Best Dispersed Camping near Lima, NY

Lima, NY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Lima is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Lima, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lima, New York (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lima, NY

10 Photos of 8 Lima Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lima, NY

18 Reviews of 8 Lima Campgrounds


  • Lylah H.
    May. 17, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great spot, follow the map around

    I believe it’s still off season so the spot with all the facilities wasn’t open. We used the map on the state forest website. But most spots have a privy/port o potty. We found the map on the website helpful because there are spots all over. Site 28 did have a sign about not awaking “butch and big daddy” as two young women we decided we didn’t want to stick around and meet them. There was a privy at 35 which was nice. The site by the pond was really cute with a privy but a walk in (believe it was 37)!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2019

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Favorite place to camp

    No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp

  • Brittany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2022

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great location

    We stayed here during an anniversary trip to the Finger Lakes. Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers. Great location!

  • Lizzy K.
    Oct. 29, 2021

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Love this place!

    Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!

  • M
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Perfect campsite

    Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake. Fire pits, a table, and parking area are in place but nothing else. Lots of beavers to watch throughout the day.

  • A
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Excellent Free Site

    No show but decent bathrooms. I spent a night at Watkins Glen the only advantage was the shower. But you can wash up well here. You can stay horses here, each site has a fire pit and it feels safe.

  • Sydney M.
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Pretty but hard to find

    The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road. There are not any lights to show the sign so it’s kinda hard to find. The pond was dried up when we got there so that sad kind of a bummer. Lots of camping along the road and around the pond. Nice quiet spot

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Well worth it

    I drove in from out of state and I absolutely adore this campground! Will be returning, I found a lovely spot tucked into a back corner and has the most relaxing weekend.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Amazing campsite!!

    Stopped in to "ride out a rain storm." After surviving the night, we discovered all the amenities. Free garbage service daily, Water faucets were placed all over the campground. There is a Forest Fire Lookout Tower next to the bathrooms.

    Camp sites are disbursed so you don't feel crowded or squeezed for space.

    Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night.

    The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence.


Guide to Lima

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lima, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lima, New York

  • When visiting Ossian State Forest on Scoville Road, be prepared for a rustic experience, as some trails may be overgrown and access to certain sites can be limited.
  • For a quieter experience, consider Palmers Pond State Forest, where you can find beautiful, grassy spots that offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
  • If you're traveling with pets, Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping is a great choice, as it welcomes furry friends and provides ample space for them to roam.

Enjoying outdoor activities while free camping near Lima

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails available at Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite, where you can explore the scenic surroundings and enjoy breathtaking views from the fire tower.
  • Horseback riding is a popular activity at Stewart Road Horse Camp, making it an ideal spot for equestrian campers looking to hit the trails.
  • Fishing opportunities abound at Palmers Pond State Forest, where you can cast a line and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

Dispersed campers should check out Sugar Hill Recreation Area

  • The Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping offers a variety of designated sites, ensuring that campers can find the perfect spot to suit their needs, whether they prefer sun or shade.
  • With clean facilities and well-maintained grounds, this area provides a comfortable camping experience, making it a favorite among visitors.
  • Located just a short drive from Watkins Glen, Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping serves as an excellent base for exploring local attractions while enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lima, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lima, NY is Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite with a 4.7-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lima, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Lima, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.