Looking for the best options for tent camping near Homer? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Homer. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Homer, New York's most popular destinations.
From the Spruce Pond Camping Area, wheelchair accessible features include the:
Primitive campsite (Site 1); and
Portable toilet (seasonal)
The campsite is approx. 75 feet from the parking area.
Primitive camping at Spruce Pond, from May 1 through September 30, requires a permit from the Lands and Forests office. Please call (607) 674-4036 ext. 600, M-F 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM to obtain a permit. For the remainder of the year, sites are available on a first come, first served basis.
You'll have full access to the tent site and 70 acres of hiking trails which connects to a larger network of trails that spans the Finger Lakes and continues west of New York.
$79 - $149 / night
The primary purposes of Pharsalia Wildlife Management Area (WMA) are for wildlife management, wildlife habitat management, and wildlife-dependent recreation. This WMA is 4,689 acres in size and is located in the northwest portion of Chenango County, approximately 10 miles southwest of Sherburne. Pharsalia generally has flat or gently sloping terrain.
In 1926 Pharsalia became the first State Game Refuge purchased with Conservation Fund monies. Thousands of trees and shrubs were planted for reforestation and wildlife purposes. A 200-man Civilian Conservation Corp camp accomplished much of the work and also constructed several small ponds for waterfowl use.
Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. More details here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41282.html
Primitive camping is allowed on many DEC lands, including Forest Preserve lands in the Catskills and Adirondacks, as well as on State Forest lands outside the Preserve. Primitive camping is prohibited on Unique Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and a few other categories of state land.
Where to Set Up Camp The best place to camp is at designated primitive tent sites. These sites are typically flatter than other areas and have deeper, harder soils more resistant to heavy use and erosion, minimizing the impacts of camping. Many sites have nearby pit privies and rock fire rings.
Yellow and black camp here marker attached to a tree "Camp Here" marker Campers are encouraged to use designated tent sites. They are often close to trails and provide views of ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. These can be a source of water when properly treated.
All designated primitive tent sites have yellow and black "Camp Here" markers. Many sites on lakes and ponds are identified by a yellow number against a dark brown wooden plaque typically attached to a tree near the water's edge.
Ranger
Nice modern-esque camp site with great views of the lake. They have cabins but we tent camped. Tent sites are open. On site they have swimming, boat launch, and (I think) a playground. Lots of other places to hike in the area too, plus attractions like wine trails, breweries, quaint amusement parks.
Scout
I have stayed in the tent sites three times now and I really enjoy this campground. Nice clean sites with picnic tables that are in good shape. It is just a short walk to the beautiful lake front. Bathrooms are a little far from the tent sites with only one shower. This can be tough since there are a lot of seasonal sites for campers and RVs across from the tent sites using the same facilities. Very nice little beach for swimming and the perfect spot for going to the wineries. Sites are not very private but I have encountered very nice neighbors every time so it hasn't been an issue.
ScoutWe have stayed in the 300 Loop and 400 loop on different occasions. These are non-electric tent camping loops, bathrooms are a short walk from spots, if you have kids there is a playground by the more open spots in the inner part of each loop or you can stay in the more secluded outer ring of the loops. We loved these spots and for anyone camping in the Finger Lakes region I would definitely recommend Cayuga Lake State Park. They have cabin and RV spots as well but we prefer tent camping.
Traveler
Tent camping is $15/ night. You can get in to the park for free between 7 and 10pm though.
Scout
Have private tent site, bathroom is small but super clean!
Traveler
We went up for a weekend trip. Tent camping. Site was sufficiently private and tucked away, but water/bathrooms/showers were close enough. Very clean facilities! Really enjoyed the kayaking and beach area. The trails were not all that great and provided only minor enjoyment.
Guide
Picturesque Finger Lakes state park with a day’s worth of hiking trails on site. The campground is wooded and lovely but the tent sites don’t have views of the falls or anything, couldn’t hear water at night. Deer outside the tent, wildflowers through summer, great leaves in fall.
ScoutWe stayed in a tent site for the weekend and loved it! The camp site was set back in the trees with a ton of privacy. Very clean facilities with hot water. We will definitely be back to Back Achers.
