Primitive tent camping sites surround Minoa, New York within forested state lands across Onondaga and Chenango counties. Most locations sit between 1,200-1,800 feet elevation, creating moderately cool overnight temperatures even in summer. These sites typically require campers to bring all supplies including water, as most don't offer amenities beyond basic fire rings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bear Wallow Pond in Pharsalia Woods offers quiet shoreline fishing in an undeveloped setting. A reviewer notes, "I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking."
Trail hiking: Access the extensive Finger Lakes Trail system from multiple primitive sites. At Hall Island State Forest, campers can explore routes along the Salmon River Reservoir. One visitor mentioned, "The draw for my friends and I at the time was a jump off the nearby Redfield bridge and swim in the Salmon River."
Kayaking: Several ponds near camping areas permit non-motorized watercraft. A camper at Y Pond described it as "deep and clear and stocked with brook trout, and the campsite on the east side of the pond is in an idyllic setting with good camping, fishing (canoe or kayak only), and day hikes."
What campers like
Accessible primitive sites: Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead offers drive-up accessibility with surprisingly well-developed facilities. A reviewer explains, "There are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
Natural soundscapes: Nighttime brings abundant wildlife sounds at many campsites. At Spruce Pond, one camper mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Proximity to water features: Most tent sites near Minoa position campers close to ponds, streams, or reservoirs. At Cross Lake Park Campgrounds, a visitor reported, "Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
What you should know
Water supply planning: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. A reviewer of Bear Wallow Pond cautions, "This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind."
Permit requirements: Some locations require camping permits obtained in advance. For example, Y Pond camping "requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095... allow one week for permit to be processed."
Seasonal toilet availability: Portable toilets appear only during peak season at most locations. A Spruce Pond visitor noted in April, "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites with gentle terrain for easier family setup. One camper at Stoneys Pineville Campground recommended, "Friendly hosts and great place on the river," making it suitable for families who want fishing access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer excellent bird watching, particularly around dawn and dusk. A visitor to the Pharsalia Woods area suggested, "You can also walk or drive along various state forest roads to several other ponds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching."
Tent size considerations: Bring appropriate-sized tents for available spaces. A visitor at Hall Island State Forest mentioned there's "not much to them, no facilities or running water, and certainly not as scenic as going up to the Adirondacks; but seemed a decent option for a quick weekend trip."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive sites near Minoa accommodate tents only, with few suitable for RVs. At Nature Lover's Paradise, the tent site offers "70 acres of hiking trails" but no RV accommodations or hookups.
Off-grid preparation: RVers staying at state forest locations must prepare for boondocking without services. Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead campground offers "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot" but "NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground."
Alternative camping options: When seeking the best tent camping near Minoa, New York with more amenities, consider established campgrounds slightly further away. One camper at Stoneys Pineville noted, "We have been out three years consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time what a great place to stay."
