The central New York region around Georgetown offers primitive camping opportunities within several state forests at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters often below freezing. Most dispersed camping options are concentrated in the Pharsalia Woods State Forest, Long Pond area, and nearby wildlife management areas where sites typically allow 14-day stays following DEC regulations.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Access multiple ponds throughout the area for paddling and angling opportunities. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite, one camper notes, "If you camp here, you 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."
Hiking on the Finger Lakes Trail: Several campsites connect directly to this regional trail system. The Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite offers "a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York. It is located in a beautiful, unspoiled and seldom visited region of state forest, providing a wilderness type experience."
Mountain biking: Numerous forest roads throughout the region provide cycling routes of varying difficulty. The network of trails in Pharsalia Woods State Forest is particularly accessible for riders seeking both easy and technical terrain.
Wildlife viewing: The various ponds and wetlands attract diverse bird species. Jackson Pond Tent Sites provide excellent opportunities for "hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, easy access from either Norwich or South Otselic."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer significant distance between camping areas. A visitor to Live The Outdoors LLC reported, "It's super private and peaceful, and we loved that it's not a crowded campground. The land is open and easy to access, and you can tell the owners are constantly upgrading and improving things."
Well-maintained lean-tos: Several shelters along the Finger Lakes Trail provide reliable protection. At Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite, campers appreciate the "Beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
Access to multiple water features: The region contains numerous small lakes and streams for recreation. At Long Pond Campground, a camper mentioned, "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery."
Year-round camping opportunities: Seasonal changes create varied experiences throughout the calendar. The cooler spring and fall months typically offer fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance permission from DEC offices. For Jackson Pond Tent Sites, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095, or email at Info.R7@dec.ny.gov; allow one week for permit to be processed."
Water availability: Most sites have no potable water sources. At Pharsalia Y Pond, "This is a primitive campsite, no shelter or latrine but there are several fire rings and good tent sites as well as a gentle water access right on the shore."
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating rough forest roads. One camper described Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed camping access: "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road... the whole road in is a tough ride."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between locations. Long Pond campers report, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easier access: For families with young children, some locations offer better options than others. Bear Wallow Pond is described as "A peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend."
Consider partially developed campgrounds: When tent camping Georgetown, New York with children, sites with minimal amenities may be preferable. Belden Hill Campgrounds offers "Clean bathrooms and laundry rooms" and is "Really nice clean and quiet campground. Incredible views."
Plan multiple activities: Keeping children engaged requires preparation. At Jackson Pond Tent Sites, campers appreciate that it's "perfect for individual or group tenting, such as scout groups, fishermen, backpackers and hikers."
Bring all essential supplies: No stores exist within immediate access of most sites. Remember that for many locations, as a Long Pond camper noted, "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. At Long Pond, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Limited hookups: Prepare for self-contained camping at most locations. One RVer at Belden Hill Campgrounds described their experience as "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games."
Road accessibility concerns: Many forest roads present challenges for larger vehicles. Consider scouting locations first or contacting local forest offices for current road conditions before attempting access with an RV.