ScoutTent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard. We could hear so many different families talking and really doing everything you do while camping but the area felt so open and unobstructed voices carried and in the evening when everyone was building campfires the smoke could be overwhelming at times.
Guide
We stayed through this weekend and had a great time and got to see some awesome sunsets. It was a little bit of a walk to get water but we were tent camping so we didn’t really mind. Our site had electric hook ups which we really didn’t need being in a tent but it was nice for charging our phones. Overall had a great time.
Scout
Great Views from Tent Sites. You need a code to use the bathroom and there is only 1. Showers could be closer and seem more accommodating to day users. It's a loud and busy place certain times of the year due to a raceway located nearby and fising events as well. We camped at Oneida Shores Park in a Tent.
ScoutThe tent sites on the west camp were roomy and reasonably private, but there weren't many water locations and no electric on that side of the park. The facilities were about as nice as you can expect at a state run campground. We're already planning to go back next year for more nights.
Traveler
Seneca Lake and Taughannock Gorge Trail with waterfall is beautiful. However, swimming in lake is mediocre, and lots of steps on the hike. Only 2 showers in each bathhouse and low-end. Toilets are old and a bit dirty. Tent sites are
spacious and somewhat private. Electric sites are small and close to neighbor.
RangerBeen here in all the seasons, each is beautiful. Campgrounds are wooded. Pretty basic facilities, nice though. None of the tent sites have exceptional views but you’re a short walk from the creek/gorges. Reserve ahead of time in summer. Lots of woods, wildlife here and in the many other state parks close by to keep all ages occupied.
Legend
Ashley here with The Dyrt. Let's give a warm welcome to your hosts Sheryl & Matt! This is the perfect place to car or tent camp. Enjoy a private fire-pit and dive into Lake Seneca! Only a 4 min drive from Watkins Glenn. This place has it all. Lots of sites to choose from, some even have hammocks! Dog friendly. Check them out and leave them some love!
Scout
Beautiful lakes! The walking/hiking trails are fabulous. They also offer an activity booklet for the kids to fill out during their stay to earn a patch. We camped with our 30 foot trailer on an obvious tent site as it was a bit hard to back in between the trees, but the site was nice and flat and clean. Definitely can’t wait to go back!
Guide
This place is right on the river and the freeway! So it’s kind of loud the people are super friendly and had fresh vegetables and home baked goods available. There’s always snacks. All the sites are full hook up I’m pretty sure . They used to have tent sites but no longer. The river is very pretty and I didn’t spend enough time to explore. It’s close to convenient stores.
Legend
Camping at Chenango Valley State Park is always a great time. The park is very family friendly. It has numerous hiking and biking trails, two lakes (Lily and Kettle) and a 18-hole golf course for guests to enjoy. The grounds and bathrooms are very well maintained and the sites are level for those RV or tent camping. We enjoy the sites because they’re spacious and woodsy. They make you feel secluded, but are also a short drive from a brewery and the city of binghamton.
Traveler
i pulled in at about 6pm mid week, the ranger station was closed
drove around & found tent site 79 open, it's next to the river.
I was able to pull directly into the camp site,
the campground is well maintained, the porta potty in the tent area was very clean, i felt very safe
the only draw back to this campground is the close proximity of the noisy highway but great for a one night stay or longer if you're accustom to the noise
RangerOne of my favorite parks in the area, this one is on the largest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga. Visit in the fall for unrivaled scenery (better than New England in my opinion!). Great area for biking, kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing, plus winery tours. Close to Ithaca, a wonderful "hippie" college town.
Nice State Park campground, clean & good facilities. Mostly tent/camper camping, also cabins (I've only tent camped). Nice large sites and while not super private it is serene (as long as you're not too close to the playground or highway). Shady, usually a bit of a breeze. Accessible sites are really very accessible.
Guide
Small, family owned campground w/173 sites. Very quiet, rural area. Sites are very large and well maintained. Sites along the creek and lagoon have shade trees; tent sites to FHU’s; creekside beach; swings, patio agility course, many planned activities for kids: hayrides, sandcastle contests, Santa visit in July. Live bands or DJ’s on holiday weekends. Many fishing areas and several boat launch places with water access to large Oneida Lake. Bathrooms and showers are immaculate and well stocked. Staff members and owners are very pleasant and friendly.
