Dispersed camping options around Groton, New York extend beyond Morgan Hill State Forest into several additional state forests within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the northern edge of the Appalachian Plateau with elevations ranging between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer nights typically remain cool even after warm days.
What to do
Fishing at Long Pond: Seven primitive campsites along the shoreline provide direct access to this productive fishing spot. "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: 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," notes reviewer Janet R. at Long Pond Campground.
Hiking the Finger Lakes Trail: Jackson Pond Tent Sites offers access to marked hiking paths. "Great for hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, easy access from either Norwich or South Otselic," writes Janet R. about Jackson Pond Tent Sites. Permits are required and must be obtained from the regional DEC office.
Kayaking at Y Pond: Non-motorized boats only on this clear, deep pond stocked with brook trout. "The pond is deep and clear and stocked with brook trout, and the campsite on the east side of the pond is in an idyllic setting with good camping, fishing, and day hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail," according to a review of Pharsalia Y Pond.
What campers like
Primitive experience with established sites: Campers appreciate the balance between wilderness and minimal facilities. "Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really 'dispersed' campsites," notes Janet R. about Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground.
Handicap accessible options: Several campgrounds offer accessible sites. "There are fire grills and nicely developed tent sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access, and one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot," reports Janet R. about Spruce Pond Camping Area.
Extended stay potential: Some sites allow longer camping periods. "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," writes Katelyn H. about Long Pond Campground.
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Some state forest camping requires advanced planning. For Pharsalia Y Pond, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area campsite 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."
Limited facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," explains Kevin C. about Long Pond.
Variable site quality: At Nature Lover's Paradise, campers gain "access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York," but at other locations like Upper Lisle Park, there's "really nothing here. Other than a nice place to launch the kayak in the upper river and into Dorchester lake," according to Paully B.
Tips for camping with families
Bring small tents: Campsite layouts may limit larger shelter options. According to Neil L. at Spruce Pond, "The first few campsites are the best, the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best here."
Prepare for wildlife sounds: Natural noise can affect sleep quality for sensitive campers. "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," notes Rose S. about Spruce Pond Camping Area.
Seek out nearby farm stands: Local produce is available seasonally near some campgrounds. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground is accessible "from the south side of the forest; the entrance is from state route 13 on Morgan Hill Rd south, adjacent to a very nice farm stand that is a good stop for supplies."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Groton can only accommodate the smallest RVs. Kevin C. notes that 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."
Expect limited hookups: No water or electric connections exist at most sites. "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," reports Kevin C. about the best tent camping near Groton, New York.
Consider secluded spacing: Sites offer decent separation between campers. "Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy," notes Kevin C., who would "rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
