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.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lima, New York (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lima, NY

12 Photos of 8 Lima Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lima, NY

21 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

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Would Stay again

    We stayed here for 2 nights car camping. quiet and clean. spots had fire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were clean and had potable water. There were lots of horses. There are hiking trails right out of the site! would absolutely stay here again!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Free camping with amenities!

    26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren’t on top of each other. People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp. I would come back!

  • 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.

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    beautiful spots near pond or in woods

    if the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots. dispersed free LNT style. no services. would stay here again.

  • 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.


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 4.8-star rating from 13 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.