Dispersed camping near Georgetown, New York offers primitive sites across several state forests within Chenango County. Winter access can be limited, with several forest roads becoming impassable after snowfall. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding valleys and making spring camping muddy through late May.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access points: Long Pond Campground features multiple water access options 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." Anglers report the pond is "very productive for fisherman."
Hiking trail networks: State forests contain extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. At Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed, trails "crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map." Downloading forest maps before arrival is essential as "the trails are blazed and have occasional signs" but navigation can be challenging.
Wildlife observation: Several ponds in the area provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The Round Pond area in Pharsalia Woods features "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."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite offers a "primitive undeveloped campsite" with "a clearing for tenting" adjacent to a small parking area. One visitor noted the shoreline wildflowers are "riotous" in summer, with "breathtaking" fall foliage.
Accessible fishing piers: Several ponds have designated fishing areas. At Balsam Pond, campers appreciate the "newly built boat launch can accommodate trailers for easy access and also has a well built handicapped accessible fishing pier."
Established fire rings: Many campsites feature previously built fire rings. At Long Pond, "each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site. Lots of good tinder left over from previous guests which has been helpful."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between providers. At Long Pond, one camper reported "T-Mobile service has been exceptional" while others experienced no signal at all, noting "no phone signal" with other carriers.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Beals Pond State Forest can be challenging to reach in winter as "the road is not maintained in the winter." Similarly, Grover Brown Road is described as being "in pretty rough shape" with official markings as a "low maintenance road."
No amenities at most sites: Prepare to be self-sufficient as amenities are minimal. One camper at Long Pond described it as "a leave no trace situation" noting they would "rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with toilet access: Only a few locations have bathroom facilities. Long Pond Campground offers "a port-a-potty near the entrance" which can be important for families with young children, though campers should note it's the only facility available.
Consider tick prevention: Local forests have significant tick populations. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, visitors are warned to "beware of ticks, they are invading the region," making proper clothing and regular tick checks essential for family camping.
Pick sites away from roads: Some campsites lack privacy from passing traffic. At Long Pond, some sites have "its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lake of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in off the highway."
Tips for RVers
Limited spaces for larger vehicles: Most sites accommodate only small camping vehicles. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground has "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits," making them more suitable for small RVs than tent-only areas.
Be cautious of low-clearance areas: Forest roads may have overhanging branches or rough sections. Long Pond campsites are described as "ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" with "sites level and long enough for a very small trailer."
Plan for no hookups: No sites offer water or electric connections. One camper at Long Pond noted "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," highlighting the need for alternative power sources when staying in rustic camping areas near Georgetown.
