Several state forests surrounding Fabius, New York provide access to free primitive camping sites accessible via rural roads and hiking trails. These forests, including Pharsalia Woods, Morgan Hill, and Whaupaunaucau, offer camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 2,000 feet with mixed hardwood forests. Dispersed camping areas typically follow New York DEC regulations requiring campers to set up at least 150 feet from water sources, roads, or trails.
What to do
Fishing in secluded ponds: Long Pond in the state forest west of Smithville Flats features multiple fishing access points including "a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1." According to Kevin C., the pond is "very productive for fisherman" and has consistently drawn local anglers throughout the season. Long Pond Campground has several shoreline campsites that provide direct access to fishing.
Hiking on interconnected trails: Bucks Brook State Forest offers both forest roads and hiking trails with varied terrain. Janet R. notes, "The Bucks Brook Forest Road follows a series of small waterfalls at the bottom of the gorge to the source of the creek near the top of the ridge above it, while the Finger Lakes trail follows the brook for a short while near its mouth before climbing offroad through the ridge high above the gorge." The trail system provides routes of different difficulties for day hikes or backpacking trips.
Birdwatching from elevated platforms: The Round Pond area in Pharsalia Woods State Forest features a specially constructed boardwalk that creates excellent birdwatching opportunities. The site has "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," according to Janet R., making it particularly valuable during seasonal migrations.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Several campers appreciate the waterfront access at Long Pond Campground where Katelyn H. was "able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock" and found that "each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood." She also noted good cell service with "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well," which can be uncommon in remote camping areas.
Unique ecosystems: The Round Pond Pharsalia Woods area offers camping near a distinctive bog ecosystem. Janet R. describes it as "a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!" The area requires campers to "sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees," making it accessible for spontaneous trips.
Reliable spacing between sites: Despite being primitive, many of the designated sites offer good separation between campers. At Long Pond, Kevin C. found that "the other camping spaces were close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet" and noted "campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer." Another camper mentioned that sites "seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access roads to many camping areas may be challenging or poorly maintained. At Pharsalia Woods State Forest, Janet R. warns that Grover Brown Road "is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road." She adds that "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."
No services at most sites: Bring everything you need as services are minimal or nonexistent. Kevin C. notes that Long Pond "has no water or garbage services" and "no phone signal" in some areas. Most sites have no water sources, and if streams or ponds are available, water requires filtering or treatment before use.
Seasonal considerations: Ticks are a significant concern in warmer months. In Whaupaunaucau State Forest, which offers "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams," Janet R. warns visitors to "beware of ticks, they are invading the region." Some forest roads may become impassable during winter or after heavy rains.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed primitive sites: For families, the designated primitive sites with minimal facilities are often better than completely dispersed camping. The Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead campground offers "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits" which are "very nice roomy wooded campsites" according to Janet R.
Bring complete supplies: With no services available, families need to be fully self-sufficient. One camper at Long Pond advised that they "would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster" but these amenities are not available, requiring families to bring water and pack out all trash.
Download forest maps beforehand: Cell service is unreliable, so having offline maps is crucial. For Morgan Hill, Janet suggests visitors "download the free Avenza map of the forest which will allow you to navigate real time even if you don't have cell service." This preparation helps prevent getting lost on confusing trail networks.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger rigs: Most dispersed camping areas are unsuitable for anything beyond small trailers. At Long Pond, Kevin C. found that "campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer" but noted "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel." None of the dispersed sites in the state forests accommodate larger RVs or fifth-wheels.
Limited turning space: Many forest roads have narrow access points with limited turning radius for trailers. The Whaupaunaucau State Forest access roads require careful navigation, especially for those towing even small trailers, as the forest roads were primarily designed for management access rather than recreational vehicles.
Consider alternative lodging for larger RVs: If you have a larger RV, consider staying at established campgrounds outside the state forests and using these areas for day trips. The free camping near Fabius is primarily suitable for tent camping or very small, self-contained camper vans that can navigate forest roads with limited clearance.
