State forests near Manlius, New York provide free dispersed camping opportunities within an hour's drive of the city. Located in the Central New York region with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet, these forests offer cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Most dispersed sites in this region experience seasonal access limitations due to snow cover from late November through early April.
What to do
Fishing at Long Pond: Long Pond Campground features multiple access points for anglers, including a boat launch with parking and dock, a carry-in kayak access, and a handicapped-accessible fishing pier. According to Kevin C., "We came into the camping area on a Sunday and found site 7 available. While this is next to the road, it is also within 40 yards of the only potta potty in the park. About 100 yards away was the public fishing dock and another camp site."
Hiking the gorge: Bucks Brook State Forest offers hiking opportunities along a scenic gorge. "Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike on in the area; the Bucks Brook Forest Road follows a series of small waterfalls at the bottom of the gorge," notes reviewer Janet R.
Kayaking on pristine ponds: Several forest ponds offer quiet paddling experiences with minimal shoreline development. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, "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."
What campers like
Accessible fishing platforms: Some dispersed camping areas feature accessible facilities. At Long Pond, "three are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1."
Privacy between sites: Despite being free camping near Manlius, many sites offer good separation. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond Campground: "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed features "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. You can also access the bog pond here if using kayaks or canoes."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some forest access roads have minimal maintenance. At Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed, "the road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road... the whole road in is a tough ride."
Camping registration requirements: Some sites require sign-in at information kiosks. At Round Pond, "the parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem. You need to sign in at the kiosk, but otherwise there are no permits needed and no fees."
No cell service in many areas: Service varies by location and carrier. One camper at Long Pond noted: "T-Mobile service has been exceptional," while another reported "no phone signal." At other forest locations, there's virtually no reliable service, making advance planning critical.
Tips for camping with families
Best locations for kids: Choose areas with amenities and easier access. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers more developed sites than typical dispersed camping: "There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
Safety considerations: Some sites have challenging terrain or access issues. Janet R. notes about Morgan Hill State Forest trails: "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."
Wildlife precautions: Ticks are common in this region, especially during warmer months. "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 from RVers
Small trailer compatibility: Most sites accommodate only compact trailers. At Long Pond, Kevin C. notes: "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Solar power limitations: Dense tree cover affects solar charging capability. "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," making self-contained power solutions necessary for longer stays at Towsley Road Dispersed Camping.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Look for pull-offs along forest roads rather than designated camping areas. Noah D. says about Towsley Road: "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."
