Tent camping near Martinsburg, New York provides access to several state forests within a 30-mile radius, offering both secluded and accessible primitive camping experiences. Most sites in this Tug Hill region sit at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet, creating distinctive seasonal conditions with heavy winter snowfall and mild summers. During spring months, many forest access roads remain muddy or partially washed out, requiring high-clearance vehicles for campsite access.
What to do
Seasonal fishing opportunities: Hall Island State Forest campsites provide direct access to Salmon River Reservoir for fishing enthusiasts. "It's a short drive into town and to the local convenience store, which offers shower facilities and bathrooms for a fee," notes Rachel P., who recommends the area particularly for fishing activities despite the minimal amenities.
Winter recreation base camp: Winona Forest CCC Camp serves as a four-season recreation hub, especially for winter activities. "This is a hub for several snow mobile, cross country ski, and snow shoe trails. Several folks visited on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the last bit of the snow," reports Quade S., who appreciated the quiet trails despite the lack of running water or electricity.
Kayaking and water exploration: Francis Lake offers tent campers excellent water access without boat traffic concerns. "A little stream turns under a few footbridges and out to francis lake," explains Elizabeth B., describing the hidden water access point where hikers enter for camping.
What campers like
Morning lakeside views: North Lake Reservoir features 32 sites circling the water, with walk-in spots directly on the shoreline. "We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake," writes Ashlee C., who appreciated the remote setting while having enough space for both car camping and tent setup.
Private water access: Alger Island Adirondack Preserve provides boat-in only camping with a unique island experience. "The island itself is so serene and beautiful," says Sarah B., who kayaked gear to the campsite and valued the natural separation from mainland activities despite occasional noise from nearby lake recreation.
Self-sufficient camping: Primitive sites at Winona State Forest offer true no-frills camping experiences. "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks," reports Kevin C., who found the location "quiet and peaceful" despite rain during his stay.
What you should know
Site identification challenges: Finding unmarked primitive sites can require extra scouting. "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp," explains Thomas E. about Winona State Forest, noting that despite wet firewood, it remained "a good free quiet place to camp."
Navigation confusion: Several forest roads in the region have similar names or poor signage. "Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around," advises J B. regarding access to North Lake Reservoir Campground sites.
Shower availability: While most primitive sites lack facilities, nearby towns offer paid options. The convenience store near Hall Island State Forest provides shower facilities for a fee, though Rachel notes she "wasn't terribly impressed" with the quality.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Adirondack Mennonite Camping Associates offers structured camping programs for families beyond typical primitive camping. "Weekend and week long programming for youth and families, or site rental of cabins and platform tents is available, as well as day use access to the beach and high ropes course," explains Elizabeth B., calling it "a great way to access a beautiful area in a way customized for your family."
Wildlife viewing: Hall Island State Forest campsites provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities at dawn and dusk. Thomas E. notes that despite visiting "when it was cold snowing and raining," the weather "didn't take away from the campsite at all," particularly appreciating the water views and accessibility for most ability levels.
Self-contained camping prep: Pack ample fresh water and supplies, as most sites offer no services. Quade S. emphasizes that "if you camp here, you need to be self sufficient" but mentions "there is a dollar general about 15 minutes away if you need some supplies."
Tips from RVers
Small RV accessibility: While most sites accommodate tents only, some areas can handle compact RVs with careful planning. "I took my small RV here on its maiden voyage. I found this spot on Google maps just pouring over imagery," shares Quade about Stoneys Pineville Campground, where campers report "friendly hosts and great place on the river."
Limited hookup options: RVers should prepare for primarily dry camping in the Martinsburg area. Eric F. has stayed at Stoneys "three years consecutively for salmon fishing" despite the limited hookup options, calling it "a great place to stay" for anglers.
Seasonal road conditions: Spring thaws create challenging access for larger vehicles on forest roads. Many roads require four-wheel drive after heavy rains or during early season, with RV access often limited to established campgrounds rather than primitive sites.
