State forest lands near Liverpool, New York offer no-cost camping options with minimal amenities and specific regulations. The Morgan Hill, Pharsalia Woods, and Winona state forests contain designated primitive sites requiring campers to be self-sufficient. Most locations mandate staying 150 feet from water sources and proper waste management when utilizing these rustic camping areas.
What to do
Fishing access at multiple ponds: Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods State Forest provides peaceful fishing opportunities in a unique bog ecosystem. A Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed visitor noted, "There is a parking area just off the Plymouth Reservoir Rd that allows you to access a network of trails that traverse the state preserve around the unique Round Pond and adjacent bog."
Hiking on interconnected trails: The extensive trail network in Morgan Hill State Forest connects to the Onondaga Trail and North Country Scenic Trail. A camper at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground shared, "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!"
Kayaking on secluded waters: Several forest ponds allow non-motorized watercraft. "You can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail," explains one visitor to the area.
What campers like
Uncrowded, quiet camping spots: Primitive sites throughout these state forests offer seclusion from typical campground noise. A camper at Winona State Forest reported, "Overall a good free quiet place to camp," while another noted, "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks."
Accessible forest roads: Most state forest lands feature a network of maintained roads allowing easier navigation. One visitor to Towsley Road Dispersed Camping mentioned it was "nice place to sleep. good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road. when you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife observation. "One amazing aspect at this site is 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," states a Round Pond visitor.
What you should know
Limited site markings: Many dispersed camping areas have minimal signage. At Winona State Forest, a camper warned, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Pack in all supplies: No services exist at most sites. "This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind," explains a Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite user.
Navigation challenges: Forest road conditions vary seasonally. A visitor to Pharsalia Woods State Forest observed, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings specific challenges. One camper noted, "The woods are beautiful and the trails are well developed, but also be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer."
Tips for camping with families
Download maps before arrival: Cell service is unreliable throughout these forests. A Morgan Hill State Forest visitor advises, "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."
Choose sites with established fire rings: Some areas have pre-existing fire rings making campsite setup easier. At Winona State Forest, a camper mentioned, "While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added."
Verify road conditions: Access roads can become difficult after rain. "While the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really 'dispersed' campsites," explains one visitor about Morgan Hill Forest areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-suitable locations: Most dispersed sites accommodate tents only. "The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail," notes a Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed visitor about the limited parking and turning areas.
Prepare for uneven parking: Forest road pull-offs rarely offer level surfaces. A camper observed, "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem."
Plan for complete self-sufficiency: No water or waste disposal facilities exist. One visitor advised, "You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage."
