Best Tent Camping near Jacksonville, NY

Tent campsites throughout the state forests near Jacksonville, New York offer a mix of primitive and developed options for outdoor enthusiasts. Morgan Hill State Forest provides established tent camping areas at the Onondaga Trailhead campground and Spruce Pond, where sites feature fire pits and picnic tables. Long Pond Campground in the Pharsalia Woods State Forest offers dispersed tent camping with lakeside access and fishing opportunities. These public lands provide backcountry tent camping experiences within a reasonable drive from nearby towns.

Tent campgrounds in these areas typically feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Most sites include established fire rings and cleared tent pads, though facilities are minimal. The Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground has picnic tables and fire pits on cement pads but lacks water sources and permanent toilets. Spruce Pond Camping Area offers ten primitive sites with fire grills and an outhouse. Many locations require campers to pack in all water and supplies while adhering to leave-no-trace principles. Several areas require camping permits obtained through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation.

Forest cover provides ample shade at most tent sites, with many positioned strategically near water features. Spruce Pond offers four sites with direct pond access, including one that's wheelchair accessible with its own fishing landing. The primitive nature of these campgrounds appeals to those seeking solitude and natural surroundings. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, particularly for birdwatchers. Several sites connect to extensive trail networks, including the Finger Lakes Trail and North Country Scenic Trail. A camper noted that "the setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond. You can also easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch."

Best Tent Sites Near Jacksonville, New York (21)

    1. Empire Haven Nudist Park

    1 Review
    Moravia, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 497-0135

    "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you."

    2. Camp Earth Connection

    Be the first to review!
    Harford, NY
    17 miles
    Website

    $45 - $125 / night

    3. Gardner Hill Campground

    1 Review
    Elmira, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 732-9827

    "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views. Don’t forget to look for the Peace sign."

    4. Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Apulia Station, NY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "Toilet isn’t set up yet but will once the season opens. 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 do here."

    "Although dispersed primitive camping is allowed elsewhere throughout the state forest, this is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available"

    5. Nature Lover's Paradise

    3 Reviews
    Fabius, NY
    40 miles
    +1 (561) 503-9444

    $79 - $149 / night

    "Nature Lover's Paradise is new to the Dyrt and they have an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York. "

    "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."

    6. Long Pond Campground

    4 Reviews
    Georgetown, NY
    40 miles

    "Aside from that this was a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock."

    "While this is next to the road, it is also within 40 yards of the only potta potty in the park. About 100 yards away was the public fishing dock and another camp site."

    7. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    1 Review
    Truxton, NY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right **next **"

    8. Upper Lisle Park

    1 Review
    Killawog, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 692-4612

    9. Lakeshore Grocery & Otisco Lake Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Marietta, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 636-9925

    $35 - $139 / night

    10. Lawrence Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Lawrenceville, PA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 835-5281

    $40 - $100 / night

    "Had a great few days here camped in RV next to lake. Amazing driftwood to be had. Good kayaking. Peaceful. Trees. Nice sites if close. I'd go back mid week or off season."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Jacksonville, NY

493 Reviews of 21 Jacksonville Campgrounds


  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    Morgan Hill OT/NCST trailhead campground

    This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really “dispersed” campsites. There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the  developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible —but while I agree that the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accomodate wheelchairs, and the tenting area is roomy, note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground. While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the OnondagaTrail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil, so you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water. (See attached map where I circled the campground area in orange) That being said, this location is peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers, and would be an ideal setting for a group campout. Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring! You can best access this campground 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, and there is a DEC forest sign to mark the turn off from Rt 13.  After that, you are on your own and should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked. You can set your driving directions on Google Maps beforehad, to this endpoint: https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.767846,-75.997552/@42.7799792,-76.08097,12z?entry=ttu

    You might also want to download the free Avenza map of the forest which will allow you to navigate real time even if you don't have cell service, that link is here: https://store.avenza.com/products/morgan-hill-state-forest-nysdec-map?queryID=eb824498ff4125babc1c06655b111da4&objectID=42626406056092

     general info for this state forest is here: 

    https://dec.ny.gov/places/morgan-hill-state-forest

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 6, 2017

    Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite

    Ludlow Creek Lean-to

    This is 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 fairly close to several nearby villages, and only a half hour drive from the town of Norwich and less than an hour from the city of Binghamton.. The campsite is perfect for groups or individuals willing to hike in a short distance to this secluded spot. There is a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on an heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek. The hike in from the trailhead to the north is relatively short, and recommended for easy overnight access. The hike is longer coming in from the south. The campsite is maintained by local volunteer members of the Bull Thistle Hiking Club, http://www.bullthistlehiking.org/p/about-us.html, which is a member chapter of the Finger Lakes Trail Conference http://www.fingerlakestrail.org/ If camping here, be sure to pack in water and plan to pack out garbage and leave no trace. Detailed maps of this trail section can be found in the Finger Lakes Trail East Passport Guide, see map E07, p. 21 at http://www.fltconference.org/trail/files/3814/0154/4940/Passport_East_View.pdf, or visit the interactive trail map at https://fltconference.org/trails/P/TrailConditionMaps/Interactive/Seg_Cat.html?Vifw#"

