Primitive camping dominates the Candor area landscape within New York's Southern Tier region. The region sits at elevations between 800-1,600 feet, creating diverse microclimates within the state forest system. Most dispersed sites remain open year-round, though late spring through early fall offers optimal camping conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 70-80°F in summer months.
What to do
Pond fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground provides 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 visitor Janet R. The pond attracts local anglers and is "very scenic and very productive for fisherman."
Hiking trail networks: Spruce Pond Camping Area connects to "an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails along with mountain biking along the forest roads." Reviewer Janet R. notes you can "easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch," providing scenic valley views.
Nature observation: Nature Lover's Paradise offers access to "70 acres of hiking trails" that provide natural immersion opportunities. A visitor notes this site is "the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature" with "access to such a large network of trails" within the Finger Lakes ecosystem.
What campers like
Secluded pond-front sites: Campers at Long Pond appreciate the direct water access. Kevin C. notes that "most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" and "camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy."
Accessible infrastructure: The Morgan Hill State Forest camping area features several accessible elements. According to Janet R., there is "a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway" and one campsite is "actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping with minimal required equipment draws tent campers to these forest sites. One Long Pond visitor mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Outhouses and portable toilets may not be available year-round. At Spruce Pond, one visitor reported "toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens," suggesting early-season campers should come prepared with personal sanitation supplies.
Security concerns: Some dispersed sites lack oversight. At Long Pond, Janet R. noted that campsites "strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway...doesn't seem real secure," with some sites showing evidence of "driveby garbage dumpers."
Noise considerations: Natural sounds can affect sleep quality. Rose S. reports that at Spruce Pond, "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," something light sleepers should consider when selecting camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Water purification: Tent camping near Candor requires water preparation. As Kevin C. noted about Long Pond, "there is no water or garbage services at this site," so families should bring sufficient water or filtration equipment for their stay.
Shade management: Ludlow Creek Lean-To provides reliable shelter options. Reviewer Janet R. describes "a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on a heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek," which offers protection from elements for family groups.
Site selection: Choose spots based on access needs and group size. Neil L. advises at Spruce Pond that "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," though he notes there are "great trees for hammock camping."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites accommodate only small rigs. Kevin C. observed at Long Pond that campsites are "level and long enough for a very small trailer," but notes that "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Full-hookup alternatives: Belden Hill Campgrounds offers developed sites for larger vehicles requiring utilities. Reviewer Tim W. confirms it provides "pull thru full hookup, level, spacious" sites with "room for pop up canopy and games" while maintaining "great views of the mountains."
