Dispersed camping opportunities near Machias, New York provide outdoor enthusiasts with access to the rolling hills and mixed forests characteristic of the Allegheny Plateau region. The elevation in this area ranges between 1,600-2,300 feet, creating varied terrain for camping and outdoor activities. Winter camping requires preparation as temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March with significant snowfall common.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Palmers Pond State Forest offers excellent beaver watching opportunities throughout the day. According to one camper, "I drove out from Wisconsin and was the only one there. Threw up the tentsile tent over looking the pond on the south side. What a wonderful way to wake up" (Palmers Pond State Forest).
Fishing access: Multiple ponds and small lakes in the area provide fishing opportunities during warmer months. The Windfall Ponds area contains several small bodies of water accessible via forest service roads, though facilities are minimal and road conditions can deteriorate after rain.
Hiking trails: The Finger Lakes Trail passes through Boyce State Forest, offering connections to longer regional trail systems. A recent visitor noted, "If you walk/hike 1/2 mile you will find a lean-to with fire pit and privy."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Sites around Palmers Pond are particularly popular for their water views. A visitor mentioned, "The site was very nice. Clean and well maintained. I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back."
Secluded creek-side camping: Camp Seneca provides designated sites adjacent to flowing water. One camper reported, "We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that we did not get very wet when it rains."
Alternative forest sites: When lakeside spots are occupied, interior forest sites provide good alternatives. A recent visitor to Palmers Pond advised, "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."
What you should know
Access limitations: Multiple state forests have restricted access points or seasonal road closures. For Palmers Pond, reviewers consistently warn: "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 kind of hard to find."
Seasonal conditions: Wet conditions significantly impact accessibility at Ossian State Forest. A visitor noted, "Only a couple of the primitive sites are accessible and most of the trails are choked with growth or blocked with fallen trees. The roads are a little rough also."
Facility availability: Free camping options generally lack amenities. At Boyce State Forest, visitors should expect primitive conditions: "If roughing it is your thing this is primitive tent sites on a small pond."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Sites with flat terrain provide safer camping for families with young children. At Palmers Pond, several areas feature "Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in."
Creek exploration: English Hill State Forest contains small streams suitable for children to wade and explore, though parents should supervise closely as facilities are minimal and cell service unreliable.
Weather preparation: Tree cover varies significantly between sites. At Camp Seneca, one camper observed, "The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that we did not get very wet when it rains."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest roads can accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger rigs. At Palmers Pond, despite being listed as big-rig friendly, the narrow access roads are better suited for vehicles under 25 feet.
Site selection: RV campers should arrive early to secure level sites. One visitor to McCarthy Hills Forest noted the limited number of level pull-offs suitable for trailers or motorhomes along the main forest roads.
Road conditions: Unpaved forest roads deteriorate quickly after rainfall. A camper at Boyce State Forest warned, "Trail was more of a stream than a trail. You'll spend more time beside the trail than actually on it."
