Dispersed camping options near Honeoye in New York's Finger Lakes region range from grassy lakeside sites to wooded forest settings. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, offering moderate temperatures that average 75°F in summer and 25°F in winter. Seasonal accessibility varies significantly, with many forest roads becoming difficult to navigate during spring thaw or after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Explore fire tower views: At Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, hikers can climb the observation tower for panoramic vistas. "The view from the tower is pretty nice too!" notes camper Cam F., who appreciated the campground's location in "a lush green clearing with plenty of bird life."
Watch wildlife at dawn: Early risers at Palmers Pond State Forest can observe beaver activity throughout the day. One visitor, Mitch P., described the experience as "incredible" adding, "I drove out from Wisconsin and was the only one there. Threw up the tentsile tent overlooking the pond on the south side. What a wonderful way to wake up."
Horseback riding: Several forest roads and trails accommodate equestrian use. Kevin C. noted at Sugar Hill, "The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Unlike many dispersed camping areas, Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping offers maintained restrooms. Andrew S. reports, "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival," and another camper mentioned "flushing toilets and water access" as unexpected amenities.
Spacious, private sites: Several camping areas offer well-separated sites. David G. found Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite "perfect for sleeping" with "spacious" sites, while Ann M. appreciated finding "a clear, level designated site right off Tower Hill Rd."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple pond locations provide fishing access. Casaundra H. called Palmers Pond "my most favorite place to camp" with "a pond to fish in," while other visitors noted the peaceful waterfront settings perfect for relaxation.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Google Maps directions to some areas can be problematic. For Foster Pond Camping Area, Jacob D. advises, "Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you'll find a parking lot."
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from well-maintained to rough. Sydney M. warns about Palmers Pond: "The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal throughout the region. One Sugar Hill visitor reported, "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars."
Tips for camping with families
Consider weekday visits: For quieter experiences with children, avoid weekends during peak season. At Finger Lakes National Forest, Sarah M. noted, "The site was quiet, roomy and once at the 'top' is quite level. No vehicles came in or out all night (and it was a Saturday!)."
Pack trash bags: Some sites have accumulated litter requiring cleanup. Sarah M. also reported, "The site was trashy so we picked up a lot of what we could."
Check seasonal amenities: Facilities may change throughout the year. Lylah H. found at Sugar Hill, "I believe it's still off season so the spot with all the facilities wasn't open. We used the map on the state forest website."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for rig size: Rustic camping near Honeoye, New York offers limited options for larger vehicles. At Ossian State Forest on Scoville Road, Daniel R. noted, "Only a couple of the primitive sites are accessible and most of the trails are choked with growth or blocked with fallen trees. The roads are a little rough also."
Solar considerations: Some sites provide better sun exposure for solar panels. Andrew S. shared, "About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Several access roads demand higher-clearance vehicles. Regarding Foster Pond, Jacob D. mentions, "My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues," suggesting those with lower clearance vehicles may prefer to avoid certain forest roads entirely.
