Dispersed camping near Lansing, New York offers primitive wilderness experiences within the Finger Lakes National Forest and surrounding state forests. The region features numerous small ponds and lakes at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, creating a landscape of rolling hills and water features. Most access roads become muddy during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall, requiring vehicles with higher clearance.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Long Pond Campground, anglers find productive waters with various species. "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," notes Janet R.
Hiking access: Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed connects to extensive trail networks. "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," advises Janet R.
Wildlife viewing: Set up camp near water sources for the best animal sightings. The numerous fishing areas attract not just anglers but wildlife watchers. At Balsam Pond, one camper noted the area is "beautiful and is one of the larger state forest ponds in the area preserved in a natural state with no shoreline development other than the small campground and the public boat launch."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping offers well-spaced camping spots. "The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably... For those seeking more privacy, there are numerous secluded spots along the side roads throughout the park," writes Paulina B.
Free camping options: Most dispersed sites in the area have no fee. At Foster Pond Camping Area, Jacob D. reports, "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. Into the woods around the Lake you'll find free dispersed camping."
Scenic water access: Several campgrounds offer water access directly from campsites. At Long Pond Campground, Katelyn H. 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."
What you should know
Site maintenance varies: Some campgrounds receive more attention than others. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, Janet R. observed, "Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all. Some have official steel fire rings, some have stone fire rings that are crumbling."
Water access planning: No drinking water is available at most sites. "You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage," notes Janet R. about Morgan Hill State Forest.
GPS coordinates confusion: Double-check your navigation before heading out. For Sugar Hill Recreation Area, Joel M. warns, "The coordinates are wrong. Search for sugar hill fire tower and you'll find it. (42.3868868, -77.0025425)."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers some ADA features. "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," reports Janet R.
Off-peak camping: For families wanting more space and quiet, weekdays are ideal. At Sugar Hill Recreation Area, Paulina B. noted, "During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience."
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from main entrances for better family experiences. At Long Pond, Kevin C. observed, "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Tips from RVers
Smaller RVs only: Most dispersed camping areas have limited space for large rigs. At Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, Joel M. notes, "This campground is basically a big field surrounded by the forest. The sites are really nice, each one has a table with benches and a fire place. You can drive your car in here (gravel road)."
Solar charging considerations: Some sites offer better sun exposure for power needs. At Sugar Hill Recreation Area, Andrew S. shared, "Very well maintained. Some sites are close and some are spread out. 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."
Limited hookups and services: RVers should prepare for self-contained camping. Kevin C. at Long Pond Campground found, "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers... Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
