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 (20)

    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

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    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

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    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

490 Reviews of 20 Jacksonville Campgrounds



Guide to Jacksonville

Tent camping near Jacksonville, New York, offers a variety of scenic locations perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With access to beautiful landscapes and numerous amenities, campers can enjoy a memorable experience in nature.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $50

  • Back-Achers Campsites provides a peaceful setting with spacious sites and clean facilities, making it a great choice for families and groups.
  • Camp Earth Connection offers a rustic experience with a focus on nature, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Nature Lover's Paradise features a tent site surrounded by 70 acres of hiking trails, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

Local attractions to explore

Tent campers should check out the amenities

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 20 tent camping locations near Jacksonville, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.