The forests surrounding Killawog, New York offer primitive camping opportunities within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and small glacial ponds. Elevations in the region typically range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet, creating a varied terrain for hiking and exploration. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, while summer highs generally reach the 80s with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Fishing excursions: Morgan Hill State Forest's ponds provide productive fishing spots with various fish species. A visitor to Long Pond Campground noted the popularity among locals: "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1."
Hiking trail networks: The Onondaga Trail branch of the North Country Scenic Trail offers extensive hiking options. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, you can "directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail." One camper mentioned, "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!"
Birdwatching opportunities: State forests near Killawog contain diverse bird habitats. A camper at Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed described "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration."
What campers like
Waterfront site access: Several locations provide direct access to ponds or streams. One camper at Long Pond Campground was pleased 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."
Seclusion without isolation: The primitive camping near Killawog offers solitude while maintaining safety. A visitor mentioned that at Long Pond, "Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site."
Varied terrain for exploration: The mix of forests, hills, and water features creates diverse landscapes. A camper at Whaupaunaucau State Forest noted the "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many forest roads are unpaved and may become challenging. A visitor to Beals Pond State Forest reported, "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Self-sufficient camping required: Campers need to bring all supplies. At Long Pond Campground, a camper noted, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal." Another mentioned it's "a 'leave no trace' situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage."
Navigation challenges: Trail networks can be complex and confusing. A visitor to Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed recommended, "Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map."
Tips for camping with families
Check site spacing and privacy: Some locations offer better family-friendly spacing. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, "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."
Consider proximity to facilities: Few sites offer amenities. A camper at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site noted, "this truly is primitive camping, no picnic tables, no lean-to shelter like at some other area FTL campsites, no water source other than the brook (you should filter it even though the source is a spring near by), no latrines, no fire grates."
Plan activities around water features: Ponds provide kid-friendly recreation. A visitor to Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed mentioned, "You can also access the bog pond here if using kayaks or canoes. It is like a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!"
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most rustic camping areas near Killawog have space constraints for larger vehicles. At Long Pond Campground, a reviewer noted, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Solar power challenges: Dense forest canopy affects solar charging. Many campsites throughout the state forests are described as having "mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers," which limits solar panel effectiveness.
Road access considerations: Forest roads require careful navigation. At Long Pond, "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," indicating larger RVs may struggle with access and positioning in these primitive camping areas.
