Morgan Hill State Forest offers dispersed camping opportunities across its 5,000+ acres, with primitive campsites requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Located 12 miles south of Jamesville, the forest provides both established campgrounds like Spruce Pond and dispersed backcountry options. The highest elevation points reach about 2,000 feet, offering scenic views and challenging terrain for hikers looking for the best places to camp near Jamesville, New York.
What to do
Hiking trails and lakes: Green Lakes State Park features extensive trail networks around its distinctive glacial lakes. "There are 2 Great Lakes to hike around with awesome views. Fishing and boat rental if you want to be closer to the water," notes Kelly J. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Swimming beaches: Most campgrounds with lakes offer supervised swimming areas during summer months. At Verona Beach State Park, "Swimming is available at the large beach. You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore," according to Cindy H. about Verona Beach State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Several state forests contain scenic waterfalls accessible via hiking trails. "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!" shares Janet R. about Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed.
What campers like
Unique water features: The glacial lakes in this region have distinct characteristics. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," reports Kenneth S. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Family amenities: Most established campgrounds offer playgrounds and recreational facilities. "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," mentions Sheri S.
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites for those seeking quieter experiences. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, "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. Great trees for hammock camping though," advises Neil L.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: The camping season typically runs May through October, with most facilities closing by mid-October. "We camped at Spruce Pond primitve campsites. 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," explains Janet R.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, "During the main season, this place is nuts! You'll definitely need to plan ahead and make reservations if you plan to be here on the weekends during the silly season. Bonus: Prices are lower on weekdays and you get a reduced rate for your second night, too."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. "Camp facilities were clean and well maintained. However, we were the only tent campers around and the RV groups were loud late and early. We struggled to sleep because of the noise. Tent campers beware," notes Kayleigh K. about Fillmore Glen State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several parks offer kid-friendly swimming areas and boat rentals. "Camped here twice now. Love it, beach is great. You cannot bring your own kayaks you have to rent. Fun hiking area, the water is gorgeous. Great playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," advises Sara H. about Green Lakes State Park.
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature updated play equipment. At Oneida Shores County Park, "The play area is giant and includes outdoor music play. Thanks drivers village for that. Beach area is nice and guarded," reports Zen W.
Bathroom facilities: Family-friendly restrooms vary by location. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," shares Sheri S. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between campgrounds. At Verona Beach, "There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," notes Cindy H.
Site layouts: RV site configurations differ significantly across campgrounds. At The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, "Sitesare spacious, lots to do for kids, facilities are new and clean," according to Keri.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd. Very well kept up, bathrooms are very modern and well stocked," shares Michael O. about The Villages RV Park.