Guide
5/5 Stars!
I recently stayed at Sned Acres Campground, and it was an incredible experience! The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The facilities were spotless, and the campsites were spacious and well-kept. Whether you’re RVing or tent camping, there’s plenty of space and privacy.
The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings made for a relaxing getaway. I can’t recommend Sned Acres enough – we’ll definitely be back!
Traveler
The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. I love the idea of having access to such a large network of trails, especially with the Finger Lakes area offering so much natural beauty. By the way, if you’re ever in need of some inspiration or ideas for nature-related essays, check out Nature Essay Examples and Topic Ideas on https://www.topessaywriting.org/samples/nature —there’s a lot of helpful content there! Overall, this seems like the ideal spot for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
GuideTent camping in the beautiful winding camp ground many shady trees brings you back to nature. We brought our bikes and explored the many hiking and riding trails on the premises. We loved the swimming beach soaking up the sun and cool refreshing water. As fisherman we loved that the rangers told us that the lake was regularly stocked with trout and other game fish. For the boaters there is an ample ramp to launch as well as boat rentals on the marina. Conveniences are provided with many bathrooms and shower facilities throughout the camp ground. For those not to into tenting there are cabins available to keep you safe. We camped in July, but were told that the park is opened for winter activities such as xcountry skiing and snow mobiling. A fun trip for the whole family
GuideI have camped CVSP several times in all sorts of capabilities, tent camping, pop-up and hard sided campers. Whether you are looking for a campsite in a forest setting or one with a large open field you can find it. There's is a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned, as well as great hiking and mountain biking trails. Keep your eye peeled for the resident bald eagle and think about brining your clubs for a round of golf. The bathhouses are maybe the only negative to our whole experience but with the upgrade coming right now to the swimming area which oncludes better water circulation and a splashpad we will alwaus enjoy our trip here.
LegendThis is a great example of what a state park should be. It not only preserves a place of unique biological diversity and geologic interest, it is also well set up and well maintained to maximize low impact outdoor recreation and environmental education. A new state of the art regional environmental education center is being built now that will open in spring, as well as new handicapped access kayaking docks that complement Accessible trails and campsites throughout the park. This is a great destination for families, handicapped campers, and natural history enthusiasts. There are several campgrounds, one is large and open and meant for large RVs, others are drive-in forested tent sites or trailer sites with hookups, and several walkin sites. There is also a colony of rustic camper cabins. The campgrounds have brand new restroom facilities and playgrounds, and the main lake has a new beach house. The lake is a fascinating meromictic lake with clear calcium-rich waters that are not only pristine and beautiful to look at, but also great for swimming and snorkeling as the waters are crystal clear and very deep. There are hiking trails, paved bike trails, a nature preserve for bird watching at Round Lake, a golf course, and great kayaking or canoeing. It is also located right next door to the Erie Canal State Park for those who want to hike or bike the historic Erie Canal. Though you might expect a park like this to be in a remote location, it is actually just a short distance east of the suburbs of the Syracuse metro area, so it is an easy park to get to, plus staying there also provides easy access to stores for supplies, or access to local cultural activities or restaurants for those who want that. One of my favorite state parks in New York!
Guide
Charles has beautiful property! Acres and acres to explore and admire! The most accessible is a patch of pines with several tent sites, a small cabin, stone outdoor stove and a cool clear pond that is stocked with fish! Follow the corn on foot or an 4 wheel drive vehicle to the back pasture a more open area with apple trees and another small pond, further out is more land and wooded area Charles is happy to offer to you! I stayed 3 nights with my daughter and dog and had a wonderful time! This is a perfect for a quick quiet getaway, or to camp and explore apple orchards in the area! Charles sells fresh meat on site and it is amazing!!! I highly recommended this property, Charles is a wonderful host willing to help with anything, very family friendly and dog friendly to boot!!!
Tent camping near Homer, New York, offers a variety of scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from rustic sites to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Homer, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Homer, NY is Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Homer, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Homer, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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