  • Gavin T.
    Oct. 23, 2017

    Blueberry Patch Campground — Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

    Simple

    The only Finger Lakes National Forest designated campground, Blueberry Patch offers a secluded experience in the heart of this sometimes overlooked beautiful geographic region in the State of New York. This campground offers a simple experience, with fire rings and picnic tables at each site and seems to accommodate just tent and small campers. Vault toilets available. On a week day in early summer, 3 of the 9 campsites we’re occupied. Can see it filling up on weekends. Enjoy!

  • Oleńka S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2023

    Bowman Lake State Park Campground

    Woodsy, pet friendly, and private

    We booked this as our first real camping trip with our new trailer, can’t recommend that for everyone lol, but we had a lovely time.

    We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work. There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away.

    This is a great spot for tent camping, so if that’s your vibe this place is perfect. We had a lot of tree cover so we didn’t even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day. There are a lot of mosquitoes, but with some bug spray and a couple thermacell mosquito repellents, we were comfortable the whole time. I loved cooking over the fire, the pit had a cinder block wall around it to set a grate on and block the wind. We had a lot of privacy because the campgrounds next to us were empty, but even if there were people nearby there was about 20-30 ft between our site and the next.

    The lake is small but calm and great for kayaking. There is a little “beach” there for swimming, but know that it’s a soft lake bottom further out.

    We really liked it here and booked another visit in August.

  • Sophie D.
    Oct. 5, 2016

    Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    Friendly, beautiful, and well organized

    I ended a two-day backpacking trek through the Finger Lakes National Forest at Watkins Glen. After grunting all the way up the long hill to the campground, I checked in with a wonderful and helpful employee. She gave me all the information about the campground and park that I could ever want, and then we laughed a little about the antics of young husky mixes (I had my dog with me on the hike). The campground is dog-friendly, provided that you have a current rabies certificate and keep him/her on leash.

    I stayed at a tent site, which has no electricity. RV sites, which cost a little more, provide electric hookups. My camp site and all the neighboring ones were clean. Water from spigots is easily accessible, as are showers and toilets.

    The campground is situated walking distance from the main attractions of the park; during the summer, a large swimming pool is a popular place to hang out with family. Hiking trails parallel the creek with beautiful falls. I was disappointed to find that dogs are not allowed on the Gorge Trail, which is closest to all of the falls.

    All in all, I loved this campground. It was a very relaxing place to spend the night.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 2, 2017

    Pharsalia Y Pond

    Pharsalia Y Pond primitive campsite

    This campsite is a hike in stop on the Finger Lakes Trail, but can also be accessed by a short walk-in from Elmer Jackson Rd, or by paddling in from the parking area in the west side of the pond. 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 (canoe or kayak only), and day hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail. You can also walk or drive along various state forest riads to several other pinds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching. From the south end if the pond is a cascade into a gorge which is the beginnings if Canasawacta Creek, which eventually flows to Norwich and the Chenango River.

    This is a primitive canpsite, 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. This would be a nice family friendly weekend destination, as well a a great stop fir through hikers. Previous campers have left the site in great shape.

    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.

    More info about the WMA can be found here: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/63889.html or http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/70693.html

    An interactive map for hiking in the area can be found here: https://fltconference.org/trails/P/TrailConditionMaps/Interactive/Seg_Cat.html?Vifw#"

    For more info and local area map, see page 15 and map E04 in the Finger Lakes Trail East passport guide:

    http://www.fltconference.org/trail/files/3814/0154/4940/Passport_East_View.pdf

  • Jama A.
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Canandaigua-Rochester KOA

