The state forests around Laurens, New York provide numerous rustic camping options in the Chenango County region. Most dispersed camping areas sit at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating moderately cool overnight temperatures even in summer months. The region's mix of hardwood forests and small ponds supports diverse wildlife, with campers often reporting deer, turkey, and various songbird sightings at their campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground features a large pond with multiple access points including a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock. As Katelyn H. notes, "if I had a rod and reel I wouldn't need to worry for food at all," reflecting the pond's reputation for productive fishing.
Wildlife viewing: The unique bog ecosystem at Round Pond Pharsalia Woods offers exceptional birding opportunities. Janet R. explains the site has "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."
Trail exploration: The state forests contain extensive trail networks suitable for day hiking and mountain biking. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, you'll find "miles of trails for both hiking and cross country skiing" according to local visitors, with numerous glens and stream crossings.
What campers like
Waterside camping: Several campsites provide direct water access and views. At Betty Brook Camp, Robert B. appreciates that "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots" and mentions coming to the area for decades because of its remoteness.
Solitude: Many campers value the peace and quiet of these rustic sites. Peter from Betty Brook Camp notes "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Winter accessibility: Some sites remain accessible year-round. Felix R. found that Burnt Rossman State Forest "was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires careful driving on unpaved roads. At Duck Pond Campsite, Yae U. cautions visitors to "be careful driving in the sometimes rough conditions" despite finding "surprisingly well maintained beautiful campsites."
Seasonal limitations: Winter access varies significantly by location. Joshua M. reports that Beals Pond State Forest is "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."
Amenity variations: Most sites are primitive with few or no facilities. Kevin C. observes that Long Pond "has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal" and notes that most camping spots "are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: For families needing easier access, look for roadside sites. The L. describes Westkill Camp as "right off the road. Nice and quiet. There is enough room for 2 to 3 campers. Parking across the street if it's wet."
Educational opportunities: Choose sites with nature viewing platforms or interpretive trails. Round Pond features "an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem" according to visitors, making it ideal for nature education.
Security considerations: Some locations may feel too exposed for family camping. Janet R. notes that at Long Pond, sites "are strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lack of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Only the smallest RVs and vans can access most sites. Kevin C. advises that at Fort Plain Lock 15, "The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven, situated right on the Mohawk River," making it suitable for self-contained units.
Limited hookups: No water or electric hookups exist at any of the dispersed sites. Pete V. describes Fort Plain Lock 15 as "a gravel parking lot that is easy to find a level spot in" but with no services.
Solar challenges: Dense tree cover affects solar power generation. One camper at Long Pond notes "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," suggesting alternate power sources are needed for extended stays.
