities. At Sugar Hill, a camper observed: "We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. Its location is convenient, just a 15-minute drive from Watkins Glen."
Pack water supplies: No running water exists at most primitive sites. A Long Pond camper advised: "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Consider proximity to attractions: Finger Lakes National Forest provides access to regional highlights. A Sugar Hill visitor mentioned: "We stayed here during an anniversary trip to the Finger Lakes. Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many forest roads have limitations for larger vehicles. A Long Pond camper noted: "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Seasonal road conditions: Forest roads can become challenging after rain or snow. At Finger Lakes National Forest, a reviewer cautioned: "The road in (a loop) is steep on both sides (a truck or vehicle with clearance would be helpful but you could also park at the bottom if you needed to). The site was trashy so we picked up a lot of what we could."
Find level parking: Bucks Brook State Forest and other areas may require careful positioning. One visitor shared: "The setting is scenic and picturesque, and the winding trail can be quite a challenge if hiking the long way uphill on the FTL. An easier hike-in access is at Ridge Rd, about a 1/4 hike to the brook where there are several nice flat tent sites."