    Camping near Canandaigua, New York

    Campers exploring the Canandaigua area discover a delightful mix of lakeside retreats, wooded state parks, and family-friendly RV resorts. Just minutes from downtown, Canandaigua City Park Campground offers easy access to local shops and the lakefront beach, making it a convenient base for those who want town amenities within walking distance. A short drive farther out leads to Keuka Lake State Park Campground and the privately owned Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, both of which feature spacious sites, clean facilities, and excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing on the Finger Lakes. For those seeking a quieter experience, numerous backcountry and dispersed sites are tucked into the surrounding National Forest, where campers can truly unplug—though it’s essential to bring all necessary supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill and the Stay Bristol Woodlands campground blend rustic charm with modern comforts: well-maintained restrooms, picnic shelters, and on-site hiking trails that wind through hardwood forests and offer scenic overlooks, especially stunning during fall foliage season. Travel logistics are a breeze when visitors prearrange an airport shuttle from Rochester or Syracuse airports, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to campsite. And for adventurers mapping out multiple stops across the Finger Lakes or beyond, reliable multi-city transfers provide comfortable, door-to-door rides—no rental car necessary. With its blend of waterfront sites, wooded hideaways, and nearby attractions—wineries, waterfalls, and historic villages—the Canandaigua region truly has something for every type of camper. Whether pitching a tent under the stars or rolling in with an RV, visitors will find endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Long Pond Campground

    Great for Dispersed Camping!

    I was initially worried about the other people camping here because I was almost immediately visited by them but the poor kids just needed to charge their phone so I obliged. Aside from that this was a short drive in and 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.

    There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a “leave no trace” situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage in case there is someone who drives in.

    Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site. Lots of good tinder left over from previous guests which has been helpful.

    Beautiful views, quiet, no insect issues so far, and if I had a rod and reel I wouldn’t need to worry for food at all. 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 as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe.

  • N
    Jun. 14, 2019

    Blueberry Patch Campground — Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

    Great site

    What does blueberry patch campground offer? Large camp sites with a picnic table large enough for 6 adults (squeezed together), metal fire pit with grill, large tent footprint and space for 2-3 vehicles to park.

    For you fellow hammock campers reading this don’t worry! Most of the sites are compatible for hammocks, some sites you may have to be more creative to make it work.

    You can stay at this site for up to 14 days at $15pn (bring cash). There are two bathrooms on the site and bear proof dumpsters as well. There are many locals selling fire wood bundles for $5 each so no problems getting a fire going. Lastly for this part BRING WATER. There are no water sources near the site. There is a gas station about 15 minutes away on route 79 so make sure to fill up on water and snacks.

    The site is great. Lots of amenities and individual sites. They aren’t too far away from each other so you don’t feel completely isolated but far enough away to allow some privacy. There are some trails nearby and are worth a hike.

    Neil


Guide to Jacksonville

Dispersed camping near Jacksonville, New York centers around several state forest lands with primitive accommodations. The region sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation with rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Campsites are typically accessible from May through October, though several areas remain open year-round with limited winter maintenance.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground offers excellent fishing access with multiple entry points. "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," notes Katelyn H. about the Long Pond Campground.

Trail hiking: Nature Lover's Paradise provides extensive trail access. "Nature Lover's Paradise has an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York," mentions Jake C. about this tent camping area.

Wildlife observation: The state forests contain diverse bird species and mammals. "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," reports Rose S. about her stay at Spruce Pond.

What campers like

Private camping spots: Spacing between sites offers solitude. "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want," explains Joseph S. about his experience at Empire Haven Nudist Park.

Waterfront access: Several campgrounds feature pond or lake frontage. Kevin C. describes Long Pond's features: "About 100 yards away was the public fishing dock and another camp site. There were two young men fishing there at about 7 PM."

Natural surroundings: The area's forests create immersive environments. "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views," writes Avery R. about Gardner Hill Campground.

What you should know

Limited facilities: Most tent campsites near Jacksonville require self-sufficiency. "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," reports Kevin C. about Long Pond Campground.

Access challenges: Some campsites require navigation skills. Janet R. explains about Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground: "You are on your own and should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked."

Permit requirements: Check regulations before arrival. Neil L. notes about Spruce Pond: "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens."

Tips for camping with families

Site selection guidance: Choose locations based on amenities. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, Neil L. advises: "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 do here."

Pack extra water: No potable water exists at most sites. "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster," notes Kevin C. about Long Pond.

Accessibility considerations: Limited wheelchair-friendly options exist. Janet R. observed at Long Pond: "Campsite 1 is adjacent to the handicapped fishing pier, and is supposedly an accessible campsite. Though an all terrain wheelchair could navigate from car to campsite, a regular one could not due to gravel."

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate only smaller rigs. At Upper Lisle Park, Paully B. notes: "Other than a nice place to launch the kayak in the upper river and into Dorchester lake. There is nothing here."

Power options: Few sites offer hookups. Kevin C. remarks about 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."

Leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling blocks. Janet R. comments: "While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the OnondagaTrail to access a pit toilet."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jacksonville, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jacksonville, NY is Empire Haven Nudist Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Jacksonville, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Jacksonville, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.