The state forests surrounding McGraw, New York offer numerous primitive camping opportunities within a region characterized by rolling hills, hardwood forests, and small ponds at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet. These public lands feature varied terrain with mixed northern hardwood forests dominated by maple, beech, and hemlock trees. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer nights remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Fishing access points: Long Pond Campground provides multiple fishing locations including "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." According to reviews, the pond is "very productive for fishermen" with trout, bass, and tiger muskies.
Boardwalk hiking: Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods 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." The boardwalk allows visitors to experience the unique bog ecosystem without damaging sensitive vegetation.
Fire tower climbing: At Sugar Hill Fire Tower, visitors can climb the restored historic fire tower located near the central camping area. One camper noted "The view from the tower is pretty nice too!" while another mentioned it's located "next to the bathrooms" making it easily accessible for all campers.
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Several campgrounds are notably quieter during weekdays. At Sugar Hill Fire Tower, a camper observed "weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night." This pattern holds true across most primitive camping areas in the region.
Well-spaced sites: Long Pond Campground offers "large and shaded and well spaced from each other" sites according to one reviewer. Another camper added that sites are "strung out along the shoreline... each with its own driveway" providing privacy between camping spots.
Wildlife viewing: The undeveloped nature of these areas provides excellent wildlife watching opportunities. One camper at Round Pond mentioned it's "an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration." The area's wetlands and mixed forests support diverse bird species and other wildlife.
Horse-friendly options: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Recreation Area accommodates equestrians with dedicated facilities. One reviewer noted "You can stay horses here" and mentioned "seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence," making this a rare option for campers traveling with horses.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads to many sites have limited maintenance. The road to Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed is described as "in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road." Several reviewers recommend higher clearance vehicles for certain access points.
Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic services. A camper at Long Pond noted: "There is no water or garbage services at this site." Bring all supplies including drinking water as most areas have no potable water sources except Sugar Hill Fire Tower which has "water faucets placed all over the campground."
Tick awareness: Ticks are prevalent in these forests, particularly in spring and early summer. A reviewer at Whaupaunaucau State Forest warned visitors to "beware of ticks, they are invading the region" while still recommending the forest for its "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams."
Trail marking inconsistency: Navigation can be challenging on some trail networks. A Morgan Hill Forest reviewer advised: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Sugar Hill amenities: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Recreation Area stands out for family camping with "flushing toilets and trash and recycling on site" plus water faucets throughout the campground. A reviewer noted, "Each site has a fire pit and it feels safe," making it ideal for families new to primitive camping.
Accessible options: Some sites offer accessibility features but with limitations. Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead has "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits" that are "supposedly ADA accessible" though a reviewer cautions there are "NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites."
Educational opportunities: Round Pond provides learning experiences through its "info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem." The boardwalk system allows children to safely explore wetland environments while minimizing environmental impact.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most primitive sites have limited space for larger vehicles. At Long Pond Campground, "campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer." Another reviewer noted "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Solar challenges: Dense forest canopy impacts solar charging capabilities. One Long Pond camper mentioned, "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," suggesting RVers relying on solar should plan alternative power sources.
Seasonal road closures: Winter access is often restricted or impossible. Check with the DEC before planning off-season trips as most forest roads receive no winter maintenance and may be impassable or officially closed during snow and mud seasons.